Rio Blanco Lake State Wildlife Area
Rio Blanco Lake just west of Meeker is the best lake in the area for waterbirds and shorebirds, and is definitely worth a visit during the spring and fall. The best area for shorebirds is along the north shore when water is low, especially in the northeastern corner, where there is also a small marshy area. Several species of finches, flycatchers, and warblers may be found in the cottonwoods and shrubs between the lake and the river, and Great Blue Herons nest in the cottonwoods east of the lake. While driving to or from the lake, keep an eye out for Bald Eagles and Sandhill Cranes, especially during the spring and fall.
Restrictions: Big game archery hunting only. Roselund unit is day use only.
County: Rio Blanco
Directions: Rio Blanco Lake is 18.5 miles west of Meeker on CO 64.
Alternate Directions: From Meeker, head west on CO 64 for 18.5 miles to the lake, on the left.
Habitat: Pond/Lake/Reservoir, Lowland Riparian
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours:
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: A valid hunting or fishing license, or State Wildlife Area pass is required for everyone 16 or older accessing any state wildlife area or state trust lands.
Parking: Gravel parking areas
Lodging: Primitive camping
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Car birding
Delorme: 23 D7
ROC: 50 A2
Latitude: 40.09123
Longitude: -108.20805
Contact Information
Area CPW Office: Meeker, (970) 878-6090
Visit the Website for Rio Blanco Lake State Wildlife Area »
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L267480