It's no secret that Denver loves its parks... In fact, did you know that the Mile High City has not only one of the best park systems in the country, but some of the best state parks as well? That's right -- you don't have to travel to the mountains to find one of these scenic gems; just visit this hidden park that will make you feel like you've discovered Denver's best kept secret:
Located in Brighton, Barr Lake State Park is a true oasis that will make you think you left the big city for a picturesque state park in the heart of the mountains!
(Psst... Barr Lake State Park also hosts a Bald Eagle Festival, complete with crafts and a presentation! This year's event takes place on February 4th from 10 am to 2 pm.)
Half of the grand state of Colorado is preserved in public land, and millions of visitors flock here every year to relax and recreate on the hallowed grounds of our national parks. But, did you know there are also 42 (lesser-known and less frequented) state parks in Colorado? We previously highlighted the wonders of Golden Gate Canyon State Park in our camping segment, and here are seven other phenomenal state parks in Denver and the surrounding area with plenty of opportunities for activity and tranquility year-round.
Tucked away in the foothills southwest of Denver is an almost 4,000-acre recreational paradise. Chatfield State Park is known for its hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, hot air ballooning, and even model airplane flying, but its biggest draw is undoubtedly the 1,423-acre reservoir on site. With its swim beach and full-service boat marina (including rentals), this park is a popular playground for kayakers, sailors, fishermen, canoers, and water-skiers. After plenty of fun in the sun, chow down at the park's floating restaurant, and don't forget the entry fee to support the park upkeep and maintenance. Read more about it in this article!
At the edge of Eldorado Springs near Boulder, lies one of Colorado's most scenic canyons. The massive sandstone outcroppings at Eldorado Canyon provide world-class rock climbing and about 750 technical routes. But if that's not your (chalk) bag, there is also plenty of hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing to keep you entertained. Read more in this article.
Denver's backyard playground boasts an 880-acre reservoir, 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and over 100 newly renovated campsites (some with full hookups). Whether you're looking for birds, jet skis, or model airplanes, you'll spot them flying about at Cherry Creek. Read all about it in this article about its most amazing features.
Colorado's newest state park, which opened in 2013, is a geological wonder with soaring granite cliffs, varied water features, rare plants, diverse wildlife, and, of course, an abundance of recreational activities. The 3,828 acres of Staunton State Parks provide a fresh haven for climbers, hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and local wildlife. Learn more in this article.
Speaking of wildlife, Barr Lake State Park is home to some of the best birdwatching in Colorado. It's the headquarters for the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory and is also an Audubon Society Important Bird Area. Just 30 minutes from Denver, this 2,000-acre lake surrounded by willow grasses, cottonwoods, and marshland, truly is an "oasis on the prairie." Read more in this article.
This hidden canyon cut out long ago by Cherry Creek, which still flows along its canyon floor, is home to the historical Castlewood Canyon dam, Bridge Canyon Overlook, and a natural amphitheater. There are about a dozen trails just perfect for a mild to moderate hike or trail run and plenty of picturesque picnic areas. (Notes: There's an entry fee; there's NO camping; dogs are not allowed on the East Canyon Preservation Trail.) Learn more about the amazing hiking here in this article.
The awe-inspiring red rock formations at Roxborough State Park are a true geological spectacle to behold! Its nearly 4,000 acres accommodates hikers of all levels, as well as boating and fishing on half of the park's lake. There are 1,000 acres designated as a wildlife refuge, and you could easily spy a black bear, mule deer, or red fox milling about the grounds. Over 350 avian species have been recorded, including nesting bald eagles that have returned every year since 1986. Ornithologists rejoice! This dramatic landscape provides a uniquely, tranquil escape from the city and is not to be missed. (Note: In order to preserve its beauty and wildlife, there is NO camping, biking, horses, or pets of ANY kind allowed. And, yes, that means Fido). Read more in this article.
Want to share your experiences at these fabulous Colorado state parks? Did we leave any of your favorites off our list? Tell us in the comments!
It is no secret that Colorado is chock-full of amazing state parks (42, to be exact) and we here at Only in Your State just can't seem to get our fill. But can you blame us? While you could travel for hours at a time to visit just one of those outdoor oases, we recommend staying close and visiting one of these under-appreciates state parks located in (or around) the city of Denver:
Colorado's newest state park (opened in May 2013) is also one of the most beautiful, boasting nearly 4,000 acres worth of hiking opportunities, dramatic cliffs, and other unique ecological features that you will not find anywhere else in the Denver area. Read more about the newest addition to Colorado's state parks family in this article.
Your eyes do not deceive you; Denver IS indeed home to a sandy beach! But that isn't the only thing you will find at Cherry Creek, which also offers some of the best water sports and camping opportunities in the region. Learn more about Cherry Creek State Park in this article!
Located south of Parker, Castlewood Canyon State Park is not only a great place to walk around and explore, but also a historically significant area, as the state park once housed the large Castlewood Dam (which burst and flooded Downtown Denver in 1933). Remnants of the dam can still be seen today. Read about our favorite incredible hike through Castlewood Canyon in this article.
Don't let the acreage of St. Vrain State Park fool you, for what it lacks in size (with its 50 acres of land and 80 acres of water), it makes up for with killer bird watching (keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles!) and fishing opportunities. Read more about the park on its official website.
Doesn't this look like the setting of a gorgeous watercolor painting? Believe it or not, it is real life and can be experienced just outside of Boulder! (Psst... a little birdie tells us that if you like to rock climb, this is THE place to do it.) Read more about Eldorado Canyon and all its amazingness in this article.
Last but certainly not least on our list of underrated Denver-area parks is Littleton's Chatfield; a popular park that is known for not only its gorgeous scenery, but special events, beaches, and exciting water sports as well. Read more here!
Which Denver-area state park is YOUR favorite? Tell us about it in the comments! We love hearing from you.
