Boating at Navajo State Park will be outstanding for the Labor Day weekend as water levels at the massive reservoir in southwest Colorado remain well above average for this time of year.
"The rain and snow in the spring were a wonderful blessing for Navajo and for southwest Colorado," said Doug Secrist, park manager. "The big run-off nearly filled the reservoir. It's been a great summer for boating and good water conditions will remain well into the fall."
A project completed last spring to repair the boat ramp has also made it easier to launch boats.
Boaters are reminded that their craft must still be inspected for aquatic nuisance species. The inspection station is open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. through the Labor Day weekend. Beginning Sept. 8, the inspection station is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Starting Oct. 1, the inspection station hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Make sure mud and dirt is removed from all parts of the boat, engine and trailer. The inspection process will go faster for those with clean boats. Boats that have an inspection seal will also move more quickly through the inspection.
Boaters are also reminded that proper-fitting life jackets must be on board for everyone who will be on the boat. All children under the age of 13 must wear life jackets at all times while on the water. Colorado Parks and Wildlife strongly recommends that all boat passengers wear life jackets at all times.
The 2,100-acre park offers 138 camp sites and three cabins. For availability, call the park at (970) 883-2208, or go to the reservation section of the Colorado Parks and Reservation website, http://coloradostateparks.reserveamerica.com.
Daily entry to the park costs $7 per vehicle; an annual pass costs $70. Navajo State Park is located in western Archuleta County in southwest Colorado.
For more information about all of Colorado's state parks, go to: cpw.state.co.us.
