About Ruedi Reservoir
Ruedi Dam and Reservoir, features of the Fryingpan Arkansas Project, are on the Fryingpan River about 15 miles east of Basalt, Colorado. Ruedi Dam is a rock and earthfill structure that stands about 285 feet high above streambed and has a crest length of 1,042 feet. The Reservoir is on the western slope of the Rocky Mountains, where snow-capped mountain peaks reach over 13,000 feet and the thickly forested slopes provide an exceptionally beautiful background for recreation activities. Recreation facilities consist of 4 campgrounds accommodating 81 campsites and 2 boat-launching ramps. Surface available for recreation includes 997 acres. Primary recreation activities include camping, motorized boating, sailing, and fishing. Access is good. Game fish species available include rainbow trout, brown trout, and mackinaw trout. Facilities closed in winter due to ice and snow. Current reservoir levels.
How to Get There
On the Fryingpan River about 15 miles east of Basalt, Colorado and 30 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Take State Road 82 about 30 miles south of Glenwood Springs to reach road leading to Basalt.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Ruedi Reservoir
Heading to Ruedi Reservoir? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Ruedi Reservoir?
No central reservation system listed for Ruedi Reservoir. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/91) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Ruedi Reservoir?
On the Fryingpan River about 15 miles east of Basalt, Colorado and 30 miles southeast of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Take State Road 82 about 30 miles south of Glenwood Springs to reach road leading to Basalt.
How do I contact Ruedi Reservoir?
You can reach the park at phone: 970-945-2521.
References & Official Resources
