Top 4 Lakes in Cherry Creek State Park
Best lakes in Cherry Creek State Park are centered around the Cherry Creek Reservoir, a significant aquatic feature within the 4,200-acre state park. This large reservoir, spanning approximately 880 surface acres, was created for flood control and serves as a recreational hub. The park offers a natural prairie and wetland environment, providing a diverse landscape for visitors. It functions as an urban oasis, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually to its water and land-based activities.
Best lakes in Cherry Creek State Park
- The most popular lakes is Cherry Creek State Park South Entrance, a facilities highlight that marks the entry to a natural park featuring an 880 surface acre reservoir. This entrance provides access to the park's primary water body and its surrounding recreational areas.
- Another must-see spot is Cherry Creek Reservoir, an 880-acre reservoir popular for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding park features hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and an off-leash dog area.
- Visitors also love Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, a natural area featuring a mix of wetlands and riparian habitats. This area provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, especially bird species, and is accessible via the Cherry Creek Trail.
- Cherry Creek State Park is known for its large reservoir and diverse wetland areas. These offer opportunities for water sports, wildlife viewing, and tranquil natural experiences.
- The lakes in Cherry Creek State Park are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 30 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Cherry Creek Park
Highlight • Natural
In parallel, many outdoor activities are possible in some dedicated areas such as camping, fishing, hiking, or animal observation.
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Cherry Creek State Park South Entrance
Highlight • Rest Area
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Cherry Creek Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
The surrounding park features hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and an off-leash dog area.
There are different entry and use fees in the park, and recently there have been some temporary closures of certain roads due to flooding, so be sure to look up the latest info before planning a trip.
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Cottonwood Creek Wetlands
Highlight • Natural
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Smoky Hill Picnic Site
Highlight • Rest Area
Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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Tips from the Community
The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands are located within Cherry Creek State Park near Denver, Colorado. This area features a mix of wetlands and riparian habitats, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, especially bird species. During wet springs, the wetlands attract migratory birds like the White-faced Ibis, offering birdwatchers unique viewing opportunities. The wetlands are accessable via the Cherry Creek Trail and are also near the Suhaka Model Airfield and the Prairie Loop Nature Trail.
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Cherry Creek State Park, in Denver, Colorado is a large, popular park right in the heart of the city. There is an 880-acre reservoir where you can boat, fish, paddleboard, and swim. The park has over 35 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and the popular Cherry Creek Trail runs right through it, connecting the park with other locations and trails in the area. Facilities include multiple parking areas and trailheads, picnic areas, restrooms, a marina, and an off-leash dog area.
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The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is located on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir. It has a parking area and provides public toilets and sheltered eating areas with loads of room to run around. Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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Glide along the asphalt cycling path through Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, a biker’s wildlife viewing paradise right in the city.
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Cherry Creek Reservoir is an 880-acre reservoir and a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding park features hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, and an off-leash dog area. There are different entry and use fees in the park, and recently there have been some temporary closures of certain roads due to flooding, so be sure to look up the latest info before planning a trip.
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The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is located on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir. It has a parking area and provides public toilets and sheltered eating areas with loads of room to run around. Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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Glide along the asphalt cycling path through Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, a mountain biker’s wildlife viewing paradise right in the city.
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At this point you can experience the vastness of Cherry Creek Park. This wilderness area is especially remarkable that it is located in the city. The park is a refuge site for many wildlife species. In parallel, many outdoor activities are possible in some dedicated areas such as camping, fishing, hiking, or animal observation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What water activities are available at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Cherry Creek Reservoir is a hub for diverse water activities. Visitors can enjoy powerboating, sailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and waterskiing. Boat and jet ski rentals are available at the Pelican Bay Marina during warmer months. Fishing is also popular, both from the shore and by boat, with the lake stocked with species like rainbow trout, black crappie, and walleye.
Are there opportunities for hiking and biking around the lakes in Cherry Creek State Park?
Yes, the area surrounding the Cherry Creek Reservoir features 35 miles of multi-use trails, including 15 miles of paved paths, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. For specific cycling routes, you can explore options like the Cherry Creek Trail or the Cherry Creek Reservoir Loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as the Smoky Hill Trail.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the lakes?
The natural prairie and wetland environment around Cherry Creek Reservoir provides a habitat for diverse wildlife. The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, in particular, are known for attracting various bird species, especially migratory birds like the White-faced Ibis during wet springs. Over 171 bird species have been identified within the park.
Are there designated swimming areas at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Yes, a large, imported-sand swim beach is located on the northeastern side of the park, offering a designated area for swimming and sunbathing. This area includes a bathhouse and restrooms. Additionally, near the Smoky Hill Picnic Site, there is a lake beach with a designated swimming area, though swimming is prohibited on the southern side of this beach.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes in Cherry Creek State Park?
Yes, Cherry Creek State Park is dog-friendly and features an off-leash dog area with water access, allowing your canine companions to enjoy the park alongside you.
What are the parking options near Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Parking is available at various points within Cherry Creek State Park. The Smoky Hill Picnic Site, for example, offers a parking area. There are different entry and use fees for the park, so it's advisable to check current information before your visit.
Are there picnic areas or facilities available?
Yes, the park offers picnic areas for visitors. The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is a notable location on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir, providing public toilets and sheltered eating areas with ample space.
What are the best times to visit Cherry Creek State Park's lakes?
Cherry Creek State Park is a year-round destination. Warmer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day) are ideal for water sports and swimming. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking, biking, and bird watching. Winter provides opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing when conditions permit.
What winter activities are available at Cherry Creek Reservoir?
During the winter months, when conditions allow, visitors can enjoy activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and ice fishing on Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for families around the reservoir?
Yes, the park features 35 miles of multi-use trails, including 15 miles of paved paths, many of which are suitable for easy walks. The natural prairie and wetland environment offers accessible routes. For example, the Cottonwood Creek Wetlands – View of Cherry Creek Reservoir loop is an easy route that can be enjoyed by families.
What makes Cottonwood Creek Wetlands a unique area within the park?
The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands offer a unique mix of wetlands and riparian habitats, providing a vital ecosystem for diverse wildlife, particularly bird species. It's a prime spot for birdwatching and can be accessed via the Cherry Creek Trail, offering a tranquil natural experience right within the city.
Are there camping facilities near Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Yes, the park surrounding Cherry Creek Reservoir features camping facilities, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the outdoor experience.
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