Where High Plains Tranquility Meets Denver's Doorstep
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Why Rent On Aurora Reservoir
Aurora Reservoir is a 31,650 acre-foot reservoir on the southeastern edge of Aurora, Colorado, a multi-use water body with three distinctive fingerlike coves, a pristine sandy swim beach, and a 8.5-mile paved loop trail that gives it the feel of a genuinely thoughtful outdoor destination rather than a utilitarian reservoir. The lake supports scuba diving, sailing, paddleboarding, and trout fishing alongside swimming, and wildlife sightings of herons, osprey, and bald eagles in the quieter coves make it one of the Front Range’s most rewarding year-round nature destinations. Just 30 minutes from downtown Denver, it stands as a remarkable combination of urban access and high-plains lake quality.
Aurora and Parker Rentals Near the Lake
Vacation rentals and homes in the Aurora, Centennial, and Parker communities surrounding Aurora Reservoir give families a comfortable, well-positioned base for lake days combined with Denver’s full cultural and dining resources. A rental with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms, and a suburban Colorado backyard gives your group a private home in one of the metro area’s most family-friendly communities, with the reservoir accessible by bike or a short drive from many properties. For families visiting the Denver metro who want both outdoor recreation and city access, a rental near Aurora Reservoir provides the most balanced option in the region.
Paddleboard, Sail, Scuba Dive, and Fish for Trout
The variety of activities at Aurora Reservoir goes considerably beyond the standard Front Range lake experience. The scuba diving program, operated through the reservoir’s management, gives certified divers access to the lake’s clear water and the opportunity to practice open-water skills in a controlled, well-monitored environment. Sailing conditions are excellent, with the reservoir’s open surface and consistent afternoon winds creating reliable recreational sailing from May through September. Trout, walleye, and perch are consistent catches for anglers working the three coves.
The 8.5-Mile Paved Loop and Wildlife Coves
The paved 8.5-mile loop trail around Aurora Reservoir is one of the Front Range’s finest lakeside running and cycling routes, with open prairie views, mountain panoramas to the west, and wildlife observation opportunities throughout. The quieter Senac and Lone Tree coves are particularly rewarding for wildlife watching, with osprey fishing, great blue herons standing in the shallows, and bald eagles perching in the cottonwoods that line the reservoir’s northern shore. Families who bring binoculars to Aurora Reservoir rarely leave disappointed.
The Denver Metro in Every Direction
Aurora Reservoir’s location at the southeastern edge of the Denver metro gives families convenient access to the full range of Denver’s cultural and entertainment resources. The Denver International Airport is 30 minutes north, making Aurora Reservoir an ideal first or last stop for families flying in and out of Colorado. The Denver Tech Center’s restaurant and entertainment district, Castlewood Canyon State Park’s hiking terrain, and the Cherry Creek Trail system are all within easy reach. Aurora Reservoir is where Denver’s outdoor lake quality is at its most accessible and its most thoughtfully managed.
- Surface area (mi)
- 1.99
- Max depth (ft)
- 110.01
- Elevation (ft)
- 5931.76
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 8
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Aurora Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, swimming is allowed at Aurora Reservoir from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day in the designated swim beach area. Lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during this period.
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Aurora Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers a wide range of activities. It includes fishing, sailing, non-motorized boating, windsurfing, a seasonal swim beach, a SCUBA area, an archery range, and large group picnic shelters. The reservoir also has an 8-mile multi-use trail for hiking and biking.
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Dogs are allowed while fishing at Aurora Reservoir in Colorado, but they must be on a leash no longer than 10 feet. Dogs are not allowed on the beaches, in the water, or on the ice.
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Yes, there is a beach and a boat launch at Aurora Reservoir. The boat ramp is available during the boating season, which starts mid to late March and ends November 30. The public boat dock is available depending on water levels.
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Aurora Reservoir is located in the far southeastern part of Aurora, Colorado. The surrounding area includes new suburban communities like Beacon Point and Southshore, as well as developments such as the Southlands Lifestyle Center, Cherokee Trail High School, and Fox Ridge Middle School.