Colorado State Park Map: 44 Breathtaking and Exciting Parks

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Colorado is home to breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation experiences that draw visitors from all over the nation and the world, so it’s no surprise that it has state parks in abundance!

Thrill seekers can chase their adrenaline high by kayaking and whitewater rafting, or embark on a winter adventure by snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

For those who prefer a quieter day out, countless Colorado state parks offer fishing, hiking, camping, and the opportunity to take in the state’s beautiful landscape and abundant wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day with the family or an exciting outdoor adventure, you’ll find what you’re looking for at one of these state parks. Keep reading to find your next travel destination!

Printable Colorado State Parks Map

Colorado State Park Map

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area

Arkansas River in Parkdale, Colorado

If you’re an adventure seeker looking for some excitement on the water, you need to head over to the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA)! This place is a haven for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts, with 150 miles of the Arkansas River offering rapids ranging from Class II to Class V.

But that’s not all – AHRA has plenty of other activities to enjoy too, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and more.

So, if you’re passing through Arkansas, make sure to pass by this park. Pack your sunscreen, water bottle, and your sense of adventure!

Barr Lake State Park

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Nature lovers, if you haven’t been to Barr Lake State Park in Colorado yet, you are missing out on a stunning outdoor experience! This state park, established in 1977, spans over 2,715 acres and offers an 8.8-mile trail around Barr Lake, perfect for hiking or biking.

The northern half of the park allows fishing and boating, while the southern half is a wildlife refuge that boasts numerous wildlife viewing stations and a nature center.

Bald eagles are regular visitors during the winter, and one pair even nests here every year! Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that over 350 species have been observed here, making Barr Lake State Park an excellent spot for birdwatching.

In fact, don’t forget to stop by the Bird Conservancy of the Rockies headquarters, which is located inside the park.

With its rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, Barr Lake State Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun and educational outdoor adventure in Colorado!

Boyd Lake State Park

 

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Looking for a fun and relaxing day outdoors? Look no further than Boyd Lake State Park! Located north of Loveland, this park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.

With a stunning centerpiece of 1,700-acre Boyd Lake, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming. For land lovers, the park also has hiking and biking trails, as well as plenty of space for picnicking.

If you’re interested in hunting, the park allows that too! Boyd Lake State Park even hosts events for the public, such as fishing derbies, education programs, and volunteer projects.

So, pack your sunscreen, picnic basket, and fishing gear, and enjoy a fun day out!

Castlewood Canyon State Park

 

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If you’re looking for a state park that combines natural beauty with a fascinating slice of Colorado’s history, look no further than Castlewood Canyon State Park.

Located near Franktown, this park is home to the remains of the Castlewood Canyon Dam, which famously burst in 1933 and caused a flood that reached all the way to downtown Denver.

Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the dam and see the damage that it caused. But that’s not all – Castlewood Canyon State Park is also home to the historic Cherry Creek Bridge, as well as stunning natural landscapes that include a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and more.

So, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day trip, Castlewood Canyon State Park is definitely worth a visit!

Chatfield State Park

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Chatfield State Park is a beautiful and popular state park located just outside of Denver. With over 1,400 acres of water in Chatfield Reservoir, there are endless opportunities for water-based activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.

The park also features several miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for camping and picnicking.

Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, coyotes, and mule deer.

In addition to its natural attractions, the park also offers a range of amenities, including a marina, a dog park, and an off-leash dog swimming area.

Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek State Park (hdr)

Cherry Creek State Park is a must-visit location for anyone who loves outdoor activities. The 880-acre reservoir at the center of the park is perfect for powerboats, sailboats, and paddle craft, and the Marina at Pelican Bay offers mooring for boats.

The park also has a sandy beach for swimming and provides ample parking! As well, with 12 miles of paved roads and 35 miles of multi-use trails, the park is perfect for runners, cyclists, and horseback riders.

In addition, there are facilities for camping, picnicking, bird watching, and even an outdoor shooting range. Visitors can rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks for a day of fun on the water.

The park’s new boat house is a popular spot during the summer, offering food, drinks, and live music with a stunning view of the water. If you’re planning a long camping vacation, don’t forget to check out the dock where you can store your boat during the summer!

