Blue Mesa Reservoir
Blue Mesa Reservoir in Colorado is the state’s largest impoundment, famed for trout fishing and scenic high-desert landscapes just east of the Gunnison River; access points near Gunnison and Curecanti National Recreation Area, with boat ramps, camping, and year-round angling.
Learn More
Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Western United States |
| Subregion | Rocky Mountain Plateau |
| Country | United States |
| State | Colorado |
| County | Gunnison County |
| District | Blue Mesa Dam and Reservoir |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 38.4708 |
| Longitude | -107.0189 |
| Maps |
7:13 PM LOCAL TIMEBlue Mesa Reservoir is Colorado’s largest reservoir by surface area, nestled on the Colorado Plateau east of Gunnison and dammed by Blue Mesa Dam. It spans nearly 48 km² of high-desert terrain; water levels fluctuate seasonally but provide abundant trout habitat — notably brook, rainbow, and cutthroat subspecies. The reservoir and its shoreline are focal points for float fishing, cabin boat camping, and access to upstream reaches of the Gunnison River; campgrounds, boat ramps, and reservoir shoreline visitability are based at or near Curecanti National Recreation Area and Gunnison-area access points. Weather is typically dry and variable, with cold winters and warm, low-humidity summers, requiring layered gear for boaters and anglers. Recreation is year-round; shoreline fishing is popular in winter when inflows decline but check for winter limitations or road closures due to snow. Besides fishing, the area offers wildlife viewing, minimal hiking along shoreline access points, and off-site activities at nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Gunnison-area towns.
All content was written by our AI and may contain a few mistakes. We may earn commissions on some links. Last updated: Sun Dec 14, 2025, 2:55 AM