Chatfield State Park —
Your Complete Guide
A reservoir on Denver's southwest edge with a summer swim beach, 197 campsites, a 69-acre off-leash dog area and 26+ miles of trails, open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
What is Chatfield State Park?
Chatfield State Park is a 5,381-acre Colorado state park in Littleton, on Denver's southwest edge, built around Chatfield Reservoir where the South Platte River leaves the foothills. You can boat, water ski, paddleboard and fish on the reservoir, swim at a summer beach, camp at one of 197 sites with hookups, ride or hike more than 26 miles of trails, let your dog run in a 69-acre fenced off-leash area, and watch hot air balloons launch. The park is open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, and a daily vehicle pass is $10–$12 with Colorado plates.
The reservoir exists because of a flood. After the South Platte and Plum Creek overflowed in June 1965, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dammed the river; the dam was finished in 1975, the year the state park opened. Today Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages the water and the prairie around it (history and wildlife).
One tip before you leave home: don't type the park's name into your map app. CPW says it gives wrong directions. Use 9700 S Wadsworth Blvd or 11500 N Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton, instead (entrances and directions).
Chatfield State Park at a Glance
Things to Do at Chatfield
Water, trails, dogs and a campground in one park. Pick what you came for.
Camping
197 reservable sites, all with electric and 146 with full hookups, at $36–$41 a night.
Sites & Fees →
Dog Off-Leash Area
69 fenced acres with two ponds and miles of trails at the park's north end. $3 a day or $25 a year.
Passes & Rules →
Boating & Marina
Two launch ramps, mandatory boat inspections, and boat rentals at the Chatfield Marina from May through October.
Ramps & Inspections →
Fishing
Trout and walleye in spring, bass, perch, crappie and catfish in summer, and ice fishing by mid-December.
Species & Seasons →
Horseback Riding
About 24 miles of riding trails, corrals and trailer parking, and rentals at Big Horn Stables.
Trails & Rentals →Trails at Chatfield
More than 26 miles of paved and natural trails for walking, biking, skating and riding.
Hiking and biking from the Dam Overlook parking lot; a Watchable Wildlife kiosk stands on top of the dam.
The trail system that ties the park together, open to leashed dogs.
Starts at the Chatfield Stables parking lot; part of about 24 miles open to horses.
How to Get to Chatfield State Park
Two addresses work in a map app; the park's name does not.
Entrance Addresses
9700 S Wadsworth Blvd, Littleton 80128, or 11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd., Littleton, CO 80125. Rigs over 13 feet use Plum Creek. Directions.
Park Office
Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Phone 303-791-7275. Contacts.
Passes
Required on every vehicle, year-round; $4 per person on foot or bike. All fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get into Chatfield State Park?
A daily vehicle pass is $10–$12 with Colorado license plates and $15–$17 with out-of-state plates. People entering on foot, bike or horseback pay $4 each. The $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass and the $80 annual pass also cover entry.
What are Chatfield State Park's hours?
The park is open 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The park office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m..
Where is Chatfield State Park?
In Littleton, Colorado, on the southwest edge of the Denver metro area. Use 9700 S Wadsworth Blvd, Littleton 80128, or 11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd., Littleton, CO 80125 in your map app; searching the park's name gives wrong directions.
Can you swim at Chatfield State Park?
Yes, at the swim beach only, from Memorial Day through Labor Day, sunrise to sunset. There's no lifeguard, kids under 12 need adult supervision, and dogs aren't allowed on the beach.
Is Chatfield State Park dog friendly?
Yes. Leashed dogs are allowed everywhere except the swim beach, and the fenced 69-acre Dog Off-Leash Area lets them run with a $3 daily or $25 annual pass.
Can you camp at Chatfield?
Yes, with a reservation. 197 sites, all with electric hookups and 146 with full hookups, cost $36–$41 a night. Book up to six months ahead at cpwshop.com or 1-800-244-5613.
Is Chatfield State Park the same as Chatfield Farms?
No. Chatfield Farms belongs to Denver Botanic Gardens, a separate organization with its own admission. Chatfield State Park is run by Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Is Chatfield a national park?
No. It is a Colorado state park managed by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam and reservoir.