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Orgo-Life the new way to the future Advertising by AdpathwayDENVER (KDVR) — If you had hopes to take a dip at Union Reservoir over the Fourth of July weekend, it's time to make backup plans: Officials announced Saturday that the beach would be closed.
The closure is due to low water levels and limited lifeguard staffing, according to the city of Longmont. The city said that the reservoir started the year at half capacity and levels have risen by a foot during May, over four feet in the past month, but the water line is "far away from where the swim area typically is for this time of year."
But have no fear: There are plenty of other reservoir options for swimmers.
Aurora Reservoir, Aurora
The Aurora Reservoir is a fan favorite for Denver-area residents, as the swim beach provides a convenient location to cool off. The area does require a pass, but day passes are $15 during the summer season, and annual passes are $85 per household for non-Aurora residents.
Dogs are prohibited from being on the beach or in the water, and grilling on the beach is not allowed either. The area has lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through early August, and again on Labor Day weekend.
Big Soda Lake, Lakewood
Big Soda Lake is a Lakewood swim beach at Bear Creek Lake Park that is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The area has no on-duty lifeguards, but does have a lap swimming lane, a playground and two sand volleyball courts.
Dogs are again prevented from being on the sand area, and no grills can be placed on the sand.
Chatfield State Park, Littleton
Perhaps one of the most well-known swim beaches near Denver, Chatfield State Park's swim beach accompanies the reservoir's plethora of water activities, including fishing and boating.
The swim beach is open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, from sunrise to sunset. Children under 12 must have adult supervision, and there's no lifeguard on duty.
Clear Creek, Golden
Clear Creek in Golden is not a reservoir and certainly is not a "lazy river," a fact shared widely in the city's publications about the creek. However, the river remains one of Denver's favorite areas to cool off as tubers enjoy the whitewater rapids.
As of Sunday, June 29, Clear Creek was under a "yellow flag," meaning that it was experiencing moderate to high flow rates. The flow level is considered unsafe for children under 18 years old, and personal flotation devices or lifejackets are strongly recommended.
Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins
Horsetooth Reservoir is Colorado's third busiest reservoir, according to its website, with an estimated million visitors each year. The park recommends visitors plan to arrive before 9 a.m. or after 3 p.m. due to capacity issues.
However, the park has two swimming beaches. One is at the South Bay Campground, with the second at the Sunrise Day Use Area. Entry into the park costs $10 per vehicle, or $100 annually.
Carter Lake, Loveland
The only place you can swim at Carter Lake is at the swim beach, which is described by some online reviews as small but good for smaller children. The swim beach is located away from the marina, and dogs are not allowed. A daily entrance fee of $10 per vehicle is required.
Boyd Lake State Park, Loveland
Like all state parks, an entrance fee is required, or use of the Keep Colorado Wild Pass. This state park is largely focused on the lake and water-based fun, so the swim beach includes rinsing showers, restrooms, a playground and a snack bar. The swim beach also has a volleyball court available on a first-come, first-served basis.
No matter where you end up getting wet and cooling off, remember to stay hydrated, and that it is always safer to bring a buddy along than to swim alone. The Red Cross provides tips on swimming safety here.