Recreation at Rifle Gap Dam and Reservoir, Silt Project, is managed by the Colorado Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation. The clear water at Rifle Gap Reservoir is excellent for scuba diving. Other water activities include boating, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, and w
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 970-625-1607 · rifle.gap.park@state.co.us
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Rifle Gap Reservoir — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Rifle Gap Reservoir?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Rifle Gap Reservoir. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you swim here?
Yes — swimming is available at Rifle Gap Reservoir. There are typically no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk and check conditions.
Yes Can you camp at Rifle Gap Reservoir?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Coulter Mesa State Trail, Rifle Gap Road North, East Cedar Mountain Road, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Rifle Gap Reservoir is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Nearby sites
Silt Mesa
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Jeffrey Beall / CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Land Management New Castle
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
