Explore Colorado's 42 Stunning State Parks

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Colorado is home to an impressive array of 42 state parks, in addition to its renowned national parks and monