Cherry Creek State Park | Denver

Cherry Creek State Park is a vast, multi-use outdoor recreation area located in Aurora, Colorado, approximately 25 minutes southeast of downtown Denver. It covers about 4,200 acres, including the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, and blends open water, grasslands, wetlands, and rolling prairies with well-developed infrastructure for sports, boating, hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. It was Colorado’s first state park, officially designated in 1959, and remains one of the most visited parks in the state due to its size, accessibility, and variety of activities.

Natural Landscape and Background

The area was originally developed in the 1950s after the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built Cherry Creek Dam to manage flood control for Denver. The reservoir was created as a result, and a lease to the state allowed the surrounding land to be transformed into a public park. The region is a natural transition zone between plains and foothills, with a mixture of prairie grasses, cottonwoods, riparian zones, and scenic lake views.

Its elevation is about 5,550 feet (1,692 m) above sea level, offering a fairly mild climate with four distinct seasons, making it a year-round destination.

Cherry Creek Reservoir and Water Recreation

The centerpiece of the park is the Cherry Creek Reservoir, which supports a wide array of water-based recreation:

Boating

Motorized and non-motorized boats are allowed. Jet skis, sailboats, pontoons, and fishing boats share the water.

The Pelican Bay Marina offers:

Boat and paddleboard rentals

Fuel services

Boat slip rentals

Dockside dining and music events in summer

Two public boat ramps (East and West) serve both seasonal and day users.

Watercraft inspections are mandatory to prevent aquatic nuisance species.

Swimming and Beach Area

A designated swim beach with soft sand is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Lifeguards are not present; swimming is at your own risk.

Picnic areas with grills and restrooms are located near the beach.

Fishing

The reservoir supports year-round fishing, including ice fishing in winter.

Common fish include walleye, rainbow trout, perch, channel catfish, and largemouth bass.

Fishing piers and shoreline access are plentiful.

A valid Colorado fishing license is required.

Land Activities and Trails

Cherry Creek State Park features over 35 miles of multi-use trails, ideal for:

Walking, Running, and Biking

The Cherry Creek Trail extends through the park and connects to Denver’s extensive regional trail system.

Popular loops include:

Wetlands Loop Trail – scenic, flat, and bird-rich.

Smoky Hill Trail – a historical route used by pioneers.

Several unpaved nature paths meander through grasslands and cottonwood groves.

Trails are open to leashed dogs, bikes, and strollers.

Equestrian Trails

The 12 Mile Stables inside the park offers:

Guided trail rides

Horse boarding

Hay wagon rides

Horses have dedicated trail systems separate from hiking paths.

Winter Sports

Trails are accessible for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking in the winter.

The park remains open 24/7 all year.

Camping Facilities

Cherry Creek offers some of the most modern and extensive camping infrastructure in the Denver metro area:

Campground Details

135 total campsites, many with full RV hookups (water, sewer, electric).

Tent camping and walk-in sites are available.

Amenities include:

Heated restrooms and showers

Laundry facilities

Dump stations

Campground amphitheater for ranger talks

Electric vehicle charging stations

Reservations

Campsites are available year-round, though winter use is limited to select loops.

Reservations can be made online through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife portal.

Group campsites are available for large parties and events.

Special Attractions and Activities

Family Shooting Center

One of the few state park-based shooting ranges in Colorado.

Offers ranges for:

Rifle and pistol shooting

Archery

Trap and skeet

Equipment rentals and safety courses available.

Model Airplane Field (Suhaka Field)

Maintained by the Denver R/C Eagles, this site includes:

Runways for model aircraft

Instruction for beginners

Designated flight zones

Dog Off-Leash Area

A 125-acre fenced area on the northwest side of the park.

Includes natural grassland, trails, and access to a creek for dogs to swim.

Requires either a daily ($3) or annual pass.

Wildlife and Environmental Education

Cherry Creek State Park supports a rich ecosystem of Colorado prairie wildlife:

Mammals: Mule deer, coyotes, beavers, rabbits, prairie dogs, and foxes.

Birds: Over 170 species recorded, including bald eagles, osprey, blue herons, hawks, owls, ducks, and sandpipers.

Wetlands: The northern part of the park features protected wetland zones with boardwalks and bird blinds.

Reptiles and amphibians: Snakes, frogs, and turtles can be spotted near the water’s edge in warm months.

Educational signage, ranger-led programs, and occasional workshops teach visitors about conservation, habitats, and the role of Cherry Creek Dam in water management.

Events and Seasonal Programs

Throughout the year, the park hosts various events, including:

Lake Appreciation Day (July): Clean-up efforts, vendor booths, and water safety demos.

Outdoor yoga, 5K races, and triathlons.

Guided birding walks, often in partnership with Audubon Society chapters.

Star-gazing events led by local astronomy groups.

The Pelican Bay Beach Club and marina also hold live music, food truck nights, and waterfront socials.

Access, Fees, and Practical Info

Park Address

4201 South Parker Road, Aurora, CO 80014

Hours

Open 24/7, year-round

Certain facilities (boat ramps, marina, swim beach) are seasonal

Fees

$10 daily vehicle pass

Annual state parks pass options available

Extra fees for:

Boat inspections and use

Dog off-leash area

Shooting center admission

Transportation and Accessibility

Accessible by car via Parker Road or I-225.

Bike and pedestrian access points available from surrounding neighborhoods and trailheads.

Restrooms, trails, and picnic areas are ADA-accessible.

Public transit options are limited, but Uber/Lyft access is convenient.

Summary

Cherry Creek State Park is one of the most comprehensive recreational areas near Denver, offering a unique blend of nature and activity. Whether you’re boating across the reservoir, hiking through the prairie, riding horseback, camping beneath the stars, or simply picnicking by the shore, the park provides an easy escape into Colorado’s outdoors. Its proximity to the metro area and broad offerings make it ideal for day trips, weekend getaways, or extended nature stays, appealing to individuals, families, athletes, campers, dog lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.