What to Know About Dillon Reservoir Before You Go
Want to visit Dillon Reservoir? This large freshwater reservoir in Summit County, Colorado, also sometimes known as Lake Dillon, is just outside of Denver. The reservoir itself is owned and operated by Denver water, and serves as a popular recreation area.
Dillion Reservoir is perfect for day trips to escape the heat of Denver in the summer and enjoy a fun-filled time outdoors. If you want to visit and want to learn more about Dillion Reservoir, find out the things you need to know about the Dillon Reservoir before you go!
Where is Dillon Reservoir?
Dillon Reservoir is located between Frisco and Dillon in Summit County, CO. It?s 70 miles from downtown Denver, 9 miles from Breckenridge, and 28 miles from Vail. All in all, it?s about an hour?s drive from Denver.
It?s encircled by the Swan Mountain and the Gore and Ten Mile Mountain ranges. The Reservoir covers 3,300 acres with 25 miles of pine-forested shoreline. This makes it a perfect location to experience nature just outside of the city and enjoy both the water and the mountains!
What is the History of Dillon Reservoir?
Dillon Reservoir is owned & operated by the Denver Water Board, and it is the largest water storage facility for the organization.
The Dillon Dam was built between 1961 and 1963, with the reservoir being filled with water for the first time in 1964.
Water is diverted from the Blue River Basin through the Harold D. Roberts Tunnel under the Continental Divide into the South Platte River Basin and Denver?s storage facilities on the Front Range.
What Is There to Do at Dillon Reservoir?
The recreational facilities at Dillon Reservoir include:
- Two full-service marinas ? Dillon and Frisco Bay
- Two boat launching sites
- National forest campgrounds for R.V. and tent camping
Boating and fishing are two of the most popular activities on Dillon Reservoir, but there?s a lot more to explore. There are 325 campsites for camping, 12 miles of paved trails within the Dillon Recreation Area for hiking or bicycling, and designated areas for waterfowl hunting.
What Are Some Rules & Regulations at Dillon Reservoir?
There are a few rules and regulations for everyone to follow at Dillon Reservoir for personal safety and to protect the area. Here are a few things to be aware of:
- There is a 30-mph speed limit for all boat vessels traveling on the water
- Wakeboarding, waterskiing, paraskiing, paragliding, and parasailing are prohibited
- Campfires are only allowed to campsite locations where fireplace grills and fire rings have been provided
- Is Dillon Reservoir dog friendly? Pets are allowed, but must be kept on a leash and cleaned up after.
- Due to cold temperatures, wading and swimming in the water is prohibited
The Summit County Sherriff?s Department patrols the water surface and campgrounds to enforce these rules and ensure the safety of all those who visit Dillon Reservoir.
What?s the Best Way to See Dillon Reservoir?
Adventure Paddle Tours offers guided kayak tours out of the Frisco Bay Marina on the Dillon Reservoir.
Our expert guides can help you navigate through the waters and see the mountains, wildlife, and experience the beautiful scenery the area has to offer. Our tours are true eco tours that are rooted in conservation, designed for small groups to give you that intimate nature experience.
We have a range of tours available to suit your groups needs! Click here to take a look at our guided kayak tours offered in the Dillon Reservoir and book with us today.
