Vega State Park and Reservoir
This large mountain reservoir on the east end of the Grand Mesa isn’t particularly good for waterbirds, but is surrounded by montane shrubland and aspen forests that make for a good visit. It is also a nice cool place to relax during the summer months. There are several Purple Martin colonies near here, and the martins can sometimes be seen over the lake or in the large aspen stands not far to the south. Ospreys have recently begun breeding on the artificial nesting platforms near the lake. In the montane shrubland look for Virginia’s Warbler, Dusky Flycatcher, Green-tailed Towhee, and Western Scrub-Jay, while the aspen woodland has birds such as Down Woodpecker, Red-naped Sapsucker, Dusky Grouse (if you’re lucky), Mountain Bluebird, and Violet-green Swallow. If you’re here during spring or fall migration you may see a few waterbirds on the lake, and if you visit during the winter months look for winter finches. Elk, mule deer, and yellow-bellied marmot are all common in and around the park.
Restrictions: Please observe quite hours from 10 pm to 6 am.
County: Mesa
Attractions: Horse corrals adjacent to the cabins on USFS property, call Vega Visitor center to reserve.
Directions: Situated on the north flank of Grand Mesa, 11 miles east of Collbran via Colorado Highway 330 and Mesa County Road 64.5. Vega has camping, a nature trail, picnic areas, and a loop drive around the reservoir. Call 970-487-3407 or e-mail vega.park@state.co.us.
Alternate Directions: From Grand Junction, head east on I-70 to exit 49. Take CO 65 for 10 miles and continue east on CO 330. Go 16 miles to Peninsula Road (CR 64.6) and turn right. The park entrance is in 4 miles.
Habitat: Reservoir, Aspen Grove, Scrub Oak Forest
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours:
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: State Parks Pass
Parking: Parking areas
Lodging: Camping and cabins
Handicapped: No
Handicapped Access: Handicap accessible facilities and camping; some car birding
Delorme: 44 C3
ROC: 83 D1
Latitude: 39.21563
Longitude: -107.81463