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is just a short drive from Colorado Springs. With over 2,700 acres of picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The park offers miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, including prairie grasslands, pine forests, and rugged canyons.

Wildlife is abundant in the park, with sightings of deer, elk, coyotes, and even the occasional bear. The park also boasts a visitor center, picnic areas, and a campground for those who want to extend their stay.

Overall, Cheyenne Park has something for everyone to enjoy, and is a great location to add to your destination list!

Crawford State Park

Crawford State Park

Crawford State Park is a hidden gem located in Delta County, Colorado. The park is home to Crawford Reservoir, a 400-acre lake with plenty of opportunities for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

The park’s well-maintained campsites and picnic areas are perfect for families and friends to enjoy a relaxing day out in nature.

The visitors center is a great place to start your exploration of the park, and the 1.8 miles of trails offer hikers and bicyclists a chance to take in the natural beauty of the area.

With plant communities ranging from pinyon-juniper woodlands to sagebrush, and wetland and riparian areas around the reservoir and below the dam, Crawford State Park offers a diverse and unique outdoor experience for all visitors!

Eldorado Canyon State Park

Eldorado Canyon State Park-24

Welcome to Eldorado Canyon State Park, a beautiful recreational area located in Boulder County. This state park was established in 1978 and has two areas, the developed Inner Canyon and the undeveloped Crescent Meadows.

Eldorado Canyon State Park offers visitors a variety of recreation opportunities with its 885 acres of land. This park is best known for its comprehensive rock climbing area, which features over 1000 technical rock climbing routes.

However, even non-climbers can appreciate the beauty of this canyon by hiking or mountain biking over the 11 miles of picturesque trails that vary in difficulty and reach out to adjoining public lands outside the park.

Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is a must-see and leads to the Crags Hotel Site and Continental Divide Overlook. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking or fishing by scenic South Boulder Creek. In the winter, Eldorado offers hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

However, please note that the park is open during daylight hours only, and visitors are expected to leave before dusk.

Eleven Mile State Park

Eleven Mile State Park

Located in Park County, Eleven Mile State Park surrounds Eleven Mile Reservoir, a 5.5-mile-long body of water spanning over 3,400 acres. This 7,662-acre park was established in 1970 and is situated 11 miles south of Lake George.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a wide range of activities, such as fishing in the Dream Stream area of the reservoir, hiking or biking the 5 miles of available trails, and camping in one of over 300 campsites. The park also features a visitor’s center and a marina.

If you enjoy wildlife, you’ll have the chance to observe cottontail rabbits, white-tailed jackrabbits, coyotes, muskrats, and ground squirrels, with occasional sightings of pronghorn, mule deer, badgers, black bears, and elk.

(Note that daily vehicle park passes are required and can be obtained at the entrance of the park.)

Elkhead Reservoir State Park


If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the outdoors in northwest Colorado, look no further than Elkhead Reservoir State Park!

This beautiful landscape surrounds the stunning 900-acre Elkhead Reservoir, which is perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking for a peaceful spot to cast a line, you’ll find plenty of warm water fish species, including largemouth bass and bluegill.

The park offers both non-electric and electric camping sites, so you can stay overnight and take in the beautiful scenery. You’ll also find hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

However, make sure to bring your own drinking water, as potable water is not currently available in the park.

Fishers Peak State Park

 

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Fishers Peak State Park is a brand new addition to the Colorado state park system, having just opened its gates to the public in late 2020.

Located in Las Animas County, near the charming town of Trinidad, this park offers visitors a breathtaking natural experience that’s still being developed.

With over 19,000 acres of land, the park offers stunning views, abundant wildlife, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. At the center of the park is Fishers Peak, the highest summit in the area at over 9,600 feet.

Further plans for the park include constructing trails, campgrounds, and visitor facilities, which will be added in the near future!

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

Golden Gate Canyon

If you’re looking for a great spot for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature, Golden Gate Canyon State Park is definitely worth a visit. Located just northwest of Golden, Colorado, this state park boasts over 12,000 acres of stunning Front Range wilderness, including 42 miles of hiking trails and 27 miles open to horse and bicycle travel.

The park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, from wetland communities and riparian areas to ponderosa pine and aspen forests.

Keep an eye out for mule deer, elk, black bear, and even the occasional moose, as well as a variety of bird species like Steller’s jays, Clark’s nutcrackers, and mountain bluebirds.

