Paonia Reservoir is the center piece of the park, and is fed by Muddy, Williams and Deep Creeks. The park covers 1,507 acres total, with 337 surface acres of reservoir. Wildlife abounds here, so take proper precautions.

The facilities in the park are rustic. Two campgrounds provide 15 sites that include tables and fire rings. Vault toilets are available at both campgrounds. No drinking water or other supplies are provided, so come prepared for primitive camping conditions. A picnic ground and boat ramp are located on the eastern shore of the lake.

Most visitors to Paonia State Park come for the boating in a beautiful, mountainous setting. Water skiing, sailing and jet skiing are also popular activities during the summer months. The fishing is mediocre in the lake due to large amounts of silt from Muddy Creek. Below the dam, where Anthracite and Muddy Creeks meet, fly fishing is good. Hiking in the park is very limited, but the the surrounding National Forest lands provide ample terrain.

To get there from Glenwood Springs, take Colorado Highway 82 south to Carbondale, then south and southwest on Colorado Highway 133 for 46 miles to the park. From Delta, take Highway 92 east to Hotchkiss, then go north on Highway 133 through Paonia and 16 miles farther to the park.

To Contact the Park Write or Call:
Paonia State Park
P.O. Box 147
Crawford, CO 81415
(970) 921-5721