Rifle Gap State Park, Colorado River Valley Travel Guide

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Discover Rifle Gap State Park: A Colorado paradise for water sports, camping, and outdoor adventures amidst stunning natural beauty.

Rifle Gap State Park, nestled near Rifle, Colorado, is a 1,341-acre haven featuring a 360-acre reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Established in 1966, the park offers a blend of water recreation and scenic beauty, attracting visitors year-round.

A brief summary to Rifle Gap State Park

5775 CO-325, Rifle, Colorado, 81650, US
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Monday 8 am-4 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
Thursday 8 am-4 pm
Friday 8 am-4 pm
Saturday 8 am-4 pm
Sunday 8 am-4 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Rifle Gap State Park.

Arrive early during peak season to secure a campsite or picnic spot, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Bring sunscreen and a hat, as shade can be limited, especially during midday.
Check the fishing conditions and regulations before heading out to the reservoir.
Visit the park's visitor center for information on trails, activities, and local wildlife.

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Explore Rifle Gap State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Rifle Gap State Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From I-70, take the Rifle exit (Exit 90) and head north on Highway 13 for approximately four miles. When the road forks, stay to the right on Highway 13. Turn right onto Highway 325, and Rifle Gap State Park will be about six miles ahead. A daily vehicle pass costs $10-$12. Parking is available throughout the park.
Public Transport

From Denver, you can take the Bustang bus to Rifle. From the Rifle bus stop, you will need to take a taxi or ride-share service to the park, which is about 9 miles away. Taxi/ride-share will cost approximately $20-$30. A daily vehicle pass costs $10-$12.

Discover more about Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap State Park, a gem in Garfield County, Colorado, invites outdoor enthusiasts to experience its diverse offerings. Established in 1966, the park's centerpiece is the 360-acre Rifle Gap Reservoir, providing ample opportunities for boating, fishing, waterskiing, and swimming. The reservoir was completed in 1968 to provide irrigation to farmers and ranchers in the Rifle area.The park's history is tied to the small town of Austin, which was relocated in 1958 to make way for the reservoir. Today, Rifle Gap State Park is a popular destination for camping, with 89 campsites available, as well as picnicking. The park's varied landscape, from pinyon-juniper woodlands to sagebrush shrubland, supports a range of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and various bird species.Visitors can explore the area's geology, with the park lying on the edge of the White River Plateau and offering views of the Grand Hogback. Fossils of leaves, fish, and shellfish can be found in the exposed Mancos Shale. The park's visitor center provides information, first aid, and other amenities. Whether it's water sports in the summer or ice fishing in the winter, Rifle Gap State Park offers a memorable outdoor experience.