Beaver Lake

Beaver Lake is a small, serene alpine lake nestled along the Silver Jack Reservoir and Owl Creek Pass road in Gunnison County, Colorado. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery that visitors describe as a postcard around every turn, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape for campers, paddlers, and anglers looking to disconnect from the crowds and reconnect with Colorado's backcountry beauty.

The lake sits within the Uncompahgre National Forest and features crystal-clear water that draws kayakers and paddleboarders throughout the summer months. Swimming is popular here during warmer weather, with visitors enjoying the refreshing alpine water against a backdrop of dramatic ridgelines. Fishing at Beaver Lake is decent though not exceptional, making it a good option for casual anglers who want to wet a line between hikes. The surrounding area offers endless hiking opportunities in multiple directions, so you can explore for days without ever needing to drive anywhere.

Camping at Beaver Lake centers on a small U.S. Forest Service campground with roughly 15 sites positioned right along the water's edge, offering open views of the lake from your campsite. This is a rustic, no-frills campground with vault toilets but no hookups, showers, or other developed facilities. Free-range cattle roam the area, which adds to the backcountry character but means watching your step around camp. Bear activity has been reported, so proper food storage is essential.

Be prepared for aggressive mosquitoes, especially after rain. Bug spray is a must from June through August. The best time to visit Beaver Lake is mid-summer through early fall, with Labor Day weekend being a popular choice for families. The area can get muddy following heavy rainfall, so plan accordingly if you are visiting during the monsoon season.

Beaver Lake makes an excellent base camp for exploring the broader Owl Creek Pass area. The scenic drive alone is worth the trip, and the combination of accessible camping, calm paddling water, and unlimited hiking trails makes this an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quieter alternative to the more heavily visited lakes in the Gunnison Valley.