Summary
Located in the southwestern part of the state, the park is situated in an area of stunning natural beauty, surrounded by mountains, valleys, and forests.
One of the main attractions of the park is the reservoir, which spans over 1,000 acres and is perfect for water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The park also boasts numerous trails for hiking and biking, including the popular Ridgway Area Trails System, which offers over 14 miles of trails for all skill levels.
In addition to outdoor activities, Ridgway State Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, deer, bald eagles, and coyotes. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Ridgway, which offers a range of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, such as the Ridgway Railroad Museum.
The best time to visit Ridgway State Park depends on the desired activity. The park is open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience. Summer is the most popular season for water activities and camping, while fall is perfect for hiking and enjoying the vibrant fall foliage. Winter is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and spring brings beautiful wildflowers and the opportunity to spot newborn wildlife.
Overall, Ridgway State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, it offers something for everyone.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ridgway State Park
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Buckhorn Lakes Dispersed Campsites
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Four J Campground
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Beaver Lake
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Silver Jack Campground - Ouray RD
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Silver Jack
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Silver Jack Reservoir
Beaver Lake Day Use Area/ Fishing Site
Silver Jack Fisherman Access