Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park is a Colorado State Park located in Oak Creek, and is around 160 miles northwest of the city of Denver. The park offers fishing, camping, biking, and birding with great views of Stagecoach Reservoir.

Activities

There are a large variety of things to do available to Stagecoach State Park visitors.

Here are just a few of the many activities at Stagecoach park:

Boating At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park is open to boaters during the warmer months of the year, from May 1st to October 31st. Both motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed on the reservoir during this time, as the reservoir is divided between a wakeless and non-wakeless zone.

Keep in mind that all vessels must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species (ANS) before launching into the reservoir. However, vessels of all types, including jet skis, paddleboards, sailboards, and sailboats are all allowed on the reservoir, so long as the proper safety protocols are followed. It is also important to note that swimming is only allowed in the wakeless zones and at the swim beach, however, boaters should still be on the lookout for any swimmers or potential sunken hazards along the reservoir.

Swimming At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park reservoir is an incredible place to cool off during the sweltering summer heat, especially for those camping within the park. Swimming is allowed in any wakeless zone and at the swim beach, which is conveniently located near the marina. The swim beach also has a volleyball court.

However, there is no lifeguard on duty in the park, and all swimmers should be aware there are water hazards throughout the reservoir. Keep in mind that children should be supervised at all times by an adult and that all swim areas are “swim at your own risk” zones.

Hiking At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park has six hiking trails that weave throughout the park. Visitors can walk along the reservoir, or explore the natural areas of the park alongside this beautiful body of water. Some of the trails are open to biking as well as equestrian traffic, allowing visitors to take in the sights no matter how they decide to travel the park.

Here are some of the trails at Stagecoach State Park:

• Pinnacle Peak Trail – This trail connects to the Pinnacle Loop Trail, and is an easy trail for anyone looking to explore the northern area of the park. Length: 1/4 mile Degree of Difficulty: easy
• Public Lands Access Trail (PLAT) – This out-and-back trail is connected to Elk Run Trail and is near the dam, allowing you to make your way up Woodchuck Hill Moutain. Keep in mind this trail is closed from January 1st to March 31sty to help maintain the winter elk habitat in the park. Length: 3/4 mile Degree of Difficulty: varies
• Elk Run Trail – The Elk Run Trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, and is also open for snowshoeing and cross country skiing in the winter months. This trail is nearby several other named trails, allowing you to customize your overall hiking experience and difficulty. Degree of Difficulty: varies

Biking At Stagecoach State Park

Home to close to 8 miles of trails, Stagecoach State Park offers easy to moderate cycling opportunities for visitors. The gravel-covered trails are easy enough to bike on given the proper tires, and several loops allow dedicated bikers to extend their daily workout while visiting the park.

The trails are also well-groomed during the winter months, making Stagecoach an incredible location for fat tire biking.

Keep in mind that many of the trails throughout the park are multi-use trails, and to be respectful of other visitors, including pedestrians and equestrians, while using the various trails.

Horseback Riding At Stagecoach State Park

While there are no stables or horse renting locations near Stagecoach State Park, however, there is equestrian riding available along both Elk Run and Lakeview Trails. While parking is available for trailers, keep in mind that parking options may be limited depending on the number of visitors in the park at the time, especially during weekends or holidays.

Fishing At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park offers anglers a challenging fishing experience, with hard-fighting rainbow trout that can grow up to 18 inches in length. Some of the pike within the reservoir can reach up to 30 lbs and exceed 46 inches in length, meaning the talented angler may leave with more to show than just a tale of the one that got away. Keep in mind that while there is no bag limit for caught pike, there are restrictions as to the number of trout that can be caught, which can be found on the state park website.

Ice fishing is also incredibly popular in the park once the reservoir has iced over, with both rainbow trout and northern pike prevalent in the waters. Keep in mind that while ice conditions are usually present between December and March, the thickness of the ice can vary day to day, so always check the conditions online before approaching the park and take all safety precautions necessary.

Beginner anglers, or anglers who find themself without a fishing kit, will be happy to know basic fishing gear is provided at the park as part of a free loaner program.

Birding At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park is home to Eurasian coots, bald eagles, osprey, white-faced ibis, American white pelicans, and more. Avid birders can follow the various hiking trails through the pike to check out the natural habitats of these stunning species or can spy waterfowl from paddle craft as they cruise the surface of the reservoir. Stagecoach State Park has plenty of information on previously sighted bird species on their website, as well as current rare bird sightings and weather conditions throughout the park.

Winter Activities At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park is home to a plethora of winter activities. Anglers can try their hand at ice fishing for pike and trout, while hikers can strap on snowshoes or cross country skis to see the glory of the Colorado wilderness during the winter months.

Snowmobiles are allowed in the park but only for ice fishing or when traveling to and from trailers for ice fishing. Keep in mind that all ice should be checked before traveling across it, and bring all safety gear necessary when crossing frozen water.

Pets At Stagecoach State Park

Dogs are welcome at Stagecoach State Park, so long as they are kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash, and all waste is properly disposed of. Keep in mind that dogs are not allowed on the swim beach.

Horses are allowed along the various equestrian trails in the park, however, there is nowhere to stable your horse in the park, and parking for horse trailers may be limited depending on the visitor load in the park.

Camping At Stagecoach State Park

Stagecoach State Park has plenty of camping opportunities for backwoods campers, as well as RV campers. These campsites are open year-round and must be reserved in advance, with the peak seasons falling on Memorial Day and Labor Day. Keep in mind each campsite has access to different amenities, so be sure to check out the state park website to find out which campsite fits your unique needs.

The park also welcomes winter campers, though winter campers should be aware that access to some amenities and activities may vary depending on the weather and the season.

Park Location

Stagecoach State Park
25500 County Road 14
Oak Creek CO 80467
Phone: 970.736.2436
Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Below is an interesting YouTube video showcasing different attractions at Stagecoach State Park: