Lemon Reservoir

Lemon Reservoir sits tucked away in La Plata County about 30 minutes northeast of Durango, offering a peaceful retreat where you can paddle, fish, and camp without the crowds that flock to larger Southwest Colorado lakes. Reviewers consistently describe it as quiet and beautiful, with several noting they had the entire lake to themselves on weekday visits. The reservoir draws a loyal following of locals who return season after season for the solitude and mountain scenery.

Fishing at Lemon Reservoir targets trout, and anglers report good fall fishing in particular. The lake also supports canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, with calm water conditions that make it ideal for flat-water paddling. During winter months, the reservoir freezes over and transforms into a hub for ice skating and cross-country skiing, with locals even setting up informal hockey games on the ice.

Camping around Lemon Reservoir provides a genuine backcountry feel. Multiple dispersed and developed campsites surround the water, and visitors describe the experience as a true escape from city life. Restrooms are available on site, though they are vault toilets without running water. Reviewers note the facilities are kept clean despite the remote setting.

Access to Lemon Reservoir can be limited depending on the season and your approach route. At least one access point requires hiking down to reach the water, so visitors should plan accordingly and check conditions before making the drive. The surrounding area features unpaved trails for hiking and exploring, and the fall foliage draws visitors who come specifically for the autumn color changes.

Lemon Reservoir is best suited for visitors who value quiet over convenience. It is not a developed resort lake with marinas and concessions. Instead, it rewards those willing to drive the extra miles for uncrowded water, reliable trout fishing, and the kind of stillness that only comes from being genuinely off the beaten path in the San Juan Mountains.