National and State Parks in Colorado
Colorado’s abundance of National and State Parks is just one reason why this state is so special. There are 4 National parks and 42 State Parks. All of these parks have been preserved for various reasons; however, you can expect to find an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife. State Parks include RV and tent camping amenities, along with other features unique to each location. Although National Parks allow camping and there are some designated campgrounds, they don’t have the scale of amenities that the State Parks have.
Colorado’s National Parks
- Rocky Mountain National Park – One of the most popular National Parks in the United States (located just 65 miles from Denver).
- Mesa Verde National Park – located in southwest Colorado. Explore ancient cliff-dwelling civilizations from 600 A.D.
- Great Sand Dunes National Park – Located in the San Luis Valley, southcentral Colorado. The Old Spanish Trail skirts the southern region. Try sand sledding, skiing, and sandboarding.
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Located on the western slope between Grand Junction and Telluride. The park is known for its amazingly narrow canyons, carved over millions of years.
Colorado State Parks
Home to over 40 State Parks. Colorado’s state parks offer some of the best outdoor recreation in all of the U.S., including Camping, fishing, hiking, rock climbing, and water sports. It’s all here and much more, often just a short drive from Denver. Plan your trip with a free visitor’s guide. Take time to check out at least a few of these amazing natural wonders. Check out our State Park’s Guide to find more details about each park.
Colorado’s National Forest and Grasslands
Explore 11 National Forest and 2 National Grasslands. These large public lands span north to south, mainly located in Colorado’s central rocky mountain region. National forests provide an abundance of wildlife and recreation opportunities.
Colorado’s BLM
Colorado has 8.3 million acres of public land and more than 27 million acres of mineral estate. The BLM manages resources and recreational use on these lands.
Visiting Colorado’s National and State Park
Visiting Colorado’s National and State Parks is a must-do for locals and tourists. Visiting all National and State Parks is not feasible unless you make it a mission. If you look around, you will notice that they are in close proximity to popular towns and cities throughout Colorado. Depending on your interests, you can find State and National Parks that will satisfy your outdoorsy self.
Ancient Aliens Live
May 23
1621 Glenarm Pl., Denver, COExperience the long-running hit program “Ancient Aliens” LIVE on tour! This interactive event explores thoug
Boulder Creek Festival
May 24 - May 27
212 Canyon Blvd, Boulder, COBoulder Creek Festival will be taking place from May 25 – May 27 with a Friday night concert on May 24. 4 Days, 30
Learn to Curl with the Broadmoor Curling Club
May 25
3185 Venetucci Blvd, Colorado Springs, COThe Broadmoor Curling Club is holding a Learn to Curl Clinic 25 May 24. We welcome those who have never tried curling an
Outside Festival
Jun 01 - Jun 02
Denver Civic Center Park, 101 14th Ave., Denver, COThe first-ever Outside Festival will take place in downtown Denver from June 1-2, 2024. This new event is a one-of-a-kin
Steamboat Marathon
Jun 02
Steamboat Springs, COJoin us on June 2, 2024 for the 43rd running of the Steamboat Marathon, Half Marathon and 10k. Run alongside the roaring
GoPro Mountain Games Vail
Jun 06 - Jun 09
Vail, COCome celebrate 21 years with us! The nonprofit Vail Valley Foundation, which hosts the GoPro Mountain Games each year, l
Dream State
Jun 06 - Jun 08
119 Park Ave W., Denver, COCome out of your dark day into a brighter night, join us in our Dream State. Set to a selection of music from the Academ
Pikes Peak Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show
Jun 07 - Jun 09
1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd, Colorado Springs, COThe Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society is excited to announce our 2024 Pikes Peak Gem, Mineral, & Jewelry Show!
Frida’s Wings
Jun 07 - Jun 08
2590 Walnut Street, Boulder, COIn Frida’s Wings, Danse Etoile Ballet will explore the art and life of this famed artist, a contrast of tradition
USS Nationals 2024 Presented by Cerberus Strength
Jun 08
National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St, Denver, COWe are very excited to have everyone head west to come visit the beautiful Colorado in June of 2024! This event will con