Are you planning a trip up in the Rockies and looking for the best state parks in Colorado to visit this summer? The Colorado state parks offer diverse recreational and exploratory activities for visitors. Popular activities include mountain climbing, camping, fishing, backcountry skiing, biking, and hiking.
These state parks offer visitors a chance to explore Colorado’s stunning scenery beyond the famous national park areas such as Rocky Mountain National Park and charming mountain towns of Breckenridge and Aspen.
Hidden in Colorado state parks, you will find unforgettable experiences: towering red rock formations, wildflower-filled meadows, surging creeks, and waterfalls!
Also Read: 17 Best National Parks and Monuments in Colorado
Best State Parks in Colorado
Colorado’s State Parks offer so much potential and vast open stretches of public land.
Take in the majestic mountain views, camp in the alpine tundra, and hike to cascading waterfalls.
Wake up to beautiful Aspens and tall Ponderosa Pine trees. Take a stroll to see fall foliage. Ride the mountain biking trails.
Search for dinosaur tracks and fossils on the hiking trails. Have a fun day outdoors with the kids.
Come explore some of Colorado’s best State Parks today!
Chatfield State Park
Located just south of Denver, Chatfield State Park is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.
This park is characterized by its wide-open spaces, mountain-framed landscapes, and innumerable activities.
The highlight of this park is Chatfield Reservoir on the South Platte River.
The reservoir is popular in the summer for boating, swimming, and paddleboarding, while the winter months offer ice fishing and cross-country skiing.
Another of the unique features of Chatfield State Park is its dedicated area for horseback riding.
Miles of trails traverse the expansive park, providing riders with expansive views and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
Additionally, the park is home to a marina, a swim beach, campsites, and ample picnic areas.
The bird-watching is superb with over 200 different species recorded – making it a much-loved spot for ornithologists.
Also Read: 8 Best Places for Horse Riding in Colorado
Rifle Falls State Park
Rifle Falls State Park is located near the town of Rifle, in the northwest part of Colorado.
Known for its signature triple waterfall, this park is a spectacle throughout the year and undoubtedly, one of the best state parks in Colorado.
The falls, plunging over a 70-foot limestone cliff, create a dramatic backdrop for diverse recreational activities.
The park is popular for hiking, with trails that take you past the base of the falls and through a lush, green woodland.
The Cottonwood and Box Elder trails provide opportunities for spotting local wildlife and appreciating the park’s unique geological features, including limestone caves.
For those interested in fishing, East Rifle Creek is home to a variety of fish species.
Camping is also a popular activity at the park, with drive-in and walk-in sites available for overnight stays.
The park’s location away from city lights makes it an excellent spot for stargazing.
Also Read: 23 Best Waterfalls in Colorado
Eleven Mile State Park
Located near Lake George, Eleven Mile State Park is a remarkable location in Colorado.
The park’s primary attraction is the vast Eleven Mile Reservoir, created by the impressive Eleven Mile Canyon Dam.
This large body of water is an attraction for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, windsurfing, and winter ice fishing.
Land-based activities, such as hiking, are also popular with miles of trails that provide stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
The park’s campgrounds provide overnight visitors with a beautiful backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
Wildlife viewing is also popular, with many species of birds to spot and the occasional sightings of larger wildlife such as elk and deer.
The park’s close proximity to Colorado Springs makes it an easy day trip for those visiting the city.
Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park, located in Aurora, is a prominent outdoor destination in Colorado.
This Colorado State Park is known for the vast Cherry Creek Reservoir.
It is popular with visitors wanting to enjoy a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and jet-skiing.
On land, the park provides an extensive network of trails for biking, hiking, and bird-watching.
Winter transforms the park into a snowy playground where you can engage in snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Wildlife sightings are common in this park, with frequent appearances of deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.
For overnight visitors, the park provides several campgrounds.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is situated in the Jefferson County of Colorado near the City of Golden.
It’s a park recognized not just for the variety of its outdoor activities, but for the breathtaking views accessible from Panorama Point Scenic Overlook.
Here, visitors can feast their eyes on a 100-mile, wide-angle view of the Continental Divide, a sight that leaves one in awe of nature’s magnificence.
Besides this stunning spectacle, the park is also home to more than 35 miles of diverse trails, open to hikers, bikers, and horse riders.
For those passionate about wildlife, the park is a playground filled with mule deer, elk, and various bird species.
With the changing seasons, the park’s beauty evolves, giving visitors a fresh perspective on each visit.