In addition, this park features a visitor’s center, over 100 campsites, and 125 picnic sites, perfect for an easy summer getaway!

Harvey Gap State Park

Grass Valley Dam

Harvey Gap State Park is a hidden gem in western Colorado, known for its excellent fishing and limited-use boating opportunities.

Established in 1987, the park surrounds Grass Valley Reservoir, a 190-acre body of water that provides year-round fishing. Anglers can expect to catch rainbow trout, yellow perch, and largemouth bass, among other species.

Although the reservoir is not suitable for swimming, limited-use boating is permitted, making it a peaceful destination for kayaking or paddleboarding. The park also has picnic areas and a campground for visitors who wish to stay overnight.

Highline Lake State Park


Highline Lake State Park is a must-visit location in Colorado for nature enthusiasts. The park boasts two beautiful lakes – Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake – and is well known for its birdwatching opportunities.

The park offers two wildlife migratory waterfowl overlook kiosks, where visitors can spot a range of birds, including great blue herons, white pelicans, and whooping cranes.

Additionally, fishing is allowed year-round, making it a popular spot for anglers. Even during winter, the park remains open and welcomes snowshoers and cross-country skiers to explore its scenic trails!

Jackson Lake State Park

 

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Located in western Morgan County, northeast of Orchard, Jackson Lake State Park is a perfect spot for a summer getaway. The park is situated on the 2,411-acre Jackson reservoir, which was built in the early 20th century and is fed by the South Platte River.

With 260 campsites, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, bird watching, and even hunting. As well, the park has an OHV track for off-road enthusiasts.

James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park

 

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James M. Robb – Colorado River State Park is a gem of a park located in Mesa County near Grand Junction. This 890-acre (3.6 km2) state park, established in 1994, has five different sections, each offering unique experiences for visitors.

The Island Acres segment is perfect for those looking for a place to camp and swim, while the Fruita segment is a great choice for campers.

For day-use visitors, there are three additional sections to explore: Corn Lake, Connected Lakes, and the Colorado River Wildlife Area.

With boat ramps available at each lake, boaters will be in paradise! Adventurous visitors can float down the river between Corn Lake and Connected Lakes or Connected Lakes and Fruita, both of which offer some exciting class II rapids.

John Martin Reservoir State Park


If you’re a birdwatcher or just love being around water, John Martin Reservoir State Park is the place for you!

This park is home to the second largest body of water in Colorado, and with over 400 different species of birds found in the area, it is a prime location for birdwatching.

If you love spotting wildlife in general, you can catch a glimpse of the rare black-footed ferret that was released into the nearby Southern Plains Preserve by Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials in 2022.

The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Additionally, visitors can hike the nature trails or take part in the annual Sandpiper Festival. Overall, John Martin Reservoir is definitely worth a visit!

Lake Pueblo State Park

 

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Lake Pueblo State Park is a gem located in the heart of Pueblo County. With 60 miles (97 km) of shoreline and 10,000 acres (40 km2) of land, the park has something to offer everyone.

Water activities like boating, water skiing, and fishing are popular here, In fact, there are two full-service marinas that offer boat rentals and boat slips.

Anglers will enjoy the variety of fish species found in the lake, including bass, catfish, and trout. The park also has hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. Also, for those who want to stay overnight, the park has camping sites with modern amenities.

Finally, if you want to take a break from all the adventure, you can relax and swim at the special swim beach!

Lathrop State Park

Spanish Peaks

Welcome to Lathrop, Colorado’s first state park! Located just three miles west of Walsenburg, this park offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

The park is named after Harold Lathrop, the first director of state parks, and features two beautiful lakes: Martin Lake and Horseshoe Lake, which offer excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of fish species.

In addition to fishing, the park offers opportunities for boating, water skiing, jet skiing, picnicking, hiking, wildlife viewing, camping, and even a nine-hole golf course!

The Walsenburg Golf Course, built by 50 Walsenburg citizens and many local volunteers in a public/private partnership, is the only Colorado state park with its own golf course.

Visitors can also enjoy a restaurant/lounge that overlooks the lakes and the National Natural Landmark Spanish Peaks.

With over 107,000 visitors passing through Lathrop State Park in the last year, it’s clear that this park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike!

