Barr Lake State Park

Northeast of Denver, Colorado, Barr Lake State Park offers something for every kind of outdoor enthusiast. With nearly 3,000 acres of recreational area, there’s plenty of space for your next outdoor adventure. The southern half of Barr Lake State Park is a wildlife refuge. 

There are viewing stations and a nature center that you can enjoy. Bald eagles often spend the winter in the park. Bird watchers have noted over 350 different species in the park area. If you enjoy water-based fun, the northern half of the park offers boating and fishing on the lake. 

Kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats are allowed; electric motors must operate at trolling and gasoline motors must be ten horsepower or less. Fish available include small and large-mouth bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, bluegill, walleye, wiper, and tiger muskie. 

Barr Lake State Park also features an archery range with 12 shooting lanes and heavy-duty targets ranging from 10 to 100 yards. Only field or target tips are allowed, but broadheads are allowed before hunting season in specified lanes, or you can bring your own targets. The park even has a new 3D target course. 

The park's boardwalk offers a quiet, scenic area to walk over the wildlife reserve. It’s an easy walk for those with children and has plenty of spots to stop and watch for wildlife. For more serious hikers, there are several trails to hike, ranging in length and difficulty, from a short loop trail to a nine-mile path open to hikers, bicyclists, and horseback riders. 

Barr Lake State Park is open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM. Fishing is permitted all night long. There is a $7 charge for parking per day. Additional camping fees may vary. Leashed pets are allowed at Barr Lake State Park. Be courteous and always remove pet waste. 

Do not let your dog disturb other visitors at the park or the local wildlife. Also, dogs are not permitted inside the wildlife refuge area. If you’re near Denver and looking to spend some time in nature, bring your pup and your family to Barr Lake State Park.