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Tri-Lakes Projects

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built and continues to operate and maintain three important dam and reservoir projects in the Denver metropolitan region. Cherry Creek, Bear Creek and Chatfield projects collectively reduce the risk of downstream flooding along the South Platte River and several of its tributaries. When not operating to reduce flood impacts, this “tri-lakes” system of dams is managed for water quality, recreation benefits and to support fish and wildlife. To see current reservoir levels at these three projects, visit their web pages linked above.

USACE does not operate Cherry Creek State Park, Bear Creek Lake City Park and Chatfield Lake State Park recreation areas.

Denver Area Links

Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers! Prevent invasive species Water Safety Reserve a campsite at USACE campgrounds at Recreation.gov Purchase Navigation and Boating Maps from the Jefferson National Parks Association

River Basin Balancer Game
The River Basin Balancer Game offers insight into an inland waterway and a system of reservoirs, which are operated with a goal for serving each of the benefits, flood control, navigation, hydropower, irrigation, water supply, recreation, fish and wildlife, and water quality, for which many USACE reservoirs are authorized and constructed. Users can take charge of river operations and experience the unique challenges presented when managing reservoir operations in a variety of weather conditions across a geographically diverse basin.
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