Lone Mesa State Park

 

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Lone Mesa State Park is a new addition to Colorado that is currently undergoing development and planning. Though the park is closed to most recreational activities, hunting with special permits is allowed in limited areas.

Once the park opens, visitors can look forward to exploring the beautiful and diverse terrain of the park, which includes rocky ridges, mesas, and deep canyons.

The park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, such as deer, elk, and mountain lions, which will make it a popular destination for hunters. Keep an eye out for updates on when the park will open to the public!

Lory State Park

Lory State Park 10-21

Lory State Park, nestled in the beautiful city of Fort Collins, Colorado, offers visitors a range of outdoor activities that will suit any adventurer’s desires.

The park’s stunning landscape, which includes the Horsetooth Reservoir and Horsetooth Mountain Park, offers hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and rock climbers a chance to explore the stunning natural surroundings.

The park also boasts its own bike park, where visitors can engage in some thrilling activities such as dirt jumping, a pump track, and a skills area.

With so much to do and see, Lory State Park is the perfect place for families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty!

Mancos State Park

 

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Mancos State Park is a hidden gem located in the southwestern part of Colorado, close to Mesa Verde National Park. It offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient history of the Ancestral Puebloans who lived in the area from AD 1 to 1300.

This park is rich in culture and history, from the Spanish influence on the area to the construction of the Jackson Gulch Dam in 1948.

It offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains, which visitors can enjoy while hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. The park is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it is home to a variety of species, including bald eagles, osprey, and peregrine falcons.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a scenic getaway, Mancos State Park is definitely worth a visit.

Mueller State Park

Lost Pond Mueller State Park Colorado

Mueller State Park is a beautiful and diverse location that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities.

With over 5,000 acres of land, there are plenty of opportunities to hike, bike, and horseback ride on the park’s 55 miles of trails. Visitors can camp year-round, hunt, and enjoy the park’s stunning views.

Even in the winter, Mueller State Park remains open, allowing visitors to enjoy snowshoeing, sledding, and snow tubing.

Also, wildlife lovers will appreciate the park’s diverse range of animals, including elk, black bears, eagles, hawks, and bighorn sheep!

Navajo State Park

 

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Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Navajo State Park is a true hidden gem. With its crystal-clear waters and 150 miles of shoreline, this state park offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities. Whether you’re into boating, fishing, or camping, Navajo State Park has something for everyone.

One of the park’s highlights is the opportunity to go house boating, which allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of this unique location.

Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts will love the chance to spot various animals, including bald eagles, mule deer, and black bears. For those looking to explore further, there’s even a New Mexico state park located at the southern end of the lake!

North Sterling State Park

North Sterling State Park

North Sterling State Park is a hidden gem located in Logan County, just north of the town of Sterling. The park offers stunning views of the reservoir with 2,880 acres of water surface and six miles of hiking trails along the shoreline.

Anglers will love the warm water fishing opportunities with species such as walleye, wiper, bass, yellow perch, and channel catfish.

For those looking to stay the night, the park offers over 100 campsites, boat ramps, a swim beach, and a visitors center.

Paonia State Park

 

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Paonia State Park is a hidden gem located in the heart of Colorado’s scenic Gunnison County.

Established in 1964, the park encompasses 1,857 acres of stunning canyon landscapes surrounding the picturesque Paonia Reservoir on the North Fork of the Gunnison River.

Visitors to the park can enjoy camping, picnicking, and boating, and there’s even a boat ramp for easy access to the reservoir.

As well, those who love geology will enjoy the park’s visible Cretaceous and Paleocene formations, which include fossilized palm fronds and leaf imprints.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, cottontail rabbits, and marmots, perfect for our fellow animal lovers!

Pearl Lake State Park

Pearl Lake

Pearl Lake State Park is a picturesque area located near Hahn’s Peak in Routt County. The park is named after M. Pearl Hartt, the wife of a pioneer sheep rancher, John Kelly Hartt.

The park has 36 campsites surrounded by a forest of fir, spruce, and pine, and offers two yurts for rent. Visitors can also enjoy a range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.

The lake, which spans over 167 acres, allows boating with gasoline and electric motors limited to wakeless speeds, but note that fishing is restricted to artificial lures and flies only.

