Cherry Creek State Park
00 review4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, Colorado, 80104, United States
Cherry Creek State Park
$28.00 - $41.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$41.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $28 per night for basic camping sites to $41 for full-hookup RV sites. Additionally, there is an $11 daily vehicle entrance fee.
About this campground
Just minutes from downtown Denver, Cherry Creek State Park transforms 125 campsites into your personal urban escape. Whether you're pitching a tent under the cottonwoods or settling into one of the full-hookup RV sites, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned along the shores of an 880-acre lake. Miles of trails wind through the landscape for hiking and biking adventures, while the sandy swim beach beckons on warm afternoons. Four-legged companions can romp freely in the dedicated off-leash dog park, making this a true haven for the entire family.
Cherry Creek State Park provides diverse camping options to suit different preferences, including sites for tent camping, RVs with full hookups, and group camping areas.
Historical SignificanceBorn from Denver's vision to preserve natural spaces amid rapid urban growth, Cherry Creek State Park stands as a testament to forward-thinking conservation. This carefully crafted oasis emerged to offer city dwellers and visitors alike a place where prairie meets water, where the pace slows, and where the Rocky Mountain lifestyle thrives just beyond the skyline's reach.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Colorado's dynamic seasons at Cherry Creek, where winter's gentle touch brings crisp, freezing temperatures and occasional dustings of snow that transform the landscape into a serene wonderland. As spring awakens the cottonwoods, temperatures climb toward summer's warm embrace. July and August deliver sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, though afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll across the plains, bringing dramatic skies and refreshing rainfall to break the dry heat.
Natural Features and SceneryThe shimmering reservoir serves as the park's centerpiece, its waters reflecting Colorado's endless skies while native cottonwoods provide dappled shade along the shoreline. This unique blend of prairie and aquatic environments creates a wildlife corridor where morning visitors might spot deer grazing in the grasslands, including the park's famous albino deer—a rare and ethereal sight. Red-tailed hawks circle overhead while coyotes patrol the evening shadows, and curious foxes occasionally peek out from the underbrush, reminding visitors that nature thrives even at Denver's doorstep.
Geological RegionNestled in Colorado's Northeast Region, Cherry Creek showcases the dramatic transition where the Great Plains meet the urban frontier. The 880-acre reservoir, carved into the rolling prairie landscape, creates a stunning contrast of water and grassland. This unique positioning offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience wide-open Western vistas while remaining connected to modern amenities, embodying the best of both Colorado's natural heritage and contemporary outdoor recreation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers ADA-accessible amenities and two handicap-accessible sites (#53HD and #138HD), which must be reserved through the call center. These sites require a handicap sticker, plate, or placard.
Sites SizeCampsites at Cherry Creek State Park accommodate a range of camping setups, from tents to large RVs with full hookups.
Sites PrivacyThe spacing between campsites has been praised in reviews, with some noting around 40 yards between sites in certain areas. Privacy varies depending on the loop, with some loops like Coyote offering more seclusion.
Total Campsites125 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCoyote Loop is recommended for quieter, more forested sites. Buffalo Loop has spacious back-in sites. Full-hookup sites are ideal for RVs.
Best CampsitesPopular loops include Buffalo and Coyote; Buffalo loop is known for back-in sites, while Coyote loop offers more privacy with pull-through options.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum number of guests per site is 8.
Groups
Group camping is available, with designated areas for large gatherings. Specific details about guest or vehicle limits are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops such as Buffalo, Coyote, and Gold Rush, with spacious sites and distances between campers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through the call center at 1-800-244-5613 or the Cherry Creek State Park website.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-up reservations, but advance booking is strongly recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations or changes can be made online or through a call center. Fees are retained based on proximity to the arrival date: 25% for cancellations 28+ days prior, 50% for cancellations 8-27 days prior, and 100% within 7 days. Changes within 7 days come with a 20% fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Cherry Creek State Park offers a wide variety of recreational activities centered around its 880-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, bird watching, boating, fishing, and even model airplane flying. The park also features an off-leash dog park, a shooting range, and many water sports opportunities such as jet skiing and paddleboarding.
Hiking
The park features a range of trails for hiking, from dirt to concrete paths. Reviews often praise the trails, describing them as clean and scenic, though some note that flooding has occasionally affected trail access.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the park. One reviewer noted wishing they had their fishing gear while visiting the reservoir.Swimming
Swimming is supported at the park's designated beach area. However, closures due to conditions such as E. coli have been noted in reviews.Biking
The park features a mix of dirt, road, and paved trails for biking, which are well-liked by users for their variety and quality.Boating
Boating opportunities abound, including options for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The lake supports various watercraft activities and rentals.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight at Cherry Creek State Park. One reviewer mentioned spotting deer, rabbits, hawks, and even albino deer.Beach activities
Beach activities, including sunbathing and swimming, are popular, though some users have noted cleanliness issues at the beach.Cultural and Educational Programs
The park features interpretive programs and nature study exhibits.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as ice fishing are available.Water Sports
Visitors can enjoy a variety of non-motorized water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless fire bans are in effect during high fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are in place but inconsistently enforced based on reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsFlooding has been reported in some areas. Noise from nearby highways is noted as a 24/7 issue. The swim beach has occasionally been closed due to E. Coli.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 13 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include the Aurora South Hospital, located approximately 8 miles away (15 minutes drive), and the Aurora Police Department.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing and availability are not specified, but weekends tend to be busier based on reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available, but there are some complaints about litter in certain areas. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is close to an 880-acre reservoir that supports boating, fishing, jet skiing, and paddleboarding.
Common complaintsHighway noise, extra fees such as $11/day vehicle entrance fee, occasional closures of swim beaches due to E. Coli, and inconsistent trash management.
HostPark staff and hosts are described as friendly and helpful, but some reviewers mentioned a lack of enforcement of noise regulations.
Campground Map
4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, Colorado, 80104, United States
Driving directionsOne mile south of I-225 on Parker Rd., adjacent to Southeast Denver.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. It is located one mile south of Interstate 225, making access straightforward for most vehicles.Nearby places
Denver (10 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Centennial (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Greenwood Village (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Littleton (15 miles, approximately 25 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Aurora, roughly 5 miles away. Chains like Walmart and REI are within driving distance.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Cherry Creek State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Cherry Creek State Park receives mostly positive reviews, with users praising its diverse activities, clean facilities, and convenient location near Denver. However, some concerns include highway noise, additional fees, and occasional facility closures due to environmental conditions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users highlight the park's well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites with full hookups, and the variety of recreational activities such as hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. The off-leash...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from the nearby highway, additional fees such as a $11 day-use pass, and occasional closures or maintenance issues affecting facilities like the beach. Some users also...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, and make reservations in advance as the park can get busy. Carry a leash and poop bags if you are visiting with pets. Bring a credit card for showers...
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Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the park is busier during weekends and holidays, with some facilities like the beach and trails impacted by seasonal flooding or closures.
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful view of the lake with tall trees covering the campsites.' - 'The off-leash dog park is huge and has creek access.' - 'Bathrooms are neat and clean, but showers require a credit card.' -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The Coyote Loop is described as more enclosed and private compared to the Gold Rush loop, which felt more open. Specific site numbers are not highlighted.
Accessibility Features
The park features two ADA-accessible handicap sites that require reservations via the call center.
Pet-Friendly Features
The off-leash dog park is highly praised for its size and creek access, making it a favorite for pet owners. However, leash rules are strictly enforced outside designated areas.
Last updated August 10, 2025