MANCOS STATE PARK
Mancos State Park in Southwestern Colorado is a haven for the year-round outdoor enthusiast and traveler.
In the spring, summer and fall, canoeists, kayakers and wakeless power boaters enjoy the calm waters of Jackson Gulch Reservoir. In the winter depending on conditions there are great opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. Fishing enthusiasts enjoy excellent fishing for yellow perch and rainbow trout.
Located in southwestern Colorado, the park was established in 1987. It spans over 5,000 acres and includes Jackson Gulch Reservoir. The area is known for its archaeological significance due to nearby Ancestral Puebloan sites at Mesa Verde National Park.
The reservoir's construction began during World War II as part of a larger irrigation project under President Roosevelt's Bureau of Reclamation initiative. Completed post-war in 1948, it became an integral feature within the park boundaries.
In addition to water-based activities like fishing and boating facilitated by this man-made lake, visitors enjoy camping amidst ponderosa pine forests or exploring hiking trails that offer panoramic views of La Plata Mountains.
Over time wildlife conservation has become another key focus with efforts made towards preserving habitats for species such as elk and mule deer alongside various bird types including ospreys and eagles.
All Colorado State Parks have entrance fees. All vehicles are required to have an entrance pass and some parks have walk-in fees. Visit the
Colorado Park Entrance Pass web page.
The park has two campgrounds Main and West on two sides of the reservoir with a total of 32 campsites. Along the northwest side of the reservoir, the west campground has nine campsites primarily for tent campers with toilets but no drinking water nearby.
Share Your Mancos State Park Photos (click here)