During winter, the park is closed for vehicles but is open for foot and snowmobile access, and other activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing can be enjoyed!

Ridgway State Park

Lovely day for a sail

Ridgway State Park, located in the beautiful Ouray County, Colorado, offers visitors a chance to experience the great outdoors in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, camp, or fish, this park has it all!

Wildlife enthusiasts will also love this park, as it’s home to a diverse range of animals including deer, mountain lions, coyotes, rabbits, and elk. Although hunting opportunities are limited in the park due to its proximity to developed areas, it’s still a great place to explore and connect with nature.

Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls State Park is a must-see for nature lovers visiting Colorado. The triple 70-foot waterfall flowing over a travertine dam is the centerpiece of the 48-acre park, and it’s a beautiful sight to behold.

This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, coyotes, and golden-mantled ground squirrels. Visitors can even spot and catch rainbow and brown trout in the creek!

For those who love exploring, there are limestone cliffs near the falls with a few small caves (which contain three different bat species).

The park has a range of visitor facilities, including campsites, picnic sites, and hiking trails, making it a perfect spot for a day trip or a longer stay.

Rifle Gap State Park

Rifle Gap Reservoir

Rifle Gap State Park is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.

The park’s 360-acre reservoir is stocked with a variety of fish species, including rainbow and brown trout, and is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. There are also several trails available for hiking, each offering unique views of the park’s diverse plant communities and wildlife.

The visitors center is a great place to learn more about the park’s history and the local flora and fauna, and the campgrounds and picnic sites provide the perfect setting for a family getaway or a weekend with friends!

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park

Roxborough State Park is a must-see destination for those who love natural beauty. The park’s red sandstone formations make it stand out from other parks in Colorado, and visitors will be amazed at the stunning scenery that surrounds them.

With over 3,000 acres to explore, there are plenty of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and mule deer, so keep your eyes peeled while you’re out and about.

And don’t forget to bring your camera – you won’t want to miss capturing the breathtaking views of the park’s unique rock formations!

Spinney Mountain State Park

 

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Spinney Mountain State Park is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located in the stunning South Park region, the park is home to the Spinney Mountain Reservoir, which is known for its abundance of trout. The reservoir is also a source of municipal water for the City of Aurora.

Visitors to the park can enjoy fishing and hiking, and there are plenty of opportunities to observe the wildlife.

St. Vrain State Park

 

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St. Vrain State Park, formerly known as Barbour Ponds, is a fantastic destination for those who love birds and outdoor activities.

The park offers year-round camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities, and is a haven for birdwatchers, as it boasts the state’s largest rookery of blue heron, among other species.

In addition to bird watching, the park also offers beautiful scenic views with its rolling hills and sparkling ponds. There are also plans for the construction of a reservoir at the park called Blue Heron Reservoir, so keep on the lookout for it!

Stagecoach State Park

Sandhill Crane - Stagecoach

Stagecoach State Park is a hidden gem located just south of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Established in 1989, the park spans over 1,600 acres and includes a beautiful 771-acre reservoir formed by the Stagecoach Dam.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. As well, the park’s trails provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, which includes montane shrub communities, riparian areas, and wetlands.

The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, coyotes, red foxes, and badgers. So, whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Stagecoach State Park is definitely worth a visit!

State Forest State Park

 

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State Forest State Park is a hidden gem located in the Medicine Bow Range of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. With its 70,838 acres, visitors will have plenty of room to roam and explore.

This park offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. It’s known for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and lush forested areas.

The park also has a visitors’ center, where you can learn about the park’s history, landscape, and local animals.

In fact, one of the park’s main attractions is its moose population. If you’re lucky, you may catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals during your visit!

Staunton State Park

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Staunton State Park is a gem in the Colorado state park system, located just a short drive from the Denver metro area.

The park boasts stunning rock formations, pristine streams, and a beautiful waterfall. Visitors can explore the park’s 3,908 acres of natural beauty on foot, by bike, or on horseback via the park’s extensive trail system.

If you love fishing, you can cast a line in one of the park’s ponds or streams, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

Finally, Staunton Ranch, a historic property located within the park, adds an extra layer of interest to this already amazing destination!

Steamboat Lake State Park

 

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Steamboat Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This Colorado state park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.

