Rifle Gap Reservoir is a scenic state park reservoir in Garfield County, Colorado, situated in a striking canyon roughly forty minutes north of the town of Rifle along the Western Slope. The blue-green water set against red canyon walls makes it one of the most photogenic fishing and boating destinations in western Colorado. Managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the reservoir offers camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and paddling within a well-maintained state park that draws visitors year-round, including ice fishing anglers during winter months.
Fishing at Rifle Gap Reservoir produces impressive catches, with the lake holding northern pike, trout, and walleye. Anglers describe landing massive pike and note that the reservoir rewards persistent effort, with some visitors encouraging catch and release to maintain the trophy fishery. Boat fishing provides the best access to productive water, though bank fishing and kayak fishing are both viable. Ice fishing draws crowds during winter, with visitors reporting busy conditions on the frozen surface though catch rates can be slow on some days. A concrete boat ramp provides launch access for motorized boats, pontoons, and other watercraft.
Swimming at Rifle Gap Reservoir centers on a designated swim beach that offers one of the few sandy shoreline areas in the region. The water temperature is surprisingly comfortable during summer months, making it a genuine swimming destination rather than just a quick dip. However, water levels fluctuate significantly, and during low-water years the beach area can recede to cracked mud with a mucky waterline. Life jackets are mandatory and strictly enforced by park rangers, with reviewers warning that fines for violations are expensive and aggressively pursued. Visiting on clear, warm days is recommended since the altitude makes swimming uncomfortable under cloud cover.
Boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing are all popular on the reservoir. Motorized boats including pontoons are allowed, and the calm water on windless mornings creates ideal paddling conditions. Afternoon winds pick up frequently and can make kayaking and paddleboarding difficult, so an early start around nine in the morning is recommended for paddle sports. The clear, clean water and canyon scenery make paddling here a visual treat even on short outings.
Camping at Rifle Gap State Park includes maintained campground sites near the reservoir. At least one site offers shower facilities, and clean restrooms with running water and toilet paper are available throughout the park. Campsites cost around twenty-eight dollars per night for tent sites, plus a twenty-dollar vehicle access fee. Sites are described as clean and flat but closely spaced, which limits privacy between neighbors. Cell service is spotty in the campground but available near the reservoir dam.
The surrounding area adds value to any Rifle Gap visit. Rifle Falls State Park sits nearby with its impressive triple waterfall, and a fish hatchery and golf course are both accessible along the scenic canyon road leading to the reservoir. Hiking opportunities exist within the state park, and the historical canyon drive itself is worth the trip. Day-use picnic areas with tables provide spots for families who want a shorter visit without camping overnight.
Visitors should arrive early during July and August, as afternoon temperatures climb and winds increase. Water levels have been notably low in recent years, affecting both the swim beach and boat ramp accessibility. Litter from other visitors is an ongoing concern, particularly beer cans and plastic waste left around campsites. Despite these issues, Rifle Gap Reservoir remains a well-rounded recreation destination that combines fishing, swimming, and boating in a canyon setting that rivals anywhere on the Western Slope.