Protecting, Enhancing, and Sharing Barr Lake

WHAT WE DO

Friends of Barr Lake supports conservation, education, and recreation at Barr Lake State Park by funding programs, improving visitor experiences, and helping preserve the park for future generations.

More Than a Mission—It’s a Community

Friends of Barr Lake exists to protect and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife habitat, and public experience of Barr Lake State Park for everyone who visits today and in the future.

Through hands-on conservation work, environmental education, and community-driven events that serve as key fundraisers, we help ensure this vital Colorado ecosystem remains accessible, thriving, and deeply connected to the people of Brighton, Denver, and beyond.

Along the way, we create opportunities for connection and fun—bringing together birders, families, volunteers, and outdoor enthusiasts to share in the joy of nature, build community, and celebrate everything Barr Lake has to offer.

GIVE NOW
GIVE NOW
JOIN FOBL
JOIN FOBL

Upcoming Events at Barr Lake State Park

  • 2026 Earth Day Celebration—FREE!

    April 18, 2026 | 8 am – 12 pm

    Celebrate Earth Day at Barr Lake! Free trail cleanup, eco-friendly activities, and family fun at this community event in Brighton, CO.

    Sign Up

  • Bergman Barn Heritage Site Dedication Day

    April 25, 2026 | 9:30 –11 am

    Join us for a special event on our dedication of the "Bergman Barn." The Bergman's, who built this barn in the early 1900's, cared for the land for three generations. Barr Lake State Park restored the barn to honor their story.

    Sign Up

  • Backyard Bird Feeder Workshop

    June 2026

    Create a welcoming haven for local birds in this hands-on backyard bird feeder workshop, where you’ll build your own feeder and learn simple tips to attract and support feathered visitors year-round.

    Details coming soon.

  • 2026 Harvest Festival

    October 3, 2026

    Celebrate the season at Barr Lake’s Annual Harvest Festival with live music, local food vendors, artisan goods, wagon rides, and family-friendly fun—including visits with goats—bringing the community together for a festive day on the prairie.

    Vendor Inquiry

What We Do

Becoming a Friend of Barr Lake means more than just a membership—it’s a way to stay connected, give back, and enjoy exclusive perks while supporting a place you love.

PARK MAINTENANCE

Supporting the day-to-day care that keeps Barr Lake safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for all visitors.

We help to fund essential upkeep such as animal-proof trash cans, maintenance and replacement of equipment, routine repairs, and park-wide cleanups that help preserve the beauty and function of the park year-round.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Bringing people together through meaningful, fun, and educational events that also serve as key fundraisers for the park.

From the Annual Harvest Festival to watercolor workshops and concerts on the prairie, these gatherings create memorable experiences for families and nature lovers while directly supporting Barr Lake’s mission.

PARK IMPROVEMENTS

Helping bring meaningful upgrades and long-term enhancements to Barr Lake State Park.

Past projects include the Bergman Barn restoration, sensory gardens, and improvements to visitor amenities that deepen engagement with the park’s history and wildlife.

FEED THE BIRDS

Supporting one of Barr Lake’s most beloved visitor experiences—the active bird feeding station.

Funds help provide bird seed that attracts a variety of species, including red-winged blackbirds, white-crowned sparrows, and even Henrietta, the park’s well-known resident turkey. It’s a simple way to support wildlife viewing and connect visitors with nature up close.

MEMBERS-ONLY EVENTS

Exclusive gatherings designed to thank and celebrate Friends of Barr Lake members for their ongoing support.

These special events—such as Breakfast with a Ranger and behind-the-scenes park experiences—offer unique access, connection with park staff, and a deeper sense of community within Barr Lake. Interested in joining? Find out more about becoming member or corporate sponsor.

SNACKS & SWAG

A fun and impactful way to support the park through everyday purchases and local partnerships.

The Nature Center offers tasty snacks, while collaborations with local small businesses—such as honey producers and artisans—help raise additional funds. Popular items like stuffed wildlife toys also support our efforts while giving visitors a meaningful keepsake from their visit.

Let’s Be Friends

Be the first to hear about upcoming events, park updates, and ways to support Barr Lake State Park—join our community and stay in the loop!