The reservoir serves as a critical link in the Prairie Waters project, which uses natural purification through sand and gravel aquifers.
Scuba diving is permitted in designated areas, making it one of the few locations in the Denver metro area for such activity.
The reservoir's water is monitored daily to ensure it meets rigorous standards for the city's municipal supply.
The surrounding landscape is shortgrass prairie, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife including bald eagles and coyotes.
Aurora Reservoir is a 1,768-acre municipal water supply facility that doubles as a significant recreation area in suburban Colorado. It features a 30-acre inflatable water park and a sandy swim beach accessible during summer months. The site provides a 8.2-mile paved multi-use trail encircling the water, primarily utilized by cyclists and runners. Watersports, including scuba diving, paddleboarding, and motorized boating, are permitted with specific permit requirements. The reservoir serves as a primary drinking water source for the City of Aurora, necessitating strict water quality regulations. A dedicated archery range is available on-site for public use. Fishing enthusiasts frequent the area for its populations of smallmouth bass, walleye, and trout.
The spillway overlook at sunset for panoramic views of the water against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare on the water surface during activities.
Check the wind forecast before planning a paddleboard trip, as high winds can create significant chop.
Visit on weekdays to avoid the high density of families at the swim beach on weekends.
Attempting to swim or wade in non-designated areas, which is strictly prohibited for water quality safety.
The swim beach and inflatable water park operate seasonally from late spring through early autumn.
No glass containers or open fires permitted; keep pets on a leash at all times; do not enter the water outside of designated swim areas.
