May 25, 2011
Littelton, Colorado
Our stay at Chatfield State Park was very relaxing and enjoyable. The 5,600 acre recreation area is packed with fun. The endless trails are a joy to explore on foot, bicycle or horse back. The reservoir and marina are a jewel against the Hogback Mountain backdrop. I enjoyed bird watching a great variety of birds that are attracted to the Platte River and the prairie.
Large areas of open space and the diversity of terrain and vegetation at Chatfield provide habitat for an abundance of wildlife. Deer, elk, bald eagles, and bear are among the wildlife that has been spotted in the park.
Three hundred and five bird species frequent Chatfield either as permanent residents or migrators. A rookery at the mouth of the Platte River provides nesting habitat for the Double-crested cormorants and approximately 80 pairs of Great Blue Herons. The Bald Eagle, White Pelican and elusive Burrowing Owl may be observed either as migrants or winter or summer residents. Small and large mammals, including Whitetail and Mule deer, Coyote, Red Fox, Cottontail rabbits, Prairie Dogs and Weasels, frequent the park. Anglers are attracted to Chatfield by warm- and cold-water fishing opportunities that include walleye, rainbow trout, tiger muskie, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, green and blue sunfish and blue and channel catfish.