Lake with glowing sunset

McPhee Reservoir Vacation Rentals

McPhee Reservoir

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McPhee Reservoir
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Why Rent On McPhee Reservoir

Stretching across Montezuma County, McPhee Reservoir is southwest Colorado’s largest body of water and a cornerstone of the Dolores Project, completed in 1985. This high desert reservoir holds the stories of the submerged town of McPhee, a once-thriving lumber hub that provided over half the state’s lumber by 1927. Today, the 4,470-acre lake offers boating, waterskiing, and fishing for smallmouth bass, crappie, and trout. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the McPhee Recreation Area provides boat launches, scenic overlooks, and shady campgrounds. Its sandstone rimmed coves and quiet inlets offer a striking contrast to the nearby San Juan National Forest, while archaeological sites of the ancestral Puebloans add rich historical context to your visit.

Best time to go
Late spring, especially May, invites you to McPhee Reservoir, where the warm sun glimmers on the tranquil waters, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Fewer visitors and vibrant wildflowers create an idyllic escape, allowing nature's symphony to serenade your senses.
Water Quality
McPhee Reservoir's water exhibits a deep blue hue, reflecting the surrounding mountainous terrain. The water clarity is crystal-clear, offering excellent visibility for fishing and boating activities.
Surface area (mi)
11.25
Max depth (ft)
270.01
Elevation (ft)
6929.13
Shoreline length (mi)
50

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what McPhee Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in McPhee Reservoir. The water is quite cold, around 60° in the summer, but it is refreshing.

  • McPhee Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities. It has fifty miles of shoreline, allowing for boating, canoeing, fishing, and camping. The area also features picnic areas, boat-launching facilities, and campgrounds with electric hook-ups, making it suitable for year-round recreation.

  • In McPhee Reservoir, the minimum size for largemouth and smallmouth bass is 15 inches. You can catch up to 5 bass of each species, with a total aggregate of 10 fish. For trout, the daily bag limit is 4 fish and the possession limit is 8 fish. Walleye must be at least 18 inches long.

  • There are no designated dog-friendly beaches at McPhee Reservoir, but the area is generally dog-friendly. You can take your dog to the water’s edge, though the water levels can be quite low, making access a bit challenging.

  • The closest town to McPhee Reservoir in Colorado is Dolores. The reservoir is located near Dolores, accessible via state highways 145 and 184. It is a short drive from the town, making it a convenient base for visiting the reservoir.