Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, Vallecito Reservoir provides an allure for all walks of life. When you step onto the dock at the Vallecito Marina, it feels like a place where everyone knows your name. A scenic 25-mile drive from the heart of Durango, a pontoon boat is parked in the Marina, waiting to sweep anyone off their feet and onto the water.
“You can come camp, hike, fish, or take a boat ride,” said Raelynn Elkins, manager of Vallecito Marina. “There’s something for everyone.”
If you don’t have a group for a pontoon ride, paddle boards, kayaks, and fishing boats are available to rent. The Marina is open from May to late September when the days are long and the sun is high. What could be better than a long summer day on the water? The number of returning families year after year proves there’s no better way.
“We have a lot of repeat customers,” Elkins explained. “They come up for two or three weeks and return every year.”
With cabins and campground sites available in the surrounding area, it’s the perfect place to get the whole crew together. And, depending on the size of the crew, getting out on the water is a breeze. The Marina’s pontoon fleet consists of boats fitting one to 12 passengers. The boats have luxury seating, a Bluetooth stereo, and fish finder electronics. Life vests are included. You’re good to go as long as the captain has a driver’s license.
“People bring their fishing poles and their dogs and come and spend a couple hours and float around,” Elkins added.
Vallecito regularly stocks the lake with big, hungry fish on the hunt for a tasty worm. Additionally, the reservoir supports a healthy walleye and bass habitat alongside colorful trout species. Most anglers return from their day on the water sporting picture-worthy catches or, at the very least, a grin from ear to ear.
Buy a fishing license at the Marina, and the friendly folks can answer any of your questions.
“We have turned into an information hub in many ways, too,” Elkins said.
Paddle boards and kayaks are ideal for solitude. Around every bend of the reservoir, there’s a new setting to explore. Dodge the anglers as you cool down under the intense mountain sun.
“Sometimes you need a little breath of fresh air and some peace and quiet on the water,” Elkins said.
Vallecito Marina provides buoy service alongside its rentals. Customers can leave their boats docked at the Marina, fuel up, and set sail on their own time. The Marina’s outstanding customer service provides hassle-free daily, weekly, or monthly buoy rates. The employees make this service smooth and include rides to the boats, while some brave customers toss on a life jacket and swim to their boats.
“Our buoy customers are awesome,” Elkins said. “We meet nice people and get to make people’s day. We’re about customer service here. We want people to have a good experience on the lake. They return and tell their friends and family about us.”
Beyond being a great place to create memories, entertainment and educational opportunities abound. Water sports, events, and conservation clinics are offered through the Vallectio Conservation and Sporting Association, which oversees all Marina operations as a wholly owned subsidiary.
The VCSA operates as a non-profit organization to help alleviate the conservation responsibilities of the Vallecito community. This organization supports a healthy environment and service for the tourism economy. The VCSA and the Pine River Irrigation District host an annual kids fishing clinic, which educates children about water quality and conservation and their roles in the health of the water, fish, and surrounding area.
After a full day of adventures, stop by the Weminuche Woodfire Grill at the north end of Vallecito for some pizza and beer. A day on the water builds up an appetite and thirst that only the Grill can quench. You’ll be greeted like a local and leave with full bellies and smiles.
Vallecito is a hidden gem in La Plata County and should be on your summer adventure list. From the Vallecito Marina to the educational activities of the VCSA, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a peaceful day of fishing, seek adventure on the water, or enjoy quality time with family, Vallecito Marina will deliver a memorable experience.
“It’s not hard to get here, but it feels like you’re somewhere completely different,” Elkins said. “It’s a nice little getaway.”
By Leah Nott
