Forest, state wildlife areas, and a pass: knowing whose land you're on near Dolores County

The eastern, higher part of Dolores County climbs up into the San Juan National Forest, in the Dolores Ranger District that stretches north toward Lizard Head Pass. It is a lot of beloved public land, wide open for hunting, fishing, and just getting out into the high country. One nice thing to know up front: that public land comes in a few flavors, and a couple of them have their own access rules.

National forest is one kind. A State Wildlife Area is another. Some lakes and reservoirs that look like just another spot on the map are State Wildlife Areas managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. These are managed for wildlife rather than as parks. To enjoy many of them, CPW asks for a State Wildlife Area pass or a valid hunting or fishing license, even if you are only there to walk or look.

It is an easy thing to sort out ahead of time, so it is worth a quick check before you head up. Hunting and fishing also run by their own seasons, units, and water-by-water rules, which change, so it is good to look those up fresh each time.

To see whose land you are on and what each piece needs, start with the Forest Service for the national forest and Colorado Parks and Wildlife for state wildlife areas and licenses.