Kendrick Lake Park is a 100-acre Lakewood public park at 9351 W Jewell Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232, in the Kendrick Lake neighborhood. Centered on a 31-acre reservoir, it combines an easy one-mile lakeside circuit with fishing access, a water-wise xeric garden, lawns, picnic facilities and a substantial playground. Travelers come for an accessible-scale outdoor break: a place to walk or run beside open water, watch birds, picnic with children and see a respected example of Colorado dry-climate planting.
What to Expect at Kendrick Lake Park
The reservoir is the park’s visual anchor. A broad, paved trail makes a near-continuous one-mile loop around its edge, so the outing is straightforward to time: one circuit is a quick leg-stretcher, while two or three loops make an easy morning walk or run. Benches, grass and mature trees break up the route, and the water draws waterfowl and other urban wildlife. Anglers can fish from the shore; everyone age 16 and older needs a valid Colorado fishing license.
Do not rush past the xeric garden, one of the metro area’s best-known water-wise gardens. Its drought-adapted planting approach gives the park a different focus from a conventional lawn-and-flower landscape and is particularly useful for gardeners looking for Front Range ideas. Families will find an impressive playground and open space for low-key play, while the reservable shelter provides a practical base for birthdays and group picnics. The setting is natural rather than remote: neighborhood streets frame the park, but the water and long views create welcome breathing room.
- 31-acre reservoir: The park’s central water feature supports shore fishing, birdwatching and clear views from nearly every section of the loop.
- One-mile lake loop: A paved circuit for walking, running, strollers and casual mobility-device outings; repeat it for a longer workout.
- Xeric garden: A recognized metro-area water-wise garden demonstrating plants and landscaping suited to Colorado’s dry climate.
- Playground: A dedicated play area gives younger visitors a destination beyond the trail and shoreline.
- Picnic shelter: Reservable group shelter and surrounding picnic space make the park well suited to daytime gatherings.
Kendrick Lake Park at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 9351 W Jewell Ave, Lakewood, CO 80232 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Kendrick Lake, central Lakewood |
| Operating Hours | Daily, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| Admission / Price Range | Free admission; $ for optional picnic supplies and required fishing license for anglers age 16+ |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 45 to 90 minutes; longer for fishing or a reserved picnic |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | RTD Route 20 stops along W Jewell Avenue; free on-site parking is accessed from the park’s Jewell Avenue side. |
| Official Website & Phone | City of Lakewood park page; 303-987-7800 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrive near the 5 a.m. opening for the coolest temperatures, quieter paths and the best chance of seeing activity on the water; late afternoon is also pleasant, though the playground and loop become busier after school and on fair-weather weekends. There is no entrance ticket or timed admission. For the shelter, reserve ahead through the City of Lakewood rather than assuming it will be available for a group. Bring water and sun protection: shade is available in parts of the park but not continuously around the shoreline.
Drivers can use the free park parking reached from W Jewell Avenue. RTD’s Route 20 provides the most direct bus option along Jewell; check the official RTD trip planner for current stop locations and schedules. The main lake loop is paved and generally gentle, making it the best route for strollers and wheelchairs; grass, garden edges and shore-fishing spots are less even. Pair a walk with the adjacent xeric garden, then continue west along Jewell Avenue toward Café Jordano for Italian dining, or use the park as a relaxed outdoor stop before exploring Lakewood’s Belmar district, roughly a short drive east.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Kendrick Lake Park’s hours, and when is the best time to go?
The park is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Go early for a calmer walk, cooler summer conditions and easier parking, or visit in the late afternoon for playground time and a picnic.
Does Kendrick Lake Park charge admission or require reservations?
Admission is free, and the walking trail, garden and playground are open without a reservation. Reserve the picnic shelter in advance for a planned group event; anglers age 16 and over must carry a Colorado fishing license.
How long should I plan to spend at the park?
Allow 45 to 60 minutes for one relaxed lap, the garden and a playground stop. Budget 90 minutes or more if you are fishing, walking multiple circuits or setting up a picnic.
Is Kendrick Lake Park suitable for wheelchairs, strollers and families?
Yes. The paved, mostly level lake loop is the easiest route for strollers and wheelchair users, and the playground gives families a clear focal point. Stay on paved paths for the smoothest travel, since lawns, garden borders and shoreline areas have softer or uneven ground.
When planning your Lakewood travel guide or comparing verified attractions and parks in Lakewood, pair this stop with standout local spots including Bear Creek Greenbelt, Best Western Denver Southwest, SpringHill Suites Denver West/Golden, and Cafe Jordano (1.2 km away).
