Park Activities
Boating
In the summer, the crystal clear water of Harvey Gap Reservoir is a haven for water enthusiasts. The long, narrow reservoir is inviting to boating (20 H.P. or less), kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, and often has great conditions for sailing. Harvey Gap has one boat ramp on the east side of the lake.
Boaters be aware that you must stop and get your boat inspected for Aquatic Nuisance Species prior to launch. Visit the “Conditions” page for current boating information.
(Updated: 9/24/2023 10:07 AM)
Cross-country Skiing
During the winter months, cross-country skiing is a popular activity.
(Updated: 8/31/2023 11:03 AM)
Education Programs
(Updated: 8/31/2023 10:48 AM)
Fishing
Fishing at Harvey Gap is good during the summer and the winter. You can take catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch, crappie, rainbow trout, northern pike, and muskie. Check Conditions for current fishing conditions.
Special Regulations:
- Minimum size for largemouth bass is 15 inches.
- Bag possession limit for channel catfish is 2.
- Use of spearfishing, archery, and gigs for take of northern pike is prohibited.
ATTENTION: Tiger muskie have been reintroduced to the lake. These can look similar to northern pike. Please know the difference! Tiger muskie have a minimum size of 36” and a bag limit of 1. Talk to staff before fishing or refer to the signage posted in the park for more details. Violators will be ticketed.
(Updated: 8/31/2023 11:04 AM)
Hunting
Hunting is allowed 100 yards from any building or Day Use Area and 50 feet from the centerline of a roadway. Waterfowl hunting is available on the north side of the reservoir, and dogs are allowed off leash at the park only in that area and only during that time.
(Updated: 7/17/2021 10:05 AM)
Ice Fishing
Ice thicknesses vary across the reservoir as a whole, and can vary significantly even a few yards away. Ice rescue stations are located at popular areas around the lake, but nothing can provide for your safety like taking proper precautions and planning and preparing for the unexpected. Recommended items to bring along are ice awls, a life jacket, and a fishing buddy.
(Updated: 7/17/2021 10:05 AM)
Picnicking
Take in the beautiful views while you eat close to the water at Harvey Gap. The park has 30 picnic sites with grills. Many sites are in the shade. Please remember that fires are permitted only in the grills. The picnic areas have trash cans and restrooms. The picnic sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A group picnic site is available nearby at Rifle Gap State Park, which is six miles west of Harvey Gap. The park closes at 10 p.m. Please see the Harvey Gap map for locations.
(Updated: 7/17/2021 10:05 AM)
Snowshoeing
Harvey Gap offers a great opportunity to make your own trails. There is no designated trail system so use your imagination.
(Updated: 7/17/2021 10:06 AM)
Swimming
In the summer, the Harvey Gap Swim Beach is a great place to beat the heat. Swimming is allowed at the southeast end of the lake. There are shaded picnic tables with grills, trash cans, and restrooms. A park pass is required. For information on daily and annual park passes, please visit the Fees page.
(Updated: 8/31/2023 11:17 AM)
Winter Activities
Ice fishing is popular at Harvey Gap. Check the Conditions page for ice thickness. Conditions can change the opening and closing dates from year to year. Cold weather buffs can also cross-country ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile near the park.
(Updated: 7/17/2021 10:06 AM)