Aurora Reservoir wilderness guide
Reservoir · CO

Aurora Reservoir

Aurora Reservoir is a popular recreational spot in Colorado, known for its water activities and scenic views. This man-made reservoir offers a refreshing escape with numerous outdoor activities.

Reservoir820 surface acres1+ Trails

Designation

Reservoir

Total Wilderness Area

820 surface acres

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Aurora Reservoir

Aurora Reservoir is a popular recreational spot in Colorado, known for its water activities and scenic views. This man-made reservoir offers a refreshing escape with numerous outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located southeast of Denver, Aurora Reservoir spans over 820 acres of surface water, making it a significant spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The reservoir was completed in 1990 and serves as a primary water source for Aurora. Beyond its functional purpose, the reservoir provides ample opportunities for recreation, such as sailing, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming at its well-maintained beach. The ecological environment includes native grasses and wildlife, attracting both nature lovers and photographers. Its surrounding trails offer a chance for a serene walk or a challenging bike ride, while fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with the lake's stock of trout and catfish. The reservoir's history as a vital part of Aurora's water management and its transformation into a recreation hub highlights its dual role in both sustaining life and enhancing the quality of life in the area.

Field Guide · Reservoir
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Aurora Reservoir

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Beach area with designated swimming spots✦ Diverse fish species for angling enthusiasts✦ Scenic trails for walking and cycling✦ Designated areas for picnics and family gatherings
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Aurora Reservoir

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Aurora Reservoir
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Aurora Reservoir
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Aurora Reservoir
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Aurora Reservoir
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Aurora Reservoir
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Aurora Reservoir
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Aurora Reservoir.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fee applies; annual passes available.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Aurora Reservoir

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Parker, Colorado
⌖ 5.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Parker, Colorado

Parker, Colorado is a welcoming town offering scenic hiking, biking, and trail running along open-space paths with views of the Front Range. Enjoy year-round activities from bird watching and golf to winter cross-country skiing nearby.

Spring through Fall for outdoor trails, Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Danish Village, Colorado
⌖ 8.45 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Danish Village, Colorado

Danish Village, Colorado, is a quiet mountain locale perfect for hikers, backpackers, and winter sports lovers aiming to explore the Indian Peaks Wilderness. With peaceful trails and alpine views, it’s an ideal base for outdoor adventure seekers looking to escape the crowds.

Summer and Winter
Explore Town
Centennial, Colorado
⌖ 9.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Centennial, Colorado

Centennial is a family-friendly Colorado town offering accessible hiking, biking, and paddling amid suburban parks and natural preserves. Nearby ski areas add winter variety, making it a year-round destination for outdoor lovers.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for nearby ski resorts
Explore Town
Zanaka Village, State Unknown
⌖ 11.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Zanaka Village, State Unknown

Zanaka Village offers peaceful access to hiking, biking, paddling, and backpacking amid scenic forests and rivers. Ideal for travelers seeking nature immersion with opportunities to camp under stars and spot wildlife.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Aurora, Colorado
⌖ 12.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Aurora, Colorado

Aurora is your gateway to adventure with hiking trails, paddling spots, and birdwatching experiences. It's a perfect balance of urban amenities and access to Colorado's natural beauty.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Green Valley, Colorado
⌖ 12.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Green Valley, Colorado

Green Valley, Colorado is a quiet mountain town that offers easy access to hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and skiing in the San Juan Mountains. It's perfect for travelers seeking serene wilderness and varied outdoor adventures year-round.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and summer activities; Winter for skiing
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Aurora Reservoir

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.