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Colorado State Parks
Parks > Stagecoach State Park > Boating

Boating

​​​​​​Stagecoach is equipped with two boat launches, both with ample parking for vehicles and trailers.

Main Boat Ramp

Located on the north shore of the reservoir near Pinnacle Campground, the ramp is serviced by the marina and gas dock offering rentals, as well as basic fishing and camping supplies.

Second Boat Ramp

Located in the Morrison Cove area, this ramp offers picnic areas and vault toilets.

Aquatic Nuisance Species Inspections

To boat on the reservoir, an aquatic nuisance species (ANS) stamp, current boat registration and a pre-launch boat inspection at the boat ramp is required.

Vessels and other floating devices that are both hand-launched and human-powered are exempt from mandatory ANS inspections. Although, the public is strongly encouraged to self-inspect their watercrafts, boots, waders, and fishing equipment by making sure that all equipment is clean, drained, and dry. For instructions, see Clean Your Gear.

Learn more about aquatic nuisance species.

Contact the park at (970) 736-2436 for current inspection hours.

(Updated: 5/30/2025 2:25 PM MT)

Safety, Rules and Regulations

  • A PFD, more commonly known as a life jacket, is required for each person on a boat. PFD’s have to fit properly and be in serviceable condition. Remember that a PFD is not useful if it cannot be reached.
  • Buoys on the surface of the reservoir designate wakeless areas. However, a generous portion of the reservoir is available for boating and skiing activities. To view the buoy layout of the reservoir, please see the park brochure & map. Maps are also located at each boat ramp.
  • A sand swimming beach is a favorite for families and is located near Pinnacle Campground.
  • Swimming is allowed only in the designated swim beach area. Water-skiing is allowed only in designated areas.
  • Boats towing skiers must keep 150 feet from shore and must have an observer on board in addition to the operator.
  • Ski patterns are counterclockwise.
  • Boaters are subject to current Colorado boating statutes and regulations available at the entrance station or park office.

Rusty Crayfish Alert

Rusty crayfish have been detected in the reservoir at Stagecoach. They are not native to Colorado and are a larger, more aggressive freshwater crayfish than our native crayfish. Their aggressiveness and high metabolic rates allow them to destroy aquatic plants, causing decreased plant abundance and diversity. Native crayfish are susceptible to bacteria and viruses which could be introduced by the rusty crayfish.

Learn more about stopping the spread of Rusty Crayfish.

(Updated: 5/30/2025 2:30 PM MT)

Boat registrations are available at the park office.