Chatfield Lake

Chatfield Reservoir anchors one of the Denver metro area's busiest state parks, spreading across 1,500 surface acres at the base of the Front Range foothills in Douglas County. The reservoir sits at roughly 5,400 feet and serves as a four-season destination for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, biking, camping, and swimming. Whether you arrive by boat trailer or bicycle, Chatfield delivers a full day of outdoor recreation within a 30-minute drive of downtown Denver.

Fishing is a major draw. Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks the reservoir with rainbow trout, and anglers also target walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, crappie, and channel catfish. Spring trout fishing ranks among the best in the Denver metro, and ice fishing draws a loyal crowd through winter. Two boat ramp complexes provide a total of ten launch lanes and five courtesy docks, making it easy to get on the water even on crowded weekends.

Paddleboarders, kayakers, and canoeists share the reservoir with motorized boats, water skiers, and sailors. Colorado Watersports operates rental locations within the park at Roxborough Cove and the Swim Beach, offering stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and pontoon boats. Free loaner life jackets are available at both the north and south boat ramps.

The park's paved trail system loops roughly 12 miles around the reservoir, drawing cyclists, runners, and walkers. Four campgrounds offer 197 campsites with electrical hookups, many with full utility connections for RVs. A full-service marina provides slip rentals, boat storage, and the Seagull's floating restaurant.

Chatfield charges a daily vehicle pass or accepts an annual Colorado State Parks pass. Expect crowds on summer weekends, but the sheer size of the park absorbs them. Arrive early to secure parking near the swim beach or boat ramps. For a quieter experience, visit on weekday mornings or during the shoulder seasons when the reservoir empties out and the fishing only gets better.