3. Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield Reservoir is nestled in the foothills less than 25 miles south of downtown Denver in Chatfield State Park. More than 26 miles of multi-use trails weave their way along the reservoir and through the state park. The hard-surface and natural trails are open year-round for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter as well as hiking and biking in the warm weather months. The lake has a Power Zone for motorized boats, and the No Wake Zones are especially gentle for fishing, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. There’s a swimming beach on the west side of the lake, an off-leash area for dogs (which requires a daily pass), a model airplane field and even hot air ballooning. The state park has nearly 200 campsites, and one nearby hotel is the Courtyard by Marriott Denver Southwest/Littleton.
4. Blue Mesa Reservoir
The largest reservoir fully contained within Colorado’s borders is Blue Mesa Reservoir in the south-central part of the state. Formed by the damming of the Gunnison River, the lake is 20 miles long with nearly 100 miles of shoreline. Anglers come from miles around to try their hand at fishing for elusive kokanee salmon at Blue Mesa, which is part of the Cosecant National Recreation Area. Fed by snowmelt rivers and streams, the reservoir is usually a bit too chilly to comfortably swim in for an extended period of time; those seeking recreation can still enjoy activities like boating (with a permit), water skiing and windsurfing but are advised to wear wetsuits and watch out for hazardously strong winds. Camping can be found at Elk Creek Campground, which has more than 150 sites and is open year-round.