Dillon Reservoir (Giberson Bay)

Type … Drive-up

Highlights … Views, Lake, Beach

Seasons … Summer + Fall

Closest Town … Dillon

Shade … Not Much

Parking Situation … Limited

Potty Situation … No Potty

Map/Location… Google Map HERE

If you’re local, you probably drive past Dillon Reservoir often on the way to other places. It’s such a gorgeous place (and so huge!) that I was determined to find an easy place to park the fam for a day trip. The Giberson Bay day use area is exactly what I was looking for - it’s right off i70 so quick to get to, has a sandy beach, minimal crowds, and low boating activity.

We love to paddle board, and I like Giberson Bay for this activity because it’s in a bit of an inlet so the water stays a bit calmer in this area and there aren’t as many boats zipping around. There are also a series of little islands that you can paddle around and pull up to when the water level is low enough to expose the land. This is definitely a highlight for my kids - to get off on one of these islands and explore.

DRIVE-UP TIPS

  • Minimal Shade here. Pack the sunscreen because there aren’t many areas on the beach with shade.

  • Be mindful of the wind when paddle boarding. The wind can pick up at Dillon Reservoir quickly, and it’s such a big body of water that a mellow paddle boarding trip can turn dangerous quickly. Please pack and wear your life jackets. They are required on Dillon anyway :)

  • Bring your sand toys! This area has a ton of sand and is a great place for beach toys.

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Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir

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Eldorado Canyon State Park