Deweese-Dye Reservoir is a scenic irrigation reservoir in the Wet Mountain Valley of Custer County, surrounded by open ranchland with views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the west and the Wet Mountains to the east. Located just a few miles northwest of Westcliffe, this reservoir draws anglers, campers, and visitors who appreciate the remote, uncrowded character of one of Colorado's least-populated counties.
Fishing at Deweese-Dye Reservoir targets a mix of species in waters that hold up well through the summer months. Visitors report beautiful scenery as a backdrop to their fishing sessions, with the reservoir's open shoreline providing easy bank access around much of the perimeter. The reservoir does experience algae blooms during warmer months, which can affect water clarity and fishing conditions, but blooms vary in severity from year to year. Checking current conditions before a trip is worthwhile during peak summer.
Primitive camping is available around the reservoir, making it a solid base for multi-day visits to the Wet Mountain Valley. There are no developed campgrounds with hookups, but dispersed camping spots with enough room for tents and smaller rigs are plentiful. Public restrooms are available at multiple locations around the reservoir, though showers are not. All access roads are unpaved dirt, so clearance vehicles handle the approach more comfortably, especially after rain.
The Wet Mountain Valley surrounding Deweese-Dye Reservoir is one of the more stunning pastoral landscapes in southern Colorado, with hay meadows, cattle ranches, and the jagged Sangre de Cristo peaks filling the western horizon. The town of Westcliffe offers basic services, fuel, and dining within a short drive. Deweese-Dye Reservoir serves as a quiet, scenic fishing and camping destination where the pace is slow, the views are wide, and the crowds stay away — a solid pick for visitors looking to explore the less-traveled corners of Colorado's mountain valleys.