Ridgway State Park is a year-round destination for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone seeking Colorado’s natural beauty. Located just a few minutes from the town of Ridgway, the park offers everything from serene hiking trails to sparkling lake waters — all in one breathtaking location.
- Daily vehicle park pass: $10
- Keep Colorado Wild Pass (Colorado residents): $29/year through the DMV
Things to Do
- Hiking & Biking: Over 15 miles of trail wind along the water and through high-desert hillsides — all with spectacular views of the San Juans.
- Fishing & Water Sports: Cast your line into the reservoir or the river — fishing is available year-round. During warmer months, enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and swimming.
- Wildlife & Birding: The park is home to elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and over 140 bird species.
Camping
Ridgway State Park has three well-maintained campgrounds — Elk Ridge, Dakota Terraces, and Pa-Co-Chu-Puk — and almost 300 campsites.
- Camp Types: Walk-in tent sites, trailer/RV sites with hookups, ADA campsites, and three yurts with kitchenettes.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, showers, seasonal laundry facilities, water, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Park Entrances & Areas
- Dutch Charlie: This is the park's main entrance. It is home to the visitor center (open daily, year-round), swimbeach, boat ramp and two of the park’s three campgrounds: Elk Ridge and Dakota Terraces.
- Pa-Co-Chu-Puk: Located below the dam, this entrance has a campground (Pa-Co-Chu-Puk) with full utility hookups, walk-in tent camping, and a large group event facility. There is also fishing, picnic sites, and several miles of trail.
- Dallas Creek: This is the closest entrance to Ridgway. It is located near the confluence of the Uncompahgre River and Dallas Creek and has lots of wildlife. It is popular with paddleboarders and kayakers.
Undoubtedly one of the nicest state parks in Colorado if not the entire US. Incredible park staff, too. Beautiful and well maintained park thanks to the hard working and dedicated professionals at Ridgway State Park. You won't be disappointed if you visit.
