Known for its diverse natural beauty ranging from deserts to snow-covered peaks, Colorado is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The 42 official state parks provide a wide variety of year-round recreation. From hiking and biking to camping and boating, each park has its own unique landscape. Explore 300-million-year-old red sandstone formations at Roxborough State Park or marvel at the triple waterfalls at Rifle Falls State Park. Which adventure will you choose to go on?
Check out the top 10 state parks in Colorado:
1. Eldorado Canyon State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Eldorado Canyon is one of the top-rated state parks in Colorado by Googlers as the views are just unbeatable. The park was established in 1978 and is a favorite for rock climbing, hiking, or picnic with friends. There are trails suitable for all levels of hikers. The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail takes you through the forest and up to the Continental Divide Overlook which has breathtaking views of the mountains, and the Front Range as well. You can even fill up your water bottle straight from the Eldorado Canyon springs to enjoy crisp and clean water. Parking is definitely worth it at $10 per vehicle. Although it can be a bit hectic on the weekends or holidays, visitors can expect to easily find a parking spot on weekdays.
2. Castlewood Canyon State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Castlewood Canyon State Park is a perfect place for hikers and history lovers. This state park is just under an hour’s drive south of Denver, the capital of Colorado. There are miles of trails weaving visitors through jaw-dropping beauty plus several historic stops along the way including the crumbling remains of the Castlewood Canyon Dam and the former Lucas Homestead ruins. There are even stacks of rocks serving as trail markers to prevent hikers from getting lost. Trails range from half-mile to four miles long. Gates are promptly closed at sunset, so make sure to arrive early to take advantage of the $10 daily park pass. Leashed dogs are allowed on most trails.
3. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Beautiful, rugged nature and diverse wildlife can be found at Golden Gate Canyon State Park. Take the Raccoon Trail for an enjoyable hike, and for something a bit more challenging, try the Black Bear-Horseshoe loop which is a little over five miles. Parking is $10 but note that the spots are a bit tight. The state park is conveniently located at the foothills of the Rockies, accessible by public transportation, and just 40 minutes from downtown Denver. All in all, there’s great hiking, camping, and some amazing backcountry sites.
4. Roxborough State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Roxborough State Park is a tranquil and treasured place known for its striking 300-million-year-old red sandstone formations. This state park is lesser known than Red Rocks Park which is about a 30-minute drive north of the park, but an overall better experience and well worth the drive. In 1980, the park was designated a National Natural Landmark for its number of ecological systems and geological formations. The easier walking paths are suitable for all ages while the more advanced trails allow you to get up close and personal with flora and fauna.
5. Rifle Falls State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Rifle Falls State Park is a smaller park that packs a punch with a unique 70-foot triple waterfall. A day pass is $9 for vehicles and $4 for those on foot or bike. It is only a short walk to the waterfalls once inside the park. For a little more challenge, hike through the limestone caves to the waterfalls instead. There are also drive-in and walk-in campsites on the south side of East Rifle Creek that are beautiful but a bit rustic. Rifle Falls State Park is a great side trip if you are traveling on I-70.
6. Staunton State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Staunton State Park is a beautiful park located just about 40 miles southwest of Denver. It is a fun place to bike, hike, camp, fish, bird watch, and more. Keep an eye out for bears as they are up in the higher parts of the park. The area has a mix of pine and aspen with well-maintained trails and clean bathrooms. The park also has a wonderful group of friendly volunteers if you’re looking to give back to the community. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails, and most visitors respectfully abide by this rule!
7. Mueller State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Mueller State Park is a 5,112-acre hiker’s paradise that has a top-notch campground. The campsite and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained. Sites have coin-automated showers, water, electricity, and dump sites available. There are plenty of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders that provide amazing views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountain range. Pets are only allowed at campsites and not on the trails themselves.
8. Sylvan Lake State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Sylvan Lake State Park is known as a photographer’s dream for its picturesque mountain scenery. The park was recently renovated with upgrades made to the lakefront campsites. Paddleboards and kayaks can be easily rented right beside the crystal-clear lake and there’s a designated swimming area as well. This is a lovely place for large groups and families with young kids or dogs. In the winter, stay in the cabins for a serene and quaint experience. You can even rent snowshoes for free from the visitor center!
9. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Just south of Colorado Springs is Cheyenne Mountain State Park, a 2,701-acre ‘crown jewel’ in Colorado’s extensive state park system. The land is relatively untouched, providing diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. As such, dogs are only permitted on certain trails but are welcomed in campsites and picnic areas. The trail system includes 28 miles of hiking and biking paths. For extreme adventurers, check out Dixon Trail or Dragon’s Backbone. These trails make you work hard, but the awe-inspiring views pay off. There is also a plane crash site from 1957 with debris still scattered over the area. Campsites are large and spacious – make sure to reserve well in advance.
10. Ridgway State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Only 15 miles from Ouray, the ‘Switzerland of America,’ is Ridgway State Park which sits at the base of the San Juan Mountains. The park features campgrounds, a reservoir, picnic and playground areas, swimming, fishing, extensive trails, and diverse wildlife. On your visit, you may spot cottontail rabbits, eagles, deer, or coyotes. Ridgway is typically a quiet, restful place and easily accessible just off Highway 550 in southwestern Colorado. The campsites are large and not tightly squeezed together. Visitors recommend booking a campsite in Elk Ridge as that area has more shade and better views.
The Centennial State
Thinking of moving to Colorado? Check out our other articles on ‘Best Places to Live in Colorado’ and when you’re ready to find your new home, you can find new listings every day at NewHomeSource.com.
*All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of Google reviews.
Rakini Bergundy was born in a little surf town called Houhai in China and loves writing. She’s passionate about dogs, home renovations, and politics.
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