Elkhead Reservoir, body of water
Elkhead Reservoir is a large lake in northwest Colorado surrounded by rolling hills covered with sagebrush and rocky cliffs. The water covers about 900 acres, with over 2,000 acres of land around it that includes trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas, all managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
The dam was built in 1974 to provide water for the town of Craig and nearby power plants. Over time, it became a popular outdoor recreation and nature protection area, especially after upgrades in 2009 that added new roads, picnic spots, beaches, and camping facilities.
The reservoir takes its name from Elkhead Creek, the stream on which it was built. Locals and visitors alike come here to spend time in nature and observe wildlife in its natural setting. For many people, this place holds meaning as a spot for relaxation and for protecting the animals that live in the region.
The area is open year-round and has two campgrounds with a total of 42 sites, some with electricity and others without. It is wise to download maps before you arrive and bring enough water and supplies from Craig, as cell service is spotty and on-site services are limited.
The area has a collection of old tools, tractors, and vehicles that display the history of life before modern technology and help visitors connect with the local past. Volunteers maintain these artifacts and share stories about early explorers and ranchers who built the region.
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