Top 8 Lakes around Roxborough Park
Best lakes around Roxborough Park Colorado are found in the surrounding area, with Roxborough Park itself renowned for its red sandstone geological formations and abundant wildlife. While the park primarily features streams, the nearby Chatfield Lake is a prominent destination for water-based activities. This region offers a combination of unique natural landscapes and extensive lake recreation opportunities.
Best lakes around Roxborough Park
- The most popular lakes is Chatfield Reservoir, a lake that is a 1,423-acre reservoir within Chatfield State…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Chatfield Reservoir
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Chatfield Dam Trail (Paved Section)
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Chatfield State Park
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Cigar Pond Trail
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Wetlands View
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Tips from the Community
The Chatfield Reservoir is a 1,423-acre lake in Chatfield State Park. There is a hiking path that runs alongside the water.
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Chatfield State Park is a state park that centers around the 1,423-acre South Platte River-fed Chatfield Reservoir. It offers biking and hiking trails, boating, fishing, and picnicking.
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Chatfield Reservoir offers opertunity for fun activities like boating, biking, fishing, camping, and hiking. Established in the 1970s for flood control, the lake is now home to animals like deer and bald eagles. Chatfield Reservoir is water storage facility for the Denver area and features a marina for boaters.
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Chatfield State Park is a 5,300-acre park featuring a 1,400-acre reservoir. There are a bunch of different trails, ponds, and natural areas to check out while you bike around the park. Some trails are rougher than others, but you can usually tell when you are turning onto a rough singletrack path versus a smoother gravel path.
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This short, paved trail is wheelchair accessible and provides a vantage point to watch boats, appreciate the mountain views, or spectate the dog park! In the summer/spring bugs can be absurdly bad along the path, but the beauty kinda makes up for it. At the area closest to the parking lot, there are picnic tables and a shelter.
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Great segment of trail to look for waterfowl while walking between Cigar Pond and the South Platte River.
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Amazing wetlands and trees that provide refuge for beavers, snakes, and birds (such as Americas favorite, the bald eagle)!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary lakes for recreation near Roxborough Park?
The most prominent recreational lake near Roxborough Park is Chatfield Lake, located within Chatfield State Park. It's a large 1,500-acre reservoir offering extensive water-based activities. While Roxborough State Park itself is known for its geological formations and streams, Chatfield Lake is the go-to for lake recreation.
What activities can I do at Chatfield Lake?
At Chatfield Reservoir, you can enjoy a wide range of activities including boating, jet skiing, water skiing, swimming, and paddleboarding. It's also a popular spot for fishing, camping, hiking, and biking. The park features swim beaches, a large dog park, and picnic areas.
Are there family-friendly options for visiting lakes near Roxborough Park?
Yes, Chatfield State Park, which encompasses Chatfield Lake, is very family-friendly. It offers amenities like swim beaches, picnic areas, and numerous trails suitable for various ages. The Chatfield Dam Trail (Paved Section) is even wheelchair accessible, providing easy access to views of the lake and mountains.
Can I go fishing at the lakes near Roxborough Park?
Yes, Chatfield Reservoir is a well-known fishing spot. It's home to various species including trout, walleye, perch, carp, bluegill, crappie, channel catfish, and yellow perch. Remember, a valid fishing license is required.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The wetlands and natural areas around the lakes, such as Wetlands View, provide refuge for diverse wildlife. You might spot beavers, snakes, and various bird species, including bald eagles. Cigar Pond Trail is also excellent for waterfowl viewing.
Are there hiking or biking trails around the lakes?
Absolutely. Chatfield State Park boasts over 26 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. For more options, you can explore cycling routes like the Colorado Trail or Platte River and Cigar Pond Trail Loop, or running trails such as Waterton Canyon Trail. Find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Roxborough Park and Running Trails around Roxborough Park guides.
Is there camping available near the lakes?
Yes, Chatfield State Park offers extensive camping facilities. These include full hook-up campsites available seasonally, and dry or electric-only sites during winter months. Campgrounds provide amenities like coin showers and laundry facilities, and every site is a short walk to the lake.
Are there any lakes near Roxborough Park that are not open to the public?
Yes, McLellan Reservoir is located near Roxborough Park but is not accessible to the public as it is private property. However, it is recognized as a good spot for birdwatching from designated pullouts along County Line Road, especially for waterfowl from fall through spring.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Roxborough Park?
The lakes, particularly Chatfield Reservoir, are popular year-round. Summer is ideal for water sports and camping, while spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. Birdwatching at McLellan Reservoir is best from fall through spring.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes near Roxborough Park?
Yes, Chatfield State Park features a large dog park that allows off-leash play. Many trails within the park are also dog-friendly, but always check specific trail regulations and keep dogs leashed where required.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around the lakes?
The Chatfield Dam Trail (Paved Section) offers excellent vantage points for observing boats and enjoying mountain views. Additionally, Wetlands View provides scenic vistas of the wetlands and trees, which are home to various wildlife.
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