Crystal Reservoir - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Crystal Reservoir is a great place to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. The reservoir is open for fishing from 7am to 7pm and offers a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout. There is also a boat ramp for those who want to go boating or canoeing. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are hiking trails that offer beautiful views of the reservoir. There are also picnic tables and BBQ pits available for use. 

If you're looking for a more adrenaline-pumping adventure, you can try your hand at rafting or kayaking on the reservoir. And of course, there's always swimming and sunbathing if you just want to relax. In the winter, the area is transformed into a snowy paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

The lake was created in 1976 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation as part of a larger plan to impound the upper section of the Gunnison for the generation of hydroelectric power, water storage, and public recreation. Crystal Reservoir is managed by the National Park Service as an element of the Curecanti National Recreation Area.

The best time to visit Crystal Reservoir is in the spring or summer. The reservoir is located at an elevation of 9,000 feet, so the winters can be harsh. Even in the spring and summer, the days are often cool and the nights can be chilly. However, the weather is generally milder during these months and there is less chance of rain or snow.

1. There are no lifeguards on duty at the reservoir, so swimming is at your own risk. Please use caution and obey all posted signs.
2. Dogs are welcome at the reservoir but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
3. Take care not to damage the fragile vegetation around the lake shoreline. Please stay on designated trails and do not cut through vegetation areas.
4. There is no cell phone service available at the reservoir, so please plan accordingly. Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return.
5. Don't forget your fishing gear! Crystal Reservoir is home to a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. A valid Colorado fishing license is required.
6. Nature lovers will want to keep their binoculars handy - the reservoir is home to a number of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and herons.
7. The reservoir is open for camping from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. There are several campgrounds in the area, so be sure to make reservations early if you plan on camping during peak season.

1. Crystal Reservoir is the smallest, least developed, and least accessible of the three reservoirs within the park.
2. The dam was built to provide irrigation water for agriculture in the valley below.
3.  The reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including brown trout, rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon.
4. There are several campgrounds located around the reservoir, including Mesa Campground and Cimarron Campground.
5. Crystal Reservoir is part of the larger Dallas Creek Project, which includes six reservoirs and delivers water to irrigate over 42,000 acres of land.
6. The reservoir is located in an area of high seismic activity and has been affected by earthquakes in the past.
7. Crystal Reservoir is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and deer. Be sure to pack binoculars so you can get a closer look at these animals in their natural habitat.

The maximum time required to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of the reservoir is approximately four to six hours. 

The best way to reach it is by car. Take Highway 550 north from Montrose for about eight miles. Turn left on6800 Road and follow it for about two miles until you reach the reservoir.

The entrance fee to Crystal Reservoir is $3 per person.

The reservoir is open year-round, though the hours may vary depending on the season. In the winter, the reservoir is open from sunrise to sunset. In the summer, the hours are extended to allow for more activities in the evening.