Williams Reservoir is a secluded mountain impoundment in Hinsdale County near Pagosa Springs, set deep within the national forest and well off the beaten path. With a 4.8-star rating and consistent praise for its untouched beauty, this reservoir rewards visitors who make the dirt-road drive with peaceful water, excellent fishing, and some of the most photogenic scenery in southwest Colorado.
Fishing is productive at Williams Reservoir from both boat and shore, though boat fishing tends to outperform bank angling. The reservoir holds trout, and the outlet stream below the dam provides additional fishing opportunities with visible trout in the current. Summer is the busiest season, but the reservoir still stays far less crowded than destinations closer to major highways. The combination of lake and stream fishing gives anglers variety without needing to drive between spots.
A roughly five-mile hiking trail circles the reservoir, and reviewers describe it as an easy walk with a few sections where loose soil requires careful footing. The trail occasionally splits into parallel paths but always reconnects. One notable feature: hikers will need to cross a stream at one point along the loop. The trail offers continuous views of the water and surrounding mountains, making it worth the walk even for non-anglers. Additional hiking trails branch off into the surrounding national forest.
Swimming is possible when summer water temperatures warm up, and visitors report spending multiple days swimming during extended camping stays. Kayaking and boating on the calm, serene water are also popular, with the mountain backdrop creating a setting that reviewers compare to being inside a painting. Bald eagles have been spotted hunting fish on the reservoir, sometimes perching in nearby trees for extended periods.
Camping options include both established campsites and dispersed camping. The Teal Campsite overlooks the reservoir and is a favorite among returning visitors. Restrooms are available on-site. The access road is unpaved but manageable in a standard passenger car during summer and fall. Winter and early spring may require four-wheel drive, and seasonal snow closures can block reservoir access. November visits in an SUV are doable but check conditions first. The area near Pagosa Springs offers additional scenic drives and hikes for those making a multi-day trip.