Bear Creek Dam was the last of three dams built to reduce the flooding risk in the Denver area. Located on the southwest edge of suburban Lakewood at the confluence of Bear Creek and Turkey Creek, construction of the dam was authorized in 1968 and was completed in 1982. The dam was constructed in two segments including the main embankment and the south embankment.
Bear Creek Lake is less than 1 mile long and has an average depth of 48 feet. The lake drains an area of approximately 236 square miles. The multi-purpose pool measures 110-surface-acres and has a storage capacity of 2,000 acre-feet.
Bear Creek Lake Park is managed by the City of Lakewood. Attractions include a campground, fishing and picnic areas, archery range, and a golf course. Winter activities include ice fishing and cross-country skiing.