The 1,101-acre reservoir is a popular spot for water sports, and the park’s marina and boat ramps make it easy to get out on the water.

The park’s 5.5 miles of hiking trails offer spectacular views of the park’s diverse plant communities, including sagebrush shrubland, quaking aspen and lodgepole pine forests, willow carr, and marsh.

Finally, wildlife enthusiasts can look forward to spotting mule deer, red fox, and a variety of shorebirds and waterfowl.

Sweetwater Lake State Park

Sweetwater Lake State Park is a new addition to Colorado’s state park system, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!

Located in the stunning Flat Tops Wilderness Area, this 488-acre park is truly a gem. The park boasts an array of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping.

The lake itself is a great place to cast a line, as it’s home to rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.

The park’s location within the White River National Forest also means that visitors can enjoy access to miles and miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as incredible scenery.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded spot to unwind and connect with nature, Sweetwater Lake State Park is definitely worth a visit!

Sweitzer Lake State Park

 

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Sweitzer Lake State Park is a hidden gem nestled in Delta County, just one mile south of Delta. Established in 1960, the 210-acre park offers a tranquil escape with a 137-acre reservoir as its centerpiece. Visitors can take advantage of the boat ramp, swim beach, and picnic sites for a fun day out on the water.

Birdwatchers will be delighted to know that the park is home to 170 different species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.

The park owes its existence to Morgan Sweitzer, who generously donated a portion of the land to develop it into a recreational destination. Come enjoy the peaceful surroundings and scenic views at Sweitzer Lake State Park!

Sylvan Lake State Park

SYLVAN LAKE STATE PARK - COLORADO - USA

Nestled in the White River National Forest, Sylvan Lake State Park is a beautiful Colorado state park that offers visitors stunning natural scenery and an array of recreational activities.

Established in 1987, the park spans 1,548 acres and features a 42-acre lake surrounded by aspen groves, lodgepole pine, and Douglas fir forests.

Visitors can enjoy hiking on 1.5 miles of trails, fishing and boating in the lake, and camping at one of the park’s campsites, yurts, or cabins. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot black bears, elk, mule deer, pine martens, and beavers, while nature lovers can marvel at the wetland and riparian areas near the reservoir and creek.

The park’s facilities also include a visitor center, boat ramp, and picnic sites, making Sylvan Lake State Park a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a serene escape into nature.

Trinidad Lake State Park

 

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This state park is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of hiking trails, camping areas, and boating opportunities.

Trinidad Lake is home to some great historical attractions, such as the coal mining ruins at Cokedale, and a portion of the mountain route of the Santa Fe Trail runs through it.

One of the most unique features of the park is the exposed Cretaceous-Paleogene boundary (K-Pg boundary) in the southern part of the park. This geological formation is a rare find and an amazing sight to see!

So, whether you’re interested in history, geology, or just want to enjoy a relaxing day out in nature, Trinidad Lake State Park is definitely worth a visit.

Vega State Park


Nestled in Mesa County, Vega State Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning 1,823 acres (738 ha), the park is home to the Vega Reservoir, a renowned fishing spot set at an elevation of 7,696 feet (2,346 m).

The park was founded in 1967 in partnership with the Bureau of Reclamation, which oversaw the construction of the Vega Dam and Reservoir.

Vega’s year-round recreational offerings are diverse, ranging from boating and hiking to snowmobiling and camping, perfect for a getaway year-round!

Yampa River State Park

 

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If you’re looking for a great spot to experience the beauty of Colorado’s Yampa River, then Yampa River State Park is the perfect destination for you.

Located along the river in Routt and Moffat Counties in northwestern Colorado, the park provides access to 134 miles (216 km) of the Yampa River from Hayden to the eastern boundary of Dinosaur National Monument.

Boaters will find 13 access points along the way, while hikers can explore the river’s canyons and riparian zones, as well as the surrounding rock formations and natural habitats.

The park also has a visitor center with a nature trail located 17 miles (27 km) east of Craig, making it easy to learn about the history and ecology of the area.

Caleb Pike
About the author

Caleb Pike is an avid hiker and nature lover, with a passion for exploring the great outdoors. He's a writer, photographer, and adventurer, always seeking new trails to blaze and peaks to conquer.