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Chatfield Reservoir Vacation Rentals

Chatfield Reservoir

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Chatfield Reservoir
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Why Rent On Chatfield Reservoir

Chatfield Reservoir lies at the heart of Chatfield State Park, one of the Denver area’s most beloved outdoor hubs. The 1,500-acre lake was built in response to the 1965 South Platte River flood and offers top-notch recreation with a backdrop of rolling foothills. Boating, sailing, and paddleboarding are major draws, as are horseback riding trails and full-service campgrounds. Birders flock to Chatfield to spot more than 200 species including bald eagles and burrowing owls. The reservoir’s inflows include Plum Creek and the South Platte River. With its massive 13,000-foot dam and proximity to urban amenities, Chatfield combines natural wonder with engineered resilience. Don’t miss the Chatfield Marina, which offers pontoon rentals and a seasonal lakeside grill.

Best time to go
As autumn wraps the Chatfield Reservoir in a tapestry of golden leaves and crisp air, visit in late September for serene fishing and splendid kayaking. Enjoy vibrant sunsets, fewer crowds, and a tranquil escape into nature’s embrace.
Water Quality
Chatfield Reservoir's water is typically aquamarine to emerald in color, with clarity ranging from ultra-clear to gin-clear, offering a sparkling and transparent appearance.
Surface area (mi)
3.77
Max depth (ft)
154.2
Elevation (ft)
5429.79
Shoreline length (mi)
26

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Chatfield Reservoir has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming in Chatfield Reservoir is only allowed in the designated swim area. Swimming hours are not specifically mentioned for Chatfield, but swimming is restricted to designated areas.

  • Chatfield Reservoir is a popular destination because it offers various water activities like boating, fishing, jet skiing, paddle boarding, and water skiing. The reservoir also has a full-service marina with slip rentals, boat rentals, and storage. Additionally, it features a seasonal swim beach and is part of a larger park with camping, hiking, and biking trails.

  • The size and bag limits for walleye and bass in Chatfield Reservoir, Colorado, are not specified in the provided sources. However, general fishing regulations in Colorado require checking the specific rules for each body of water. For accurate information, you should consult the Colorado Parks and Wildlife regulations or contact a local CPW office.

  • There is no dog-friendly beach at Chatfield Reservoir. Dogs are not allowed on the swim beach, but they can use the off-leash dog area with two ponds. This area is separate from the swim beach and provides a space for dogs to swim and play.

  • Chatfield Reservoir is near the towns of Littleton and Denver. It is located in the lower foothills of the Front Range on the southwestern edge of Denver. The reservoir is also close to communities like Sterling Ranch.