The reservoir receives most of its water from Colorado's Western Slope through the Alva B. Adams Tunnel and the Boulder Feeder Canal, both part of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project.

According to Boulder's Parks and Recreation Department, the chief recreation activities at the park are "boating, swimming, sun bathing, water skiing, fishing, picnics, walking, running, cycling and wildlife viewing.

The facility prohibits dogs May 15 - Labor day and charges admission fees April - October.

The reservoir is popular among anglers, especially those fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass, and catfish.

In recent years, the State of Colorado has stocked the reservoir with black crappie, saugeye, and rainbow trout.