Eldorado Canyon State Park
Eldorado Canyon State Park resides close to Boulder, Colorado, and is a gem that provides an outstanding natural escape.
This park is recognized for its unique geologic history that has shaped its rugged landscape over millions of years.
Its towering sandstone cliffs attract the attention of rock climbing enthusiasts, with over 1,000 technical rock climbing routes that challenge even the most experienced climbers.
Visitors may also enjoy hiking on miles of scenic trails that wind through the park, leading to beautiful vistas of the Continental Divide.
The park’s Visitor Center provides valuable information about the park’s history, trails, and wildlife, making it a great starting point for your visit.
While the park’s reputation as a rock climbing mecca often steals the spotlight, Eldorado Canyon State Park also features picnic areas and the South Boulder Creek, a popular spot for fishing or just cooling off on a hot summer day.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, located just 8 miles away from downtown Colorado Springs, is a favorite with outdoor lovers.
This Colorado gem stands out with its expanse covering 2,701 acres, providing abundant space for various activities.
It’s an ideal destination for hikers, with over 20 miles of trails that traverse diverse terrain, providing stunning views of Cheyenne Mountain and the surrounding area.
These trails cater to varying skill levels, from gentle paths for a relaxing walk to challenging routes for more experienced hikers.
The park is also noted for its picnic areas, archery range, and a visitor center filled with engaging exhibits.
Wildlife observation is a popular activity, with the park hosting a variety of fauna including deer, foxes, and a range of bird species.
For those planning an extended visit, the park provides well-equipped campgrounds.
Barr Lake State Park
Located on the northeastern edge of the Denver Metropolitan Area, Barr Lake State Park is a prime location for keen observers of nature.
Covering 2,715 acres, the park is dominated by its namesake, Barr Lake, making it a favorite for birdwatchers and anglers.
The park’s wildlife viewing opportunities are impressive, with over 350 species of birds recorded.
Visitors can stroll along the numerous trails or take a ride on the park’s nature train to observe the diverse wildlife.
In addition, the park features a nature center that provides educational exhibits and programming for those interested in learning more about the park’s ecology.
Related Posts: 11 Best Places to See Wildlife in Colorado
Ridgway State Park
Located in the southwestern region of Colorado, Ridgway State Park is an incredible destination with a backdrop of the majestic San Juan Mountains.
The park is renowned for its year-round recreational activities and diverse wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, such as hiking, fishing, camping, boating, and picnicking.
In the winter, the park transforms into a winter sports playground with opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
The park’s campgrounds provide a comfortable base for exploring the surrounding areas.
For those interested in wildlife, Ridgway State Park is home to deer, elk, and a variety of bird species.
As part of the Colorado Birding Trail, it’s a favorite spot for bird watchers.
The park’s proximity to the historic town of Ridgway provides additional attractions, including local eateries and shops.
Roxborough State Park
Situated within the city limits of Denver, Roxborough State Park is an excellent location for outdoor activities.
The park’s most prominent features are its jaw-dropping red rock formations, which entice visitors from both near and far.
These geological wonders provide a stunning backdrop for activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
The park is crisscrossed with multiple trails, each delivering its unique view of the surrounding landscape and vegetation.
A distinctive variety of flora and fauna inhabit the park.
Sightings of black bear, mule deer, and coyotes are common, while the birdlife includes species such as the red-tailed hawk and the golden eagle.
The park also includes a visitor center where guests can learn more about the park’s geology and ecology.
Highline Lake State Park
Highline Lake State Park is strategically positioned in the city of Loma, northwest Colorado, and is a recognized destination due to its two distinct bodies of water – Highline Lake and Mack Mesa Lake.
These water bodies become a center of attraction for visitors who appreciate engaging in water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
Green landscapes surround the water, offering scenic settings for picnics and relaxation.
Ideal for those who savor nature walks, several trails cross through the park, providing options for hiking and mountain biking.
The park is home to various wildlife species, including migratory birds, making it a good spot for wildlife viewing.
Nighttime brings its own charm to the park, with comfortable camping facilities available for visitors who wish to stay overnight and observe the starlit sky.
Lory State Park
Lory State Park, situated close to Fort Collins, offers an exciting outdoor experience.
It’s an ideal spot for mountain biking enthusiasts with more than 26 miles of trails that range from easy to difficult.
The park also provides opportunities for horseback riding and rock climbing.
The Arthur’s Rock trail leads to a summit with a mesmerizing view of the Front Range city lights.
