Rifle Gap State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CO

Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park in Colorado offers visitors a picturesque reservoir nestled amidst stunning rocky cliffs, making it an ideal destination for water sports and camping.

State Park1,3052+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,305

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park in Colorado offers visitors a picturesque reservoir nestled amidst stunning rocky cliffs, making it an ideal destination for water sports and camping.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Rifle Gap State Park, located in the western part of Colorado, is known for its clear blue reservoir that stretches across 360 surface acres, surrounded by rugged landscapes and towering rock formations. The park's scenic beauty attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming in the summer months. Created by the construction of the Rifle Gap Dam, the reservoir serves as a focal point for the park. Wildlife is abundant, with mule deer, elk, and various bird species frequently spotted by visitors. Thanks to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, the park experiences diverse seasonal changes that enhance its appeal for activities like hiking and photography. Established in 1966, it remains a cherished spot for both locals and tourists, inviting them to explore its natural environs and enjoy a respite in a stunning Colorado setting.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Rifle Gap State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Rifle Gap Reservoir✦ Diverse bird watching opportunities✦ Rifle Falls✦ Pioneer Mesa Trail
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Rifle Gap State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Rifle Gap State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Rifle Gap State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Rifle Gap State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Rifle Gap State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Rifle Gap State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Rifle Gap State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

A valid Colorado State Parks Pass is required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Rifle Gap State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Cedar Campground

Located near the water's edge, it offers amenities like electric hookups and easy access to the reservoir.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Rifle Gap State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silt, Colorado
⌖ 10.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silt, Colorado

Silt, Colorado, is a peaceful town on the Western Slope perfect for paddling, hiking, and fishing along the Colorado River and the scenic Roan Plateau. Ideal for outdoor lovers looking for low-key adventure in nature.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Rifle, Colorado
⌖ 11.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rifle, Colorado

Rifle, Colorado is a paradise for adventure seekers. Offering rock climbing, hiking, and fishing amidst diverse landscapes, it's the perfect place for outdoor exploration.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
New Castle, Colorado
⌖ 13.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

New Castle, Colorado

New Castle, Colorado, offers outdoor lovers a peaceful mountain town experience with great hiking, biking, river paddling, and winter skiing nearby. It’s a perfect basecamp for exploring the West Elk Mountains and Colorado River corridor year-round.

Late Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Battlement Mesa, Colorado
⌖ 22.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Battlement Mesa, Colorado

Battlement Mesa, Colorado is a quiet outdoor hub atop a scenic mesa with hiking, biking, and fishing access to Colorado River valleys and nearby national forest. Ideal for visitors seeking peaceful trails and nature away from crowded resorts.

Late Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Parachute, Colorado
⌖ 23.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parachute, Colorado

Parachute, Colorado, is a quiet Western Slope town with easy access to paddling on the Colorado River, desert hiking, and mountain biking. Perfect for outdoor lovers seeking Southwestern landscapes away from crowds.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
⌖ 24.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Glenwood Springs offers an ideal mix of adrenaline and relaxation amidst the Colorado Rockies. With hiking trails, mountain biking routes, hot springs, and vibrant local culture, it's a perfect outdoor retreat.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Rifle Gap State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Three Hours at Harvey Gap: Small Lake, Big Fish
ADVEXPEDITION
Rifle, Colorado
Boat TourADV Bookable

Three Hours at Harvey Gap: Small Lake, Big Fish

Apex Sport Fishing runs a focused, three-hour boat trip from the Harvey Gap Reservoir boat launch for anglers chasing pike, bass, panfish and the occasional muskie.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip