Photo: Kettering
Photo: Srithar Rajendran
Photo: Nikolaus Klassen
Boulder Reservoir
★4.4(129 reviews)$Activity
🕑 4-6 hours (half to full day)👶 Best for ages 3 and up. Toddlers and preschoolers love splashing in the shallow swimming areas and playing in the sand, while older kids and teens can try kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming out to deeper waters under supervision.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
Boulder Reservoir is a fantastic summer destination where families can enjoy sandy beaches, designated swimming areas, and calm waters perfect for introducing kids to water activities. With kayak rentals, expansive picnic areas, and plenty of space to spread out, it's an ideal spot for a full day of outdoor recreation without the crowds of ocean beaches.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy beach areas perfect for sandcastle building and beach play
- ✓Designated swim areas with lifeguards during summer season
- ✓Kayak and paddleboard rentals for family water adventures
- ✓Large grassy picnic areas with tables and grills
- ✓Calm, lake waters ideal for beginner swimmers and young children
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to secure prime beach real estate and easier parking,afternoons get very crowded
- 2.Bring water shoes as the beach transitions from sand to rocky areas in some spots, making entry easier for little ones
- 3.Pack your own shade via pop-up tent or umbrella, as natural shade is limited along the beach areas
- 4.Consider renting kayaks or paddleboards early in your visit while kids have the most energy,rentals are available on-site during peak season
- 5.The west side beach tends to be less crowded than the main swim beach and offers calmer waters for younger children
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings from June through August offer the best experience with smaller crowds and calmer waters. Aim for 9-11 AM before peak heat and afternoon winds pick up, which can create choppier conditions.
What to Know
Daily entrance fees apply per vehicle (typically $8-10 for residents, slightly higher for non-residents). There's a concession stand on-site, but many families pack coolers since picnicking is encouraged. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season at designated swim areas.
Seasonal Notes
Open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, with lifeguards and full amenities available during peak summer months (June-August). Swimming is only permitted when lifeguards are on duty. The reservoir remains open for other activities year-round, but water recreation is strictly a summer activity.
Nearby Eats
Head to Backcountry Pizza & Tap House (about 10 minutes away) for kid-friendly pizzas and a casual atmosphere, or stop by Chick-fil-A on Arapahoe Avenue for a quick, reliable option that kids love.
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