Visitors can also enjoy picnicking amidst the park’s scenic landscapes.
For water lovers, the nearby Horsetooth Reservoir is a perfect place for boating, fishing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Boyd Lake State Park
Boyd Lake State Park is located in Loveland, Colorado.
This park is a recreational hotspot with a large, fresh water lake as its centerpiece.
For those who enjoy water-based activities, the lake allows for boating, fishing, swimming, and jet skiing.
The land surrounding the lake features picnic spots and camping grounds for overnight stays.
The park’s trails invite visitors for bike rides or walks, and the winter season brings the possibility of ice fishing.
Wildlife observation is also a popular activity, with the park hosting diverse bird species.
Mueller State Park
Mueller State Park, situated near Divide in Teller County, Colorado, covers more than 5,000 acres of land characterized by diverse terrains.
The park features a variety of landscapes such as meadows speckled with wildflowers, aspen valleys, and coniferous forests, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities.
One of the park’s most popular attractions is its network of trails that provide opportunities for mountain biking.
With over 50 miles of trails, riders of all skill levels can enjoy the natural beauty of the park while getting a good workout.
Wildlife is also a common sight at Mueller State Park, with frequent sightings of elk, black bears, and mule deer.
In winter, Mueller State Park is a popular destination for cross country skiing and snowshoeing in Colorado.
Navajo State Park
Located near the border of Colorado and New Mexico, Navajo State Park stands among the best Colorado state parks.
It covers over 15,000 acres around the Navajo Reservoir, a site of interest for those drawn to water-based activities.
The park is home to a marina, and there are opportunities for boating, fishing, and water skiing for visitors.
Wildlife viewing is another attraction here, with a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles inhabiting the park and Navajo Lake.
For those interested in history, the Visitor Center provides insights into the reservoir’s creation and the local Navajo culture.
Comfortable campgrounds and picnic areas allow visitors to extend their stay and fully explore what the park has to offer.
St. Vrain State Park
Located near Longmont, St. Vrain State Park stands as testament to the diversity and beauty inherent in Colorado parks.
Its primary attraction, Barbour Ponds, is a network of over 10 water bodies that draw visitors for a range of activities.
Anglers will find the Ponds an inviting venue, with a variety of fish species populating the water.
You can catch northern pike, rainbow trout, panfish, walleye, and catfish.
Set against the backdrop of the striking Rocky Mountains, the park’s landscapes contribute to a serene environment ideal for hiking, bird watching, and photography.
Wildlife sightings are not uncommon, adding a layer of excitement to any visit.
When the day transitions to evening, St. Vrain State Park presents one of the most spectacular sunsets imaginable, casting the sky in hues of gold, pink, and purple.
This spectacle alone is reason enough to visit, making St. Vrain State Park an essential stop if you want to conquer top of Colorado’s state parks.
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, located in Colorado, is a top destination for visitors who value the unique combination of striking landscapes and engaging outdoor activities.
The Arkansas River, one of the longest in the country, passes through the center of the state recreation area and is an integral part of its appeal.
The river’s rapids provide excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting, and its calmer stretches are perfect for fishing.
As for the land surrounding the river, it’s marked by numerous trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking.
The surrounding mountains add to the beauty of the area, their snow-capped peaks forming a stunning backdrop against the blue Colorado sky.
Wildlife is abundant here, with sightings of deer, eagles, and other species a common occurrence.
Paonia State Park
Paonia State Park is located in Gunnison County, Colorado, and is known for its beautiful landscapes that include the majestic Elk Mountains and deep canyon vistas.
This state park is an excellent choice for visitors due to its many amenities.
Among these are boating and fishing opportunities in the park’s reservoir, and well-maintained trails for hiking.
The park’s location within the Elk Mountains offers spectacular views and a chance to encounter local wildlife.
Additionally, the park is located close to the town of Paonia, which can provide further activities to visitors.
The deep canyon within the park is another highlight, with its striking rock formations and expansive vistas.
Yampa River State Park
Yampa River State Park, located in northwest Colorado, is known for its spectacular scenery.
This park spans a considerable stretch along the Yampa River, providing several recreational activities.
Enthusiasts of boating and fishing will find the park’s river facilities appealing, while the numerous trails invite exploration on foot or bicycle.
This park is a popular spot for birdwatching, with a diverse bird population.
Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are also available at the park.
The best state parks in Colorado are sure to inspire and awe no matter the season.
What is your favorite state park in Colorado? Let us know below.