Beaver Park, located in South Fork, Colorado, is a state-regulated recreational area built around Beaver Creek.
Wind
Humidity
This picturesque park features a rockfill dam standing at 114 feet tall, completed in 1912, which creates a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 4,746 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife habitat, irrigation, and of course, recreation, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
With a surface area of 130 acres and a drainage area of 47 square miles, Beaver Park offers a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. The dam's spillway, though uncontrolled, is 160 feet wide, ensuring safe water release during high discharge events. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with regular inspections and maintenance conducted to ensure public safety and continued enjoyment of the park.
Visitors to Beaver Park can marvel at the engineering feat of the rockfill dam, appreciate the critical role it plays in water management for the region, and experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With a rich history dating back over a century, this recreational haven continues to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Colorado's Rio Grande County.
Year Completed |
1912 |
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
114 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
130 |
Hydraulic Height |
108 |
Drainage Area |
47 |
Nid Storage |
9394 |
Structural Height |
114 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
114 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Upper Beaver Creek Campground
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Upper Beaver Creek
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Cross Creek
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Lower Beaver Creek Campground
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Lower Beaver Creek
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Highway Springs
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