If you’re the type who likes to tote a boat on your RV adventures, you probably already know that Colorado has no shortage of phenomenal water recreation areas. 

Here are four fabulous boating destinations in Colorado:

Turquoise Lake, Leadville, CO

 

This gorgeous high-altitude lake was named for the rare turquoise deposits discovered near its shores. Turquoise Lake — a deep blue rather than a tropical turquoise — is a must-visit for those who love to fish. Catch rainbow trout, brook trout, and brown trout from your boat or from the onshore fishing site at the 19th-century dam that turned Turquoise Lake into one of Colorado’s favorite lake destinations. Be warned: this alpine lake is mighty chilly, and daytime temps usually stay around 80 degrees F. Swimmers and windsurfers might want to pack a wetsuit. Sailors, kayakers, and canoers flock to Turquoise Lake every summer, and those who fish can enjoy the lake year-round, as it always freezes over for great ice fishing. Land lovers can hike, mountain bike, or simply chill on the pretty beaches.

 

Blue Mesa Reservoir, Gunnison, CO

 

Stocked with literally millions of fish, the 29-mile-long Blue Mesa Reservoir is a boating mecca with incredible narrow canyon views. The reservoir was created by constructing the Blue Mesa Dam on the Gunnison River in 1966, and ever since, it’s been one of Colorado’s favorite water recreation destinations. Sailing, fishing, waterskiing, power boating, and windsurfing are all happy pastimes here, although the water (fed by thawing snow) is a bit too frigid for swimming until the last days of summer. Afternoon winds and storms can be dangerous on Blue Mesa, so keep an eye out for ominous cloud clusters. Visitors can enjoy amazing hikes, horseback rides, camping, and boat tours or just explore the rocky shoreline. 

 

Lake Granby, Granby, CO

 

Lake Granby’s 40 miles of spectacular shoreline are a paradise for any water-loving adventurers. Bring your own craft, or rent a boat for a day or a few hours to explore the lake or fish. The 7200-acre lake is full of kokanee salmon as well as trout, which makes it a top-rated fishing destination. You can also hire a local guide to make the most out of your fishing expedition. Don’t forget to procure a Colorado fishing license first, though. Kayaking is another popular sport on Lake Granby. There are also fantastic mountain hiking trails and more than 250 campsites on or near the shoreline. Granby, just five miles away, is a charming town perfect for strolling, so there’s something here for everyone in your RV crew.

 

Grand Lake, Grand Lake, CO

 

Flanked by the magnificent Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is grand indeed, boasting the title of the largest, deepest natural body of water in Colorado. The lake is pristine, fed by the Colorado River headwaters and the snowmelt sliding off the Continental Divide. It’s boating heaven here: pontoons, kayaks, paddle boats, pleasure boats, fishing boats, sailboats, you name it, they’re all out on Grand Lake. You can rent or bring your own, thanks to the public access points to the lake. All sorts of trout, as well as kokanee salmon, are plentiful year-round, too. Sign up for an ice-fishing contest in the winter, or enjoy the annual mid-August Regatta Week—there’s always plenty to do and see at Grand Lake.

Are you searching for more boating destinations in Colorado? Try these excellent links—you’ll never run out of adventures.

https://www.thedenverear.com/psst-9-best-colorado-lakes-and-reservoirs-for-boating/

https://www.westword.com/arts/get-outside-ten-colorado-boating-destinations-views-14634660

https://www.boatsetter.com/boating-resources/lakes-in-colorado-for-boating

Have a Blast Boating in Colorado! 

Taking your boat out on the water at any of these four destinations is a recipe for a great time! When you’re all tired out and ready to get out of the sun, Castle RV Storage is the perfect place to store your boat and RV. Take your toys off the road and store them somewhere safe, secure, and convenient. 

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