The best time to visit Big Meadows is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. It is advisable to check with the park authorities or visit their official website for reservation details and availability. Booking in advance ensures a stress-free experience and guarantees a spot during peak times. Reservations are highly recommended to secure a spot at Big Meadows camping area, as it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, Big Meadows provides disabled access, making it accessible for all visitors. With multiple independent sources confirming its offerings, campers can expect clean restrooms, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and ample parking spaces. This campground offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay amidst the stunning natural surroundings. The facilities are very well maintained and generally reported to be very clean.Big Meadows camping area, located in the beautiful state of Colorado, is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. On the left, there is an additional parking lot with access to the picnic area, campground, and fishing site. Follow the South Fork of the Rio Grande River for approximately 1-mile southwest to reach a fork in the road.įrom the fork, hang a right to quickly access the boat launch. About 13 miles south of Pagosa Springs, look for the turn-off onto Co Rd 410. The Big Meadows Reservoir SWA can be easily accessed between South Fork and Pagosa Springs, along State Highway 160 near Wolf Creek Pass. Swimming: Swimming is permitted in the Big Meadow Reservoir, but be warned, the high elevation water can be quite cold even in peak summer months. A small fee is required for visitors to park and use the national forest facilities. Picnicking: The Big Meadows Reservoir day-use picnic area is located adjacent to the campground and lake. Hiking & Horseback Riding: From the Big Meadows Reservoir Campground, hikers and horseback riders can explore the Archuleta Trail, which ventures six miles into the Weminuche Wilderness, Colorado’s largest designated wilderness area. In the winter, ice fishing is permitted with road access via snowmobile or nordic skis. The Big Meadows Reservoir is stocked with a variety of fish species, and anglers usually report good fishing conditions for kokanee salmon as well as brown, rainbow, and brook trout. A handicapped-accessible fishing pier access is available on the north side of the lake. Although some campsites are first come first served, reservations can be also made in advance for select spots.įishing: Licensed fishing is permitted in the Big Meadows Reservoir as well as its surrounding creeks and streams. Thanks to sparkling clean facilities, good fishing conditions, and stunning mountain views, the Big Meadows Campground is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Drinking water and vault toilets are available in the campground with picnic tables and campfire rings provided at each site. Most often, the reservoir is enjoyed by small boats, stand-up paddleboards, and those fishing from kayaks and canoes.Ĭamping: The Big Meadows Reservoir Campground contains 3 loops of individual and group campsites, most of which feature shade, seasonal wildflowers, and views of the lake. The area’s flowing waters also help attract a lot of wildlife species like elk, deer, hares, marmots, chipmunks, and other Colorado critters.īoating: The Big Meadows Reservoir SWA boat launch is located on the northeast side of the lake, with both motorized and non-motorized boating permitted on the water. Waterbirds such as brown pelicans may also arrive from time to time. Photo: davedudeīirding and Wildlife: In the mixed conifer forest around the Big Meadows Reservoir, birders are likely to spot Rocky Mountain favorites such as grosbeaks, warblers, chickadees, magpies, sapsuckers, woodpeckers, and more.
With this, expect crowds during weekends and holidays throughout peak seasons. The Big Meadows Reservoir is one of the best ways to enjoy a few pristine summer moments in the San Juan Mountains, with quick access in any passenger vehicle. Immediately adjacent, the campground and picnic area are both located in the Rio Grande National Forest, where day use and overnight fees apply.
#BIG MEADOWS WEATHER LICENSE#
The SWA occupies roughly 117 acres of Mineral County, Colorado, all of which surround the 600-acre reservoir for which it is named.Īll visitors aged 16 and up are required to purchase a State Wildlife Area pass or carry a valid Colorado hunting or fishing license to access the water at the Big Meadows Reservoir SWA. Surrounded by the Weminuche Wilderness of the Rio Grande National Forest, the Big Meadows State Wildlife Area is a popular, scenic spot for boating, fishing, and camping.
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