Stagecoach State Park – Oak Creek, CO | Stagecoach Reservoir near Steamboat

Stagecoach is a wonderful state park situated in the beautiful Yampa River Valley, south of Steamboat Springs. Stagecoach Reservoir is the highlight of the park, offering outstanding fishing and boating.

The park is popular for fishing year round, with ice fishing common in the winter. Campgrounds overlook the lake, creating an unforgettable place to spend the night.

Activities at Stagecoach Reservoir

Stagecoach State Park Fishing Oak Creek CO — Fisherman on Stagecoach Reservoir, Oak Creek. Photo: Cyndi and Dave

Biking: 8 miles of trails. The Elk Run Trail and Lakeside Trails are popular in the summer. They can be combined with county roads for an 11 mile loop around the lake.

Boating: The reservoir is divided into wakeless and non-wakeless areas. It’ls open to jet skis, water skis, pontoons, sailboats, fishing boats.

Camping: Yes, 92 sites, 4 campgrounds, open year round. Reservations recommended during peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Coin operated showers are available at the marina, as well as a small shop with some fishing supplies and food items.

Junction City and Pinnacle campgrounds offer electric hookup.
McKindley campground can be reserved for group camping of up to 45 people.

Read about the Camping near Steamboat Springs, Clark and Oak Creek.

Fishing: The reservoir has a reputation for great rainbow trout and northern pike fishing. It’s encouraged to keep any pikes caught to keep the trout population healthy. Some pike are marked with an orange tag for study, report any of these caught.

Yampa River offers great fishing behind the dam.

Hiking: The Wetlands and Pinnacle Peak trails allow only hiking. Pets are permitted on all trails.

Horseback Riding: The Lakeview and Elk Run trails are open to horses. There are no stables or horse rentals in the immediate area.

Hunting: Waterfowl and small game hunting permitted from the Tuesday after Labor Day through legal season.

Swimming: Allowed at the marina at the swim beach. There is a sand volleyball as well.

Winter Recreation: Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing are popular. Free snowshoe rentals are available at the park office! Snowmobiling is allowed only on the lake for ice fishing access to and from your trailer. It’s not allowed anywhere else in the park.

Tent site at McKindley Campground.