Lemon Dam

Lemon Dam is an embankment dam across the Florida River in La Plata County, creating a reservoir spanning several hundred acres. The water serves both irrigation for farmland and drinking water supply for the surrounding region.

The dam was completed in 1963, replacing the former Lemon Ranch location to provide irrigation water for regional agriculture. The project was part of broader efforts to manage water supply during dry seasons across southwestern Colorado.

The dam's presence has transformed the regional water management practices, enabling farmers to maintain consistent crop production throughout varying weather conditions.

The area has several campgrounds directly along the water and easy boat ramps for watercraft access. The best times for fishing are late spring and early summer when water temperatures are more favorable.

The waters contain populations of brown trout, rainbow trout, and Kokanee salmon that attract anglers from across the region. These fish species thrive in the cool elevation of southwestern Colorado and make this a destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Location: La Plata County

GPS coordinates: 37.38240,-107.66000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:42