Beaver Lake Day Use Area/ Fishing Site

For Coloradans, the call of the mountains often leads to a desire for serene escapes, where the fresh air, stunning views, and a touch of wildness can truly rejuvenate the spirit. Nestled in the heart of the Uncompahgre National Forest, near the charming town of Cimarron, lies Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site. While its name suggests a primary focus on day use and fishing, this hidden gem also offers a delightful, small campground perfect for an overnight stay or a few tranquil nights under the Colorado sky.

Beaver Lake provides a quintessential Colorado outdoor experience. Imagine waking up to open views of a sparkling lake, spending your days fishing, paddleboarding, or swimming, and perhaps even encountering the friendly, free-roaming cows that add to the rustic charm. It’s a place that balances accessibility with a genuine feeling of being immersed in nature, making it an ideal destination for locals seeking a peaceful retreat without venturing too far into the deep backcountry.

This article will guide you through the allure of Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site, detailing its unique location, the services it offers, and its standout features. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a family looking for a lakeside adventure, or simply someone yearning for a quiet night by the water, Beaver Lake promises a memorable and refreshing escape in one of Colorado's most beautiful regions.

Location and Accessibility

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site is strategically located near Cimarron, CO 81220, USA, specifically on Co Rd 858. This places it within the vast and picturesque Uncompahgre National Forest, part of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests system. The site sits in a beautiful mountain setting, about 1 mile north of the larger Silver Jack Reservoir, near the head of the Cimarron Valley.

Access to Beaver Lake is generally straightforward. From Montrose, CO, travelers can drive east on U.S. Highway 50 for approximately 20 miles, then turn south onto County Road 858 (also known as Big Cimarron Road), following signs for Forest Access/Silver Jack Reservoir. Continue on Co Rd 858 for about 15 miles until you see the Beaver Lake Campground sign.

County Road 858 is typically well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, including those towing small trailers or RVs, during the open season. However, as it's located at an elevation of around 8,778 feet, access can be seasonal, typically opening around June 1st and remaining accessible through the fall until snow makes the road impassable. It’s always advisable to check current road conditions and advisories with the Forest Service before planning your trip, especially during shoulder seasons. The campground's proximity to the lake allows for easy, direct access to the water for various recreational activities.

Services Offered

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site provides a set of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable, yet still rustic, outdoor experience. It's important to note that while it offers camping, it is a smaller, more intimate site.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 15 small campsites. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not taken. Visitors need to physically arrive at the campground to claim and pay for a site.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Grates/Rings: Fire grates or rings are available at each site, allowing for campfires for cooking and warmth. Users must always check for current fire restrictions or bans, which are common in Colorado's dry conditions.
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides vault toilets, which are typically clean and well-maintained. This is a key amenity for convenience in a more primitive setting.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to be aware that potable water is NOT available at Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site. Campers must bring all their own drinking, cooking, and washing water. While the lake is present, its water should not be consumed without proper filtration and treatment.
• No Electricity or Hookups: There are no electrical hookups for RVs or charging devices, and no sewer hookups. This is a traditional camping experience.
• Day Use Area: As indicated by its name, there is a dedicated day-use area for visitors not staying overnight, ideal for picnics, fishing, or enjoying the lake. A day-use parking fee (typically $5 per carload) applies if entering the campground area for day use.
• Fee-Based Camping: There is a fee for camping, usually around $12 per night, with a reduced fee for those holding an Interagency Pass.
• Pack-In, Pack-Out: While not explicitly stated as a service, the expectation for national forest campgrounds is generally to pack out all garbage and waste.

