Aurora Reservoir – Aurora, CO | Biking, Boating, Fishing, Hiking & Swimming

The Aurora Reservoir covers over 30,000 acres of plains territory with over 800 acres of water surface. It’s located east of Denver in Colorado’s second largest city, Aurora.

Aside from being part of the list of largest parks in the city, the reservoir is also known for having the best water around and serves as a drinking water storage facility in Aurora. State record holds proof to this claim as four state record fish has grown in the area: Catfish, White Sucker Tiger Muskie, and Smallmouth Bass.

Activities

Aurora Reservoir Windsurfing Colorado — Windsurfing on Aurora Reservoir. Photo: Pierce Martin

There are tons of activities that can be done in the reservoir and everyone is welcome to enjoy the place. Aside from water-related activities like fishing, paddle boarding, scuba diving, and swimming (swim beach); archery, going on bike rides, running, hiking, or leisure walks are also some of the things that people can take part in the reservoir.

Boating: – Once the reservoir thaws, usually in mid March, boating season begins. It runs until November 30th. There are no gas motors permitted, only electric and none at all. Dry boat storage is offered. Boats with a compartment capable of holding water or launched to/from a trailer will be inspected at the boat ramp.

Boat rentals are limited, as you can only rent kayaks and stand up paddle boards. They do not offer fishing or sail boats for rent.

Fishing: Allowed in the reservoir but you need to have a fishing license if you’re 16 years old or older. These can be easily purchased in convenience stores but not in the reservoir itself. There is a handicapped accessible fishing pier where they can go fishing.

Hiking: – The trail around the lake is a scenic, and lengthy, 8.5 miles.

Swimming: – The swim beach is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Swim at your own risk, there are lifeguards only through July.

Facilities

Aurora Reservoir Dam Colorado Panorama — Aurora Reservoir Dam panorama. Photo: jaaniussikene

The park is open all year-round and accepts special events like family reunions, birthday parties, or even a company outing. This place is the right fit for it with a variety of shelters available that can hold 20-300 people (depending on the shelter size).