Located in the Rio Grande National Forest, the Continental Reservoir is a large irrigation impoundment located south of Lake City, in the center of Hinsdale County, Colorado. The Continental Reservoir has a fluctuating surface elevation of roughly 10,300 feet, with nearly 150 acres of pristine blue water tucked into picturesque Rocky Mountain wilderness.
The Continental Reservoir was originally constructed in 1928, with a $4.6 million renovation completed in 2016. It was built and is used for irrigational purposes throughout the San Luis Valley.
Activities at Continental Reservoir
With access via motor vehicle or snowmobile, the Continental Reservoir welcomes visitors all year round. At the reservoir, there is a parking lot with bathroom facilities, open seasonally. The reservoir usually stays frozen between December and May, and heavy snow in the area may block road access.
Boating: Both motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted on the Continental Reservoir for wakeless speeds. There is a concrete boat ramp located near the parking lot on the east side of the reservoir which is free for public use. Kayaks, canoes, and duckies are popular among Continental Reservoir anglers.
Camping: Camping is not permitted at the Continental Reservoir, however there are many opportunities for dispersed and developed camping in the Rio Grande National Forest. Notably, a few forest service campgrounds can be easily found by just south of the turnoff to the reservoir on State Highway 149 and Forest Road 510.
Fishing: The Continental Reservoir is well stocked with brook, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. Fishing is possible all year round with snowmobile access making ice fishing available in the winter. In general, anglers report good conditions in the reservoir and throughout the adjoining streams. As per state regulations, a Colorado fishing license is required.
Details
Address: Continental Reservoir Fishing Site, Forest Rd 513.2C, Creede, CO 81130
Phone: 719-852-5941
Season: Year Round
Hours: 24/7
Fees: None
Maps: Topographic Map (link)
Website: fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=28976