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. Recreational opportunities include camping, fishing, picnicking, an archery/ri
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.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Cherry 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 Cherry 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 Cherry Creek Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Cherry 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 Dayton Street Bridge, Cherry Creek Spillway Trail, Butterfly Hill Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Cherry Creek Lake is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
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
Oborseth / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Jeffrey Beall / CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chatfield Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
