McPhee Reservoir

McPhee Reservoir Review

In 1968, state officials approved the construction of an irrigation dam across the Dolores River, forming the McPhee Reservoir, the second largest in the state. It draws anglers looking to bag a variety of warm- and cold-water fish along its 50 mi of shoreline, which is surrounded by spectacular specimens of juniper and sage as well as large stands of pinyon pine. There's a boat ramp and a generous fish-cleaning station. The area also has camping, hiking, and a relatively easy mountain-bike trail, and the mesa offers panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan National Forest.