Where is Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir located?

Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir is located in Park County, Colorado.

Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir

Park County, Colorado

4.7(39 reviews)

About Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir

Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir is a large, scenic reservoir in Park County that ranks among Colorado's top fisheries. Set against stunning rock formations at the mouth of Elevenmile Canyon, the reservoir draws serious anglers, boaters, and campers looking for wide-open mountain scenery less than two hours from Colorado Springs.

Fishing at Elevenmile Canyon Reservoir targets trout, kokanee salmon, and northern pike. Longtime regulars consider it one of the premier fishing destinations in the state, and limit catches are reported by reviewers. Shore fishing access is available at multiple points around the reservoir, while boat anglers can take advantage of the large open water. Fly fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the seasonal insect hatches, including caddisflies and mayflies that emerge in mid-June. The reservoir also supports a healthy population of larger fish that keep dedicated anglers returning week after week.

Boating and paddling are popular on the reservoir's expansive waters. A boat ramp provides motorized boat access, though the ramp can become congested during peak weekends with long lines and inexperienced boaters causing backups. Kayakers and paddleboarders enjoy the calmer conditions in the morning before afternoon winds pick up. Multiple reviewers emphasize that wind is a defining feature of this reservoir, with strong afternoon gusts that can make boating challenging and trigger red flag fire warnings.

Camping at Elevenmile offers a range of options, from waterfront primitive sites to more developed spots. Some campsites sit right on the water, allowing paddlers to launch directly from their site. The campground rarely fills completely, giving visitors flexibility, though reservations are still recommended during peak summer weekends. Shower houses and vault toilets are generally kept clean by park staff. Shade is limited across much of the campground, so plan accordingly.

The drive into Elevenmile Canyon is memorable on its own, with dramatic canyon walls lining the 11-mile road to the reservoir. Be aware that road conditions include potholes and rough patches. Park entry requires a Colorado State Parks pass or a day-use fee of $7 to $10. Fire restrictions are common in Park County, so check current regulations before planning campfires, and consider bringing a propane fire pit as a backup. Insect hatches in early summer produce swarms of non-biting flies that can be annoying but are harmless. Bug spray is still recommended for the actual mosquitoes that come out near water at dusk.

Reviews (10)

Deanna G

Beautiful lake!! Peaceful. We will be back!!

NJ Dgro

Scenery is Beautiful and Peaceful

This reservoir is much larger than we anticipated! It's surrounded by gorgeous views and we found some peaceful spots to relax, fish and soak in the beauty around us. The downsides to prepare for: - Damaged roads; lots of potholes - People on their boats coming very close to the fishing lines - Unmaintained public restrooms - Around this time of the year, bugs are out

Sonya Pulido

It's so beautiful. The 11 miles ride to get there was a little scary for me. You also have to pay $10.

David Morrison

Amazing lake, great if you have a boat. If you go to the campsite to camp, don't. There's no privacy. It's based for the water.

Taylor Denman

I fish 11 mile weekly, sometimes multiple times a week, been going for years. Lately, especially this year, there’s been an excessive number of pleasure boaters and incompetent people coming to the mile. What was once a relatively quiet peaceful lake, filled with seasoned boaters, now has turned into an absolute zoo. Ridiculous tourists that have no concept of how a line at the boat ramp works, people who have little to no experience backing down their trailers, creating massive bottlenecks at the ramps. It’s truly ridiculous. If you want to go out on a lake with your family and enjoy nature, then go somewhere OTHER THAN ELEVEN MILE! You have all these options, chatfield, cherry creek, Boyd, Barr, Jackson, Union, antero, rampart, the list goes on and on. Don’t freaking come to one of the top fisheries in the state, with your lack of knowledge, getting in the way of all of us regulars who still have enough common courtesy and common sense to stay out of the way of other boaters. If you don’t know what you’re doing, and aren’t a seasoned Boater and fisherman, then please don’t come to eleven mile.

Ratzy

Great place to camp, typically never full and if you can do without electric hookups you can get some beautiful spots, some right on the water. Wife and kids put in their paddle boards right from our campsite! There can be a LOT of flying insects, but many ARE NOT mosquitos. We were up in mid June and there was a "triple hatch" of Caddisflies, May Flys and some other swarming insect. None of them bite, the fellow at the General store filled us in so we didn't waste any deet/Off! They were annoying though, especially when they swarmed around you. Not to say that mosquitos don't exist, I did get 2 bites over three days. I was by the water and by the campfire at night. I am not rating the park based on the weather! Because the wind can get bad and be very annoying. All three afternoons were very breezy with two red flag warnings, so no campfires until after 6:00 and 9:00 PM respectively on our trip. Also, Park County is notorious for fire restrictions so be prepared and check with the County before you head up if a campfire is a crucial part of your experience (as it is for us.) Worst case scenario bring a propane fire pit, i.e. "fire in a can." Not many places with shade, and putting your awning out can be an expensive mistake based on wind, so keep that in mind. Shower house and vault toilets were super clean, kudos to the staff at the park! Hope this helps you and you have a great time! Ray

Marcus Crow

Eleven Mile Canyon State Park is a picturesque destination for camping and fishing enthusiasts. The tranquil setting, surrounded by stunning rock formations and a peaceful river, provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. The camping facilities are well-maintained, offering a rustic experience in nature. Fishing in the river is a popular pastime, with plenty of opportunities to catch trout and other fish species. However, the park can get busy during peak seasons, so early reservations are recommended. Overall, Eleven Mile Canyon State Park is a wonderful place to unwind, connect with nature, and enjoy camping and fishing adventures.

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Jeremy

Big fish here