Old Timers Day Use Area

For Colorado locals seeking a perfect spot to enjoy a day outdoors without the commitment of overnight camping, Old Timers Day Use Area near Bayfield offers a beautiful and accessible solution. Nestled on the scenic east shore of Vallecito Reservoir within the San Juan National Forest, this day-use area provides a tranquil setting for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying the natural beauty that Colorado is famous for. It's an ideal destination for families, friends, or solo adventurers looking to spend quality time by the water, engage in some casual fishing, or simply unwind in a serene environment.

Old Timers Day Use Area stands out as a convenient and cost-effective option for a memorable day trip. Unlike full campgrounds, it's designed specifically for daytime enjoyment, allowing visitors to make the most of the daylight hours from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The affordable $10 per site fee makes it an attractive choice for those looking for a budget-friendly outdoor experience. Its location by the expansive Vallecito Reservoir means that beyond picnicking, visitors have easy access to fishing opportunities and stunning lakeside views, creating a versatile recreational spot.

While the focus is on self-contained enjoyment, the overall natural beauty of the location speaks for itself. It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the Colorado landscape, whether you’re enjoying a packed lunch at a shaded picnic site or simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance. For those living in or visiting the southwest Colorado region, Old Timers Day Use Area offers a straightforward and rewarding way to connect with the great outdoors for a day.

Old Timers Day Use Area is conveniently situated at Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA. Its prime location on the east shore of Vallecito Reservoir, approximately 1.5 miles north of the dam on County Road 501A (which is also Forest Rd. 603), makes it easily accessible for local Colorado residents. The journey to the day-use area offers scenic drives through the San Juan National Forest, setting the tone for a relaxing day outdoors.

For those traveling from Durango, the route involves taking Florida Road (County Road #240) for about 17 miles, then turning left onto County Road #501 for 4 miles, followed by a slight right onto Forest Road #603 for just under a mile. From Bayfield, the drive is even more direct: travel 14 miles north on County Road #501, then a slight right (northeast) onto Forest Road #603 for just under a mile. These clear directions ensure a straightforward trip to the day-use area.

The location on Vallecito Reservoir provides not only beautiful water views but also potential for activities like fishing. While it's a day-use area, its setting within the San Juan National Forest offers the peace and natural beauty characteristic of Colorado's outdoor spaces. Visitors can expect a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the fresh air, with parking available directly at the site to ensure easy access to the amenities.

• Designated Picnic Sites: The area features nine shaded picnic sites, each thoughtfully placed on a gentle hillside near the water, providing pleasant spots for outdoor meals and relaxation.

• Picnic Tables: Each designated site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table, offering a convenient surface for dining, playing games, or simply enjoying the view.

• Restroom Facilities: Clean and maintained restrooms are available on-site, ensuring comfort and convenience for all visitors throughout the day.

• Trash Dumpsters: For responsible waste disposal, trash dumpsters are provided, encouraging visitors to keep the beautiful natural environment clean and tidy.

• Day-Use Access: The area operates specifically as a day-use facility, open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, allowing ample time for daytime activities and enjoyment.

• Affordable Site Fee: Access to the day-use area costs a reasonable $10.00 per site, making it an accessible option for individuals and groups looking to enjoy the outdoors.

• No Reservations Required: Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, providing flexibility for spontaneous day trips without the need for advance booking.

• Scenic Lakeside Location: Old Timers Day Use Area is set on the beautiful east shore of Vallecito Reservoir, offering stunning water views and a picturesque backdrop for your day outdoors. This expansive body of water is a central feature, providing both visual appeal and recreational opportunities.

• Shaded Picnic Sites: With nine shaded picnic sites nestled on a gentle hillside, visitors can enjoy comfortable outdoor meals even on sunnier days. The natural shade provided enhances the relaxation factor and makes for a more enjoyable experience.

• Proximity to Water: The sites are located "near the water," providing easy access for those who wish to fish, enjoy the views, or simply be close to the calming presence of the reservoir.

• Fishing Opportunities: As part of the Vallecito Reservoir area, the day-use area offers access to fishing, a popular activity for many Colorado outdoor enthusiasts. While specific details about fishing spots directly within the day-use area are not provided, the reservoir itself is known for various fish species.

• Tranquil Atmosphere: The area is designed for day use, generally offering a more peaceful environment compared to overnight campgrounds. It's a place where visitors can unwind and enjoy the sounds of nature.

• Natural Beauty of San Juan National Forest: Being located within the San Juan National Forest, the area is surrounded by towering trees and the typical rugged beauty of the Colorado mountains, enhancing the overall aesthetic and providing opportunities for quiet enjoyment of the landscape.

Address: Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA

Phone: (970) 247-4874

Mobile Phone: +1 970-247-4874

For Colorado locals, Old Timers Day Use Area offers a uniquely suitable option for enjoying the state's incredible outdoors without the complexities often associated with overnight camping. Its design and features cater directly to the needs of residents seeking convenient, accessible, and affordable ways to connect with nature for a day.

Firstly, the concept of a dedicated day-use area is perfect for busy Coloradans. Not everyone has the time or equipment for a multi-day camping trip, but the desire to escape to the mountains for a few hours remains strong. Old Timers provides that ideal solution, allowing families and individuals to enjoy a beautiful setting for picnics, casual recreation, and relaxation from morning until evening, all within a short drive from nearby communities like Bayfield and Durango. This flexibility makes it a go-to spot for spontaneous outings or planned daytime gatherings.

Secondly, the cost-effectiveness of the $10 per site fee is a significant advantage. In a state where recreational expenses can add up, Old Timers offers excellent value, making a day in a beautiful natural setting highly accessible to more residents. This affordability encourages more frequent visits, allowing locals to regularly tap into the therapeutic benefits of Colorado's outdoor spaces without breaking the bank.

Furthermore, the peaceful and beautiful setting on Vallecito Reservoir, with its shaded picnic sites and clear amenities like restrooms and trash disposal, contributes to a stress-free experience. While some anecdotal feedback mentions isolated negative interactions, the overwhelming natural beauty and the functional design of the area remain its core appeal. For Colorado locals, it's about having a reliable, clean, and scenic spot where they can effortlessly enjoy the natural splendor of the San Juan National Forest, fish in a picturesque reservoir, and create simple, joyful memories with loved ones, making it a truly valuable local resource for everyday outdoor enjoyment.

Old Timers Day Use Area

Forest Rd 603, Bayfield, CO 81122, USA