2011 Map of Casto Reservoir

About this map

Casto Reservoir and the nearby Big Creek Reservoir anchor this high-altitude landscape in Mesa County, where water management defines the remote terrain. The presence of Big Creek Ranch and Black Camp reflects a history of seasonal grazing and forestry operations that have long shaped the high plateaus and creek valleys of western Colorado. The map documents an intricate network of drainage systems, including Gill Creek, Smith Creek, and the many forks of Bear Creek, which cut through prominent landforms like Leonards Ridge and Smith Point. Topographical features such as Hungry Gulch and Dead Horse Pasture provide vivid clues to the early ranching and pioneer heritage of the area. Connectivity is maintained by the winding Divide Rd, which links isolated recreation sites like the Divide Forks Campground to the broader watershed of Big Dominguez Creek.