Features / Highlights

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site offers several appealing features that make it a highly desirable destination for Colorado locals:

• Direct Lake Access and Views: The campground is situated "right next to Beaver Lake with open views of the water." This provides unparalleled access for water-based activities and stunning scenic beauty right from your campsite.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: As a designated "Fishing Site," Beaver Lake is known for good angling. While information about specific species isn't provided in the reviews, local knowledge and forest service details suggest the potential for trout (rainbow, cutthroat, brook) and possibly other species given the area's stocking efforts in Colorado lakes. Fox Creek, a short walk west of the lake, also offers stream fishing.
• Water Activities: The lake is suitable for "swimming and paddleboarding," making it a perfect spot for families and individuals looking to enjoy the water during warmer months. Small motorless watercraft are generally allowed.
• Friendly Roaming Livestock: A unique and charming highlight mentioned by reviewers is the presence of "cows that roamed free in the area." While requiring awareness (and vigilance for "large poops"), this adds a distinctive, pastoral element to the wilderness experience.
• Small, Intimate Campground: With "about 15 lots," Beaver Lake offers a more intimate and less crowded camping experience compared to larger, more bustling campgrounds, appealing to those seeking tranquility.
• Beautiful Mountain Setting: The site sits in a "beautiful mountain setting," near the head of the Cimarron Valley, with rugged peaks reaching over 13,000 and 14,000 feet providing a stunning backdrop.
• Proximity to Trails: While a short trail around the lake (0.7 miles, easy gravel path) is noted, the larger Cimarron area of the Uncompahgre National Forest offers over 30 trails ranging from easy short hikes to longer, more challenging routes like the 18-mile Alpine Trail.
• Day Use Amenities: The dedicated day-use area with picnic sites makes it a great spot for a quick visit or a picnic lunch even if not camping.

Contact Information

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding conditions, fees, and regulations, it's best to contact the relevant Forest Service office.

Address: Co Rd 858, Cimarron, CO 81220, USA (Physical location, not a mailing address)

Phone for GMUG National Forests Headquarters (general inquiries): (970) 874-6600

Mobile Phone: +1 970-874-6600 (This is the same number, often listed as the main contact)

For more specific information related to the Cimarron area or Beaver Lake, you might also contact the Ouray Ranger District, which oversees this part of the Uncompahgre National Forest:

Ouray Ranger District

Address: 25046 US Hwy 550, Montrose, CO 81401

Phone: (970) 240-5300

Official Website: fs.usda.gov/gmug (navigate to the Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site page or recreational activities)

For information on purchasing sites (first-come, first-served), you can also look up "Beaver Lake (CO), Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest" on Recreation.gov, though payment is typically made on-site via QR code if available.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site offers a quintessential Colorado experience that perfectly suits the preferences of many local outdoor enthusiasts. Its charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. For Coloradans, who often seek authentic mountain getaways, Beaver Lake provides an accessible yet truly immersive escape.

The campground's small size, with about 15 sites, fosters a more intimate and peaceful setting, a welcome contrast to larger, often crowded, recreational areas. Locals appreciate the first-come, first-served system, allowing for spontaneous trips to their beloved mountains without the need for extensive advance planning. The presence of roaming cattle, while unique, adds a rustic and genuine Colorado ranching touch to the landscape, creating a memorable experience that feels distinctly local.

The direct access to Beaver Lake is a significant draw. For fishing aficionados, the well-stocked waters and proximity to Fox Creek offer excellent angling opportunities. For families, the ability to swim and paddleboard right from the campground provides hours of summer fun. This versatility makes it ideal for a variety of local interests, whether it's a dedicated fishing trip, a relaxed family outing, or a serene solo retreat.

Furthermore, its location within the Uncompahgre National Forest means a wealth of additional outdoor activities are just a short drive away, including a network of hiking trails that allow for deeper exploration of the stunning Cimarron Valley. While the lack of potable water requires preparedness, it aligns with the self-sufficient spirit of many Colorado campers who are accustomed to bringing their own supplies and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

In essence, Beaver Lake Day Use Area/Fishing Site is more than just a campground; it’s a tranquil oasis that perfectly captures the essence of Colorado's natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle. It’s a place where locals can easily connect with nature, enjoy beloved recreational pursuits, and create lasting memories amidst the serene backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

Beaver Lake Day Use Area/ Fishing Site

Co Rd 858, Cimarron, CO 81220, USA