Beaver Lake in Gunnison, Colorado, is a federally-owned recreational reservoir built in 1965 by the USDA Forest Service.
Wind
Humidity
The earth dam stands at 20 feet high, with a storage capacity of up to 75 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. The lake, fed by a branch of the Cimarron River, offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Beaver Lake is marked as a state-regulated water resource, subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Colorado Department of Water Resources. With a spillway width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge of 150 cubic feet per second, the reservoir is equipped to handle excess water flow. While the dam's condition assessment is currently unrated, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain undisclosed, suggesting precautionary measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Beaver Lake serves as a vital recreational site within the Albuquerque District, attracting visitors to its tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty. Managed and maintained by the Forest Service, the reservoir offers a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the harmonious coexistence of human development and environmental conservation in this picturesque corner of Colorado.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
85 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BRANCH OF CIMARRON RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Beaver Lake Campground - Ouray RD
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Beaver Lake
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Big Cimarron Campground - Ouray RD
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Big Cimarron
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Silver Jack
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Silver Jack Campground - Ouray RD
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