Curecanti National Recreation Area
The Curecanti National Recreation Area covers a total area of about 43,000 acres of land that is located in west-central Colorado and accessible through US 50, which runs the entire length of the recreation area between Gunnison and Montrose.
The land where the recreational area sits is about 200 miles southwest of Denver. Management of the park is held under a cooperative agreement by both the National Park Service and the Bureau of Reclamation. This agreement has held since February 11, 1965, when the recreational area was established.
Several attractions make this recreational area a tremendous place to visit. First, the protected area has three lakes including Blue Mesa Reservoir, Morrow Point Reservoir, and Crystal reservoir. These reservoirs extend about 40 miles along the Gunnison River. These three reservoirs each have outstanding qualities.
Blue Mesa Reservoir covers a total area of about 14 square miles and is the largest lake in Colorado when it is full of water. Morrow Point Reservoir is the beginning of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison while the lower part of Crystal reservoir is the location of the Gunnison Diversion Tunnel which is a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
Besides these attractions, the recreational area is also a favorite among visitors that love recreational activities like fishing, camping, swimming, hunting, hiking, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, snowmobiling, boating, interpretive programs, bird-watching, and boat tours.
Visitors to the Curecanti National Recreation Area will also appreciate some of the conveniences in the park including restrooms, campgrounds, groceries, boat ramp, visitor centers, picnic area, boat rental, self-guided tour, restaurant, and exhibit.
Dogs are also allowed into Curecanti National Recreation Area which means that you can bring your pooch along for the fun. That said, you will be restricted from visiting some areas including the park buildings. You will also be required to keep your dog on a leash at all times.
