News Release

Curecanti Low Reservoir Levels and Operational Changes

Date: June 1, 2026

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GUNNISON, Colo. – Low winter snowpack and limited spring precipitation have resulted in low water levels on the Blue Mesa Reservoir. As the water level continues to drop, boat ramps and marinas Elk Creek, Lake Fork, and Iola will be impacted. Based on current conditions, park staff will be taking the following adaptive actions when reservoir elevations reach the following levels:
 

• At 7450’, Elk Creek Marina will be reconfigured to allow for continued operation.
• At 7448’, Lake Fork boat ramp will not be safe for trailer launches. Launching and retrieving will shift to Elk Creek only. Lake Fork Marina will remain open and accessible.
• At 7443’, the Lake Fork Marina walkway needs to be pulled to safe storage. Lake Fork Marina will continue to operate in modified location.
• At 7440’, large vessels with deep drafts will need to be retrieved at Elk Creek ramp.
• At 7435’, vessels less than 20’, or with shallow drafts, will need to be retrieved from Elk Creek ramp. The Elk Creek Marina will move to a deep-water, infrastructure-protection position. Blue Mesa Reservoir will be open only to day-use of motorized boats, with an Aquatic Invasive Species inspection.
• At 7429’, Lake Fork Marina will move to deep-water, infrastructure protection position.

Reservoir water level information can be found at www.nps.gov/cure/planyourvisit/reservoir_levels.

Boaters may launch boats from the shoreline, but caution is advised due to potential for unknown hazards. Watercraft inspections are required for all trailered and motorized boats and will continue to be available at Elk Creek and Lake Fork, seven days a week.

For information on watercraft regulations visit https://www.nps.gov/cure/learn/management/superintendents-compendium.htm.

Curecanti advises visitors to use caution on the reservoirs this season as low water levels can create rapidly changing conditions. Boaters are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed before and during their visit. Current information on boat ramps, marina services, reservoir water levels, and safety tips is available at www.nps.gov/cure/planyourvisit/boating.

Curecanti National Recreation Area continues to offer a wide range of recreational opportunities. Visitors can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by remaining aware of changing conditions and boating responsibly. 

For more information is available on each park’s website: www.nps.gov/cure.

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