Our reservoirs are vital to our water system, allowing us to store years worth of water supply and provide reliable water service.
Many of them are also open to the public for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. For the areas around our reservoirs to thrive and continue to benefit our community, please follow posted rules and be respectful of natural habitats.
North Slope Recreation Area
The North Slope Recreation Area (NSRA) on Pikes Peak is home to three reservoirs that are essential to the city’s water supply system – North Catamount, South Catamount and Crystal Creek Reservoirs.
We operate this area as a city watershed, while Pikes Peak America’s Mountain (PPAM) manages recreational activities and access in the NRSA. It typically opens May 1 and closes in mid-October.
Crystal Creek is the first reservoir you encounter when traveling up the Pikes Peak Highway. Continuing up the highway a little further, you will see the entrance to South Catamount and North Catamount Reservoirs on the right.
Visit Pikes Peak America’s Mountain to learn more about recreation opportunities.
NOTE: Access to South Catamount Reservoir is closed for the 2024-2025 seasons due to a dam rehabilitation project. Access to North Catamount Reservoir is hike-in only while work is underway.
South Slope Recreation Area
The South Slope watershed was Colorado Springs' first major water source, with development beginning in the late 1880s. It's a diverse and biologically rich landscape on the south side of Pikes Peak. A permit is required to access this area when it is open for the season.
This sensitive and rugged area provides a backcountry experience for visitors. It’s home to bighorn sheep, cutthroat trout and an array of migratory birds. Hiking and biking are allowed on trails, and fishing is only allowed in McReynolds and Mason Reservoirs with flies and lures only.
Please visit the city’s website for a full list of rules, hours, directions and permit information.
Rampart Reservoir
Rampart Reservoir is located northwest of Colorado Springs, a little more than four miles from Woodland Park.
Rampart is our largest reservoir. It stores water from our other systems and it also powers our Tesla Hydro Power Plant, generating electricity on its way to treatment for our customers.
It's also a popular recreation destination for fishing, boating and camping. The U.S. Forest Service manages recreation at Rampart Reservoir. Please visit its site for operating hours and more information.
Nichols Reservoir
Located directly below Rampart Reservoir, Nichols Reservoir is another opportunity for fishing. It's accessible by a 0.8 mile trail.
The U.S. Forest Service also manages recreation at this smaller lake. Please visit its site for information about fishing at this location.
Rosemont Reservoir
Rosemont Reservoir is located about an hour southwest of Colorado Springs, reached via Old Stage Road and Gold Camp Road. After you’ve parked, it’s about a half-mile hike/walk to the shoreline. Fishing is allowed with a valid license, but camping and swimming are prohibited.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages recreation at this reservoir, please visit its site for hours, activities, access and more.
Pikeview Reservoir
Pikeview Reservoir is a convenient angler’s find right here in our own city. It’s located off Mark Dabling Boulevard, just south of Garden of the Gods Road. Pikeview offers shore and dockside fishing. On some days, visitors might spot Great Blue Herons. Fishing is allowed with a valid license; however, camping and swimming are prohibited.
The reservoir is open as long as it’s not frozen.
Montgomery Reservoir
Located in Park County, Montgomery Reservoir is between Alma (north of Fairplay) and Hoosier Pass. This reservoir holds water sourced from the Colorado River Basin, as well as a small amount of supplies from the South Platte Basin. The Blue River Pipeline brings water from this reservoir toward Colorado Springs. Fishing is allowed with a valid license; however, camping and swimming are prohibited.
No fishing Dec. 1 - May 31 and as posted at the reservoir.