Island Acres
Swimming hole in Denver, Colorado · Lake
Island Acres is a small lake swimming hole. It is near Denver, Colorado. Fee required. Best season: Summer (June to September) for warm weather and clear waters.
Typical season: Summer (June to September) for warm weather and clear waters
About Island Acres
Near Denver in Colorado, Island Acres offers a straightforward outdoor swim on Colorado River.
Situated east of Grand Junction along the I-70 corridor, this officially recognized .
Whether you're a family road-tripping through the Rockies or an adventurer chasing the next great . The landscape here is unmistakably Colorado. Rust-red canyon walls rise above the river valley, sculpted over millennia by the same water you're about to wade into. Cottonwood trees line the banks, their leaves catching the light and rustling in the canyon breeze. The air carries that particular scent of sun-warmed rock and moving water that you only find in river country. Wildlife is a genuine part of : great blue herons patrol the shallows, and if you're quiet and lucky, you might catch a mule deer stepping down to drink at dusk. The dramatic, river-carved landscape makes even a lazy afternoon in the water feel like an expedition.
Swim at your own risk at Island Acres. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Small Lake
- Water body
- Colorado River
- Fee
- Fee required
- Nearest town
- Denver
- State
- Colorado
- Coordinates
- 39.16846, -108.30102
- Best season
- Summer (June to September) for warm weather and clear waters; Autumn (October) for stunning foliage and cooler temperatures.
- Access difficulty
- Easy. No hiking required; paved roads and parking available.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Camping at site.
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- Restrooms, picnic areas, shaded spots, and camping facilities available. Suitable for day trips or overnight stays.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer (June to September) for warm weather and clear waters; Autumn (October) for stunning foliage and cooler temperatures.
- Access Easy. No hiking required; paved roads and parking available.
- Facilities Restrooms, picnic areas, shaded spots, and camping facilities available. Suitable for day trips or overnight stays.
- Camping nearby Camping at site.
Highlights & features
- Refreshing Colorado River swimming
- Camping facilities on-site
- Accessible location near I-70
- Rich wildlife and scenic views
- Perfect for families and adventurers
- Fed by Rockies snowmelt
- Blend of shallow and deep swimming areas
- Dramatic river-carved landscapes
How to get there
Island Acres lies in Colorado near Denver, Grand Junction. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Island Acres is a section of the Colorado River State Park located east of Grand Junction, Colorado. Use these driving notes to reach this scenic : Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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From Grand Junction
Start on I-70 East:
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Begin your journey by heading east on Interstate 70 from Grand Junction. Drive about 20 Miles
Continue on I-70 for about 20 miles. You will pass through scenic landscapes, so enjoy the views of the surrounding mesas and the Colorado River.
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Look for Exit 47 - Island Acres
Watch for signs directing you to the Colorado River State Park, Island Acres Section. Take Exit 47.
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Turn Right
at the Exit: After exiting I-70, turn right and follow the signs for Island Acres. The entrance to the park is clearly marked.
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Arrive at Island
Acres: Once inside the park, follow the internal signage to the designated .
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Parking and Final Approach
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Parking
Island Acres offers ample parking near the . Once you park, you’ll find the . Follow the trails or pathways leading to the river. Facilities: The park provides restrooms, picnic areas, and shaded spots, making it a great location for a day trip. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, and any . Entrance Fee: Note that Colorado State Parks typically require a day-use fee or a valid state parks pass for entry. Check the signage at the entrance for current rates. Have a safe visit to Island Acres, and take advantage of the beautiful surroundings and refreshing waters of the Colorado River!
Plan your visit
Island Acres works well as a day trip from Denver or Grand Junction. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Dominguez Canyon or browse more Colorado lake spots in our directory. For the full list in Colorado, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via Colorado River State Park. A valid state parks pass or daily entrance fee is required. Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas. The swimming area is unsupervised; no lifeguard is on duty.
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What to pack for Island Acres
Gear we compare side by side for lake swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Island Acres?
Yes. Island Acres near Denver and Grand Junction in CO is a small lake swimming spot on Colorado River. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Island Acres cost?
Plan for fees: Yes. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Island Acres?
Island Acres is in CO within day-trip range of Denver and Grand Junction. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Culture & history
The Colorado River has supported communities for centuries, serving as a vital freshwater source and shaping local history.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles. Protect wildlife habitats and avoid littering to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.