Settlers came to Pleasant Valley in the 1870s because of large tracts of grazing land. Scofield was named after General Charles W. Scofield, a timber contractor who became president of the state’s first coal mining company. Mining peaked in the early 1920s when Scofield had 12 stores, 13 saloons, four large hotels, a post office, and a population of more than 6,000 residents. Today, less than 100 reside in the town.

The popularity of Scofield Reservoir brings many visitors to the park each year. Summer activities include fishing, camping, hiking, and swimming at this reservoir at an elevation of 7,616 feet. During the winter months, Scofield is one of the best places to ice fish for rainbow and cutthroat trout.