Standley Lake

Standley Lake is a large municipal reservoir in Jefferson County, bordered by Westminster and Arvada along Colorado's Front Range. The lake serves as a drinking water supply for over 300,000 residents, which explains the strict regulations that define every visit. What the rules take away in spontaneity, the lake repays with clean water, stunning Flatirons views, and enough room on the surface that paddlers rarely feel crowded even on busy summer weekends.

Paddleboarding and kayaking are the most popular water activities at Standley Lake. Trolling motors are the only motorized watercraft currently permitted, and larger powerboats have been phased out entirely, leaving the surface calm and wake-free for paddlers. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available on-site for around twenty dollars. All watercraft must pass through a mandatory aquatic nuisance species inspection and hot-water spray-down before entering the water, a process that adds thirty to sixty minutes to arrival and requires inflatables to be fully inflated beforehand. Water access closes at 6 PM, and the lake operates seasonally, typically closing watercraft access from late fall through spring.

Fishing at Standley Lake draws consistent interest, with anglers targeting largemouth bass, walleye, and trout in deeper sections. Shoreline fishing access is limited to designated areas, and fishing from 11 PM to sunrise is prohibited. Aquatic weeds in shallow zones can snag lines, and bank space fills quickly when campgrounds are occupied. Live bait including minnows and worms works well here. No wading is allowed due to invasive species protocols.

Camping at Standley Lake includes tent sites and dry RV camping spots positioned on a hill overlooking the water, offering exceptional sunset views toward the Rocky Mountains. The sites are compact with few trees and no electric or sewer hookups, but potable water faucets are spread throughout the campground. Reservations fill fast given the proximity to the Denver metro area, so booking ahead online is essential for choice spots.

Hiking, biking, and running trails loop around the reservoir and connect to the Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail and the paved Big Dry Creek Trail. The terrain is mostly flat with a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. Cyclists and runners favor early morning outings for sunrise views over the water. A nature center on the property features wildlife displays and a pollinator garden. Bald eagles nest in a protected area on the west shore, visible from nearby trails but off-limits to foot traffic.

Facilities include restrooms without showers, picnic tables, a boat ramp, parking lots around the perimeter, and ranger stations. Entry requires a regional park fee of around ten dollars per vehicle, which is separate from Colorado state park passes. Annual passes are available. Park rangers maintain a visible and active presence enforcing watercraft inspections, leash laws, and access boundaries. Dogs must remain on leash at all times and are not permitted in the water. Swimming and alcohol are both prohibited throughout the park.