Rifle Gap State Park
Rifle Gap State Park is a state park in Colorado located in Rifle, and is around 70 miles northeast of the city of Grand Junction. The park offers hiking, camping, snowmobiling, and boating with great views of rifle gap reservoir.
Activities
There are a large variety of amusements available to Rifle Gap State Park patrons.
Here are just a few of the many amusements at Rifle Gap park:
Boating At Rifle Gap State Park
Rifle Gap Reservoir, which gives this state park its name, offers some of the best boating available for miles around during the summer months. This reservoir welcomes water skiers, jet skiers, boaters, and sailing vessels of all kinds. There is one boat ramp to the north of the lake, and there is a swim beach located to the west, which is a popular picnic location.
Keep in mind that all state and local guidelines apply to boating vessels and that all boats must be inspected for aquatic nuisance species (ANS) prior to launch.
Swimming At Rifle Gap State Park
While there is no dedicated swimming area at Rifle Gap State Park, swimming is allowed in any wakeless area, and there is a beach located to the west of the park that is a popular destination for swimmers and picnickers alike. Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty anywhere within the park and that all children should be supervised by an adult when in or around water.
Hiking At Rifle Gap State Park
Rifle Gap State Park is home to the Cottonwood Camp Loop Trail. The other walking trail options within the park include walking around the perimeter of the lake or exploring some of the dirt trails in the adjacent BLM land.
Fishing At Rifle Gap State Park
Fishing is welcome at Rifle Gap State Park. The reservoir is home to rainbow and German brown trout, walleye, pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and more. The reservoir is also a peak location for ice fishing in the colder months, though keep in mind that ice fishing has its own risks and considerations and to always follow park guidelines when stepping out onto the ice.
Check out the state park website for more information on catch limits, as well as the peak locations for catching various kinds of fish during each season.
Winter Recreation At Rifle Gap State Park
As mentioned previously, Rifle Gap State Park is a must-visit ice fishing location, but there’s more to do in the park than just drop in a line. The park is open to cross-country skiing as well as snowshoeing, and those who are fans of snowmobiling can take to adjacent areas to explore the trails. There is also winter camping within the park and plenty of nearby ski areas for you to explore. Plus, the park is only 40 miles away from Glenwood Springs’ hot springs.
Pets At Rifle Gap State Park
Dogs are welcome at Rifle Gap State Park, so long as they are kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash, their waste is properly disposed of, and they are not left unattended, even in the campsite or in RVs.
Camping At Rifle Gap State Park
Rifle Gap State Park has campsite locations spread across the park, with areas able to accommodate drive-in and walk-in campers. RV hookups are available at various campsites, and the sites are open year-round, allowing the dedicated camper to take advantage of the incredible winter activities available at the park during the colder months. For more information on each campsite, or to make a reservation, check out the state park page. Keep in mind, access to any amenities in the park may vary from campsite to campsite.
Park Location
Rifle Gap State Park 5775 Highway 325 Rifle CO 81650 Phone: 970.625.1607 Website Reservations
Map
Video
Below is an interesting YouTube video highlighting different things to do at Rifle Gap State Park:
Western Slope’s Scuba & Water Sports
Rifle Gap is one of Colorado’s few ice-free swimming reservoirs in early season, and a certified scuba diving site! Great camping between Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction.
Camping
| Type | Sites | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Electric | 20+ | Near water |
| Basic | 26 | Tent sites |
Reserve: cpwshop.com.
Scuba Diving
One of Colorado’s certified dive sites with platform and underwater features for divers.
Wildlife & Nature
Rifle Gap SP — in a dramatic canyon gap in the Grand Hogback ridge. The park’s reservoir, canyon, and sagebrush support mule deer, golden eagles, and wild turkeys.
Nearby Attractions
Rifle — nearby. Rifle Falls SP — nearby (featuring a triple waterfall). White River NF — surrounding.
Can I scuba dive here?
Yes! Rifle Gap is one of Colorado’s designated scuba parks with a diving platform.
Explore More Colorado State Parks
Rifle Gap State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Colorado. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Colorado guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Insider Tips
Western Slope gem: Rifle Gap Reservoir offers warm water swimming and boating in Colorado’s arid Western Slope. Pro tip: Nearby Rifle Falls State Park features a triple waterfall and limestone caves. Scuba diving: The reservoir is one of the few scuba diving destinations in Colorado.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Swimming and boating — water is warmer than mountain reservoirs. Fall: Less crowded. Spring: Fishing. Winter: Ice fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I scuba dive in Colorado?
Yes. Rifle Gap Reservoir is one of Colorado’s few viable scuba diving locations, with reasonable visibility and interesting underwater features. The warm water (for Colorado) makes it comfortable for diving in summer months. Altitude diving certification is recommended.
Park Location
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