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Colorado State Parks
Parks > Elkhead Reservoir State Park > Activities

Park Activities

Archery

The Archery range at Elkhead is open. We have 6 static targets and 3D targets setup for your enjoyment. A State parks pass is required to use the archery range
(Updated: 8/1/2024 3:43 PM)

Boating

Open/Close Date: May 15 – September 30
Hours of Operation:

  • May: 6:00 am – 9:30 pm
  • June - July: 6:00 am – 9:30 pm
  • August: 6:00 am – 9:00 pm
  • September: 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

Special Considerations: Northeast access hand launch only

Boating on over 900 surface acres can satisfy the power boater, skier, or angler looking for a more remote experience. Aquatic Nuisance Species pre-inspection is required for boats prior to launching.

Boat registrations and renewals can be issued at the Yampa River State Park Visitor Center. (Updated: 5/26/2024 8:21 PM)

Camping

Camping at one of the nearly 50 developed sites allows easy access to many of the activities offered at the reservoir.

Sites at Bear’s Ears Campground or Pronghorn Campground can be reserved online at CPW.SHOP.COM or by calling (800) 244-5613.

For more information, see the Elkhead Reservoir camping page. (Updated: 4/5/2022 10:15 AM)

Dog-friendly

Dogs are welcome in the park as long as:

  • They are on a six-foot or shorter leash at all times
  • Their waste is properly disposed of

Dogs are not allowed in the water. (Updated: 5/24/2024 11:15 AM)

Fishing

Elkhead Reservoir is a warmwater fishery that contains Large and Small Mouth Bass, Tiger Muskie, Northern Pike, Crappie, Bluegill, and Catfish. (Updated: 4/23/2023 2:31 PM)

Hiking

Hike along one of a variety of trails that follow the lakeshore. Although many are short hikes, they can be very rewarding to the conscious viewer.

For more information, please call the Park Office at (970) 276-2061. (Updated: 3/9/2021 2:40 PM)

Hunting

Hunting is allowed after Labor Day during legal seasons in designated hunting areas only.

Waterfowl hunting is only allowed from the high-water mark of the shoreline and below.

All hunting regulations apply.

Check with the Park Office for questions or additional maps of hunting areas. (Updated: 1/18/2022 10:04 AM)

OHV Riding

OHV registrations and renewals can be issued at the Yampa River State Park Visitor Center. (Updated: 11/14/2019 2:32 PM)

Photography

Photo opportunities abound all around the reservoir. Whether of wildlife or plant life, there is a great shot waiting for you. (Updated: 11/14/2019 2:34 PM)

Picnicking

Picnic or BBQ at one of many day-use sites around the reservoir. (Updated: 3/9/2021 2:40 PM)

Snowmobiling

Snowmobile registrations and renewals can be issued at the Yampa River State Park Visitor Center. (Updated: 11/14/2019 2:32 PM)

Wildlife Viewing

There is always an opportunity for wildlife viewing in one of Colorado’s most abundantly rich wildlife areas. (Updated: 3/9/2021 2:41 PM)