Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions about Friends of Barr Lake

What is the mission of Friends Barr Lake State Park?

Friends of Barr Lake is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that enhances education, recreation, and conservation at the park by providing funds from grants, donations and fundraising events. 

Why does Barr Lake State Park need a Friends group? Isn’t it funded by the government?

The primary sources of funding for state parks in Colorado are user fees and grants. For more details on funding for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, view the Annual Reports here. Funds from Friends of Barr Lake State Park will ensure that Barr Lake State Park will be preserved from generations to come.

Barr Lakes State Park looked fine to me on my last visit. Why does it need my help?

Much of the work of Friends of Barr Lake occurs behind the scenes. We have supported the ADA fishing pier, track chair purchase, sensory garden implementation, the Harvest Fest, hay rack trailer, tipi renovation and much more.

Questions about Funding and Finances

How much of my donation is actually spent on education, conservation and recreation of Barr Lake State Park?

Members of Friends of Barr Lake State Park volunteer their time and efforts so there are no staff or overhead costs. This means that your dollars can have the greatest impact in Barr Lake State Park. There are some administrative costs that we have to absorb to create and maintain a 501(c)(3) organization.

Is Friends of Barr Lake State Park part of Colorado Parks & Wildlife or another State agency?

No. Friends of Barr Lake State Park is a private, nonprofit, 501(c)(3), so your contribution to Friends is tax-deductible.

Questions about Park Projects

How does Friends of Barr Lake choose which projects to fund?

The Park Manager at Barr Lake State Park submits requests representing the Park’s most pressing funding needs. Then, our volunteer Board of Directors reviews each proposal and commits to funding those that meet the necessary criteria, including importance, urgency, and compatibility with the Friends mission.

Who staffs the projects that the Friends of Barr Lake fund?

All projects we fund are performed by our volunteer board and active members of our organization. That is why it is critically important that we continue to maintain and increase membership.

I have a great idea for a project in Barr Lake State Park … will Friends fund it?

There are two ways to bring suggestions.

1. Email friendsofbarrlakestatepark@gmail.com. We will then pass these ideas on to the park manager for the appropriate consideration.
2. Join a Friends of Barr Lake Board meeting. These are on the 2^nd Monday of each month at 4:30p.

Questions about Helping Barr Lake State Park

How can I help care for Barr Lake State Park?

Your contribution continues the tradition of private philanthropy for Barr Lake State Park. Your contribution enables Friends of Barr Lake State Park to keep making a positive difference in the Park. In addition, spreading the word about Friends is a great way to help! You can help us expand our network of people and organizations who share the desire to support Barr Lake State Park by referring others to our website and Facebook page.

Can I volunteer to work on projects in Barr Lake State Park?

Occasionally a project we fund requires the help of volunteers. All volunteers are enlisted and coordinated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff. To learn more about volunteer opportunities in all Colorado state parks, visit the Colorado State Parks and Wildlife page. To find out more about how to apply for volunteer opportunities in Barr Lake State Park, call (303) 659-6005 or stop by the Nature Center.

How can I make a donation to Friends of Barr Lake State Park?

There are many ways to make a donation, including donating online with a credit card, spreading out your donation by setting up an automatic monthly gift or drop a personal check off at the front desk of Barr Lake State Park.

How are you affiliated with Barr Lake State Park? Can I give directly to Barr Lake State Park?

Friends of Barr Lake State Park is the official fundraising partner of Barr Lake State Park, which allows us to solicit donations on the Park’s behalf. Friends of Barr Lake State Park is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and therefore donations are considered tax-deductible. Contributing to Friends of Barr Lake State Park is the most direct and effective way you can participate in the stewardship of Barr Lake State Park. Contributions made directly to Barr Lake State Park are given via the governmental agency and dollars are not tax-deductible.

What benefits will I receive as a donor to or member of Friends of Barr Lake State Park? We strive to keep you connected with the work of the Friends and informed about the impact of your donation with periodic updates from Barr Lake. You can find this information on our website and Facebook page. Most importantly, you will receive the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a direct role in the ongoing education, recreation and conservation of Barr Lake