Bear Creek Lake Footwarrior / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
About this site

Bear Creek Dam, the last of three dams built to protect the Denver region from floods, is located on the southwest edge of suburban Lakewood at the confluence of Bear Creek and Turkey Creek. This project is known for its diverse bird and waterfowl population and its striking scenic views. Recreation opportunities inclu

USACE · U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Bear Creek Lake

PASSLANDS ✦ AMBIGUOUS SEE THE SOURCE CHECK

Maybe — confirm before you go.

Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.

Where it is
39.6533, -105.1287
Get directions
Camp at Bear Creek Lake This site has campsites you can reserve online. Check availability and book directly on Recreation.gov.
Find & book campsites

Common questions

Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Bear Creek Lake — always confirm with the managing site before you go.

Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?

Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.

Yes Can you fish at Bear Creek Lake?

Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.

Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?

Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Bear Creek Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.

Yes Can you camp at Bear Creek Lake?

Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.

Depends Can you have a campfire?

Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.

Yes Are there hiking trails?

Yes — trails here include Harriman Lake Loop Trail, Mount Carbon Loop, Sister City Park Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.

Yes Can you bike here?

Yes — biking is available at Bear Creek Lake. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.

Yes Can you bring a dog?

Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.

Depends Are drones allowed?

Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.

Nearby sites

Chatfield Lake Jeffrey Beall / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Chatfield Lake

Check

Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.

BikingBoatingCamping
CO · Fee unknown
Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge Footwarrior / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge

Check

This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.

Interpretive ProgramsHikingWildlife Viewing
CO · Fee unknown
Cherry Creek Lake Harry Weddington, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Cherry Creek Lake

Check

Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.

BoatingCampingFishing
CO · Fee unknown
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Oborseth / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Check

This U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.

Auto TouringBikingInterpretive Programs
CO · Fee unknown