“Three reservoirs in the Black Canyon of the Gunnison river corridor — Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest body of water in Colorado, surrounded by sagebrush mesa with dramatic canyon backdrops.”
About This Location
Curecanti National Recreation Area in western Colorado encompasses three reservoirs — Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal — along the Gunnison River below Black Canyon. Blue Mesa Reservoir, at 96 miles of shoreline, is Colorado's largest body of water and offers sweeping high-desert lake landscapes framed by sagebrush mesa. Morrow Point Reservoir, accessible only by boat or a steep trail, is wedged between dramatic canyon walls, providing a more intimate canyon-lake environment. Crystal Reservoir is narrow and dramatic. The location pairs naturally with nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park for combined shooting days covering both deep canyon and open reservoir aesthetics. NPS commercial filming permits required; contact the park at 970-641-2337. Gunnison (10 miles) offers lodging and basic services. Crested Butte (30 miles) adds mountain character. A productive and scenic stop for any Colorado production routing through the western slope.
Color Palette
Location
📍 Open in Google Maps →Permit Information
Permit Required
Type
NPS Commercial Film Permit
Fee
Varies – NPS location fee + cost recovery
Contact
Curecanti NRA – Special Use Permits
Contact Permit Office
📞 970-641-2337Adjacent to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park — production could coordinate permits for canyon + reservoir in one trip.
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