It is the second largest body of water in Colorado, and offers dispersed camping opportunities along the northeast portion of the lake if you would like to get away for some peace and solitude. Grand Lake is 506 acres and is the largest natural lake in Colorado. Barr Lake- Located just southeast of Brighton, Barr Lake offers metro paddlers a place to escape most Of the crowds and noise associated with most of the Denver area reservoirs. Half the lake is off limits to all boating, as it is a designated wildlife refuge. Barr Lake serves as a peaceful day paddling destination with great wildlife viewing possibilities.
Paddlers can explore secluded canyons .
Morrow Point and Crystal Lakes, although not nearly as large as Blue Mesa, offer a completely different kind of kayaking experience. They are very narrow and have steep canyon walls rising up to 2,000 feet straight out of the water. Both of these lakes offer boat-in campsite. Be warned, however, that unpredictable fluctuating dam releases from Morrow Point and Blue Mesa Dams can make paddling to the take out spots very difficult should you attempt it at the wrong times. Beautiful mountain backdrops and only a little over an hour away from Denver, this is a popular place to paddle.