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The Daily Insight

Why is Cherry Creek Reservoir closed?

Author

Rachel Newton

Updated on February 16, 2026

AURORA | The natural swim area at Cherry Creek State Park has been temporarily closed after state health officials have found higher levels of the bacteria E. Coli in the water.

In this regard, is Cherry Creek Reservoir closed?

The lake is closed for the season.

Additionally, is the swim beach at Cherry Creek Open? The swim area at the swim beach at Cherry Creek Reservoir is closed.

Besides, is it safe to swim in Cherry Creek Reservoir?

— The designated swim area at Cherry Creek State Park is back open after a temporary closure due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Water quality testing in natural swimming areas is mandated by the CDPHE and the Colorado Board of Health.

Do you have to pay to get into Cherry Creek Reservoir?

Cost: Admission is $9 per day. You can also get an annual pass for $73. Seniors (age 64 and older) and military members can get discounted passes. The park also has a special off-leash dog area that requires a separate pass for $2 per day or $20 annually.

Related Question Answers

Is Cherry Creek Reservoir open for fishing?

Cherry Creek Reservoir is open to boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and fishing.

Can you kayak at Cherry Creek Reservoir?

Dogs are welcome at the park as well as on the water with you. We have paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes available to make your Cherry Creek Reservoir experience amazing and memorable! We can't wait to see you on the water!

Is Cherry Creek Reservoir man made?

The State Park is also the site of Cherry Creek Reservoir, the largest man-made lake in the watershed. The Creek drains into the South Platte River in central Denver.

What fish are in Cherry Creek Reservoir?

Cherry Creek Reservoir is a superb fishery for largemouth bass, rainbow trout, wiper, and trophy-size walleye. Minimum size for walleyes is 18 inches and only one bigger than 21 inches can be taken per day. Trout fishing is good during cold weather months, while wiper fishing is best in April.

How far is Cherry Creek Reservoir?

Cherry Creek Reservoir Loop Trail is a 8.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Aurora, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels.

Can you swim in the Boulder Reservoir?

No, the only swimming that is allowed at the Boulder Reservoir is at the designated swim area when lifeguards are on duty. Open-water swims are usually offered weekly in the summer.

Where is Cherry Creek Lake?

Us Army Corps of Engineers, Colorado. Cherry Creek Dam, located at the southeast edge of Denver in Aurora, CO, was the first of the three dams to be built to protect the Denver region from catastrophic South Platte River floodwaters that plagued the area for more than 100 years.

Can you swim in Aurora Reservoir?

Aurora Reservoir offers fishing, sailing, non-motorized boating, windsurfing, a seasonal swim beach, SCUBA area, archery range, and large group picnic shelters.

Can you swim in Crystal Creek Reservoir?

The park is a great place for outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as camping with 197 campsites located on four campsites. Swimming in the reservoir is only allowed at the appointed swim beach area.

Where can I swim near Denver?

The Best Swimming Spots in Denver, Colorado
  • Chatfield Reservoir. Set within Chatfield State Park in the city of Littleton, the Chatfield Reservoir is decked out with roped-off swimming areas, sand, and picnic spots.
  • Aurora Reservoir.
  • Grand Lake.
  • Bear Creek Lake Park.
  • Cherry Creek State Park.
  • Boulder Creek.
  • Jackson Lake State Park.
  • Eldorado Springs Swimming Pool.

Do Colorado State Parks take credit cards?

????????????????????????????Parks Passes. ?When the entrance station is staffed, you may use Visa, MC, or Discover, as well as cash. Accepted forms of payment include; exact cash or a credit card (Visa, MC, or Discover).

Are there any beaches in Colorado?

Beaches in Colorado are truly unique, with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains that you won't typically find along ocean coastlines. Whether it's sunbathing, camping, swimming or building sandcastles — we guarantee that a trip to the beach will be one of your most memorable.

Is Bear Creek Lake open?

Big Soda Lake and Bear Creek Reservoir open at 20% capacity for shoreline use and paddle craft. Bear Creek Lake Park's Big Soda Lake and the Bear Creek Reservoir are open to paddle craft and shoreline use at a limited capacity on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can dogs swim at Cherry Creek Reservoir?

Cherry Creek Reservoir

The swimming beach is off limits for dogs, but at the marina across the dam from the campground you can rent stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, and fishing boats. There are also more than 25 miles of dog friendly trails in and around the park, some offering fantastic views of the reservoir.

Do I need a fishing license to hike in Colorado?

You now must have a hunting or fishing license to hike in any State Wildlife Areas in Colorado. “The purpose of these properties is to conserve and improve wildlife habitat, and provide access to wildlife-related recreation like hunting and fishing that are a deep part of Colorado's conservation legacy.”

How much does it cost to get into Castlewood Canyon?

All vehicles must have a $9.00 parks pass.

Are Colorado State Parks free now?

All Colorado State Parks have entrance fees. All vehicles are required to have an entrance pass and some parks have walk-in fees.

What is an Aspen Leaf pass?

Aspen Leaf Passes are available to all Colorado residents 64 or older and allow unlimited access to all Colorado State Parks. ?The Aspen Leaf pass has the added bonus of discounted camping, Sunday through Thursday, excluding holidays. Discounts do not include weekends, holidays, or reservations on cabins or yurts.

Is Roxborough Park open?

7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Gates close at 4:30 p.m.

Can you swim Chatfield State Park?

In the heat of the summer, the swimming area at Chatfield State Park draws tons of visitors looking for a reprieve. It's open annually from Memorial Day through Labor Day and boasts a big, sandy beach with plenty of space to accommodate large groups.

How big is Chatfield?

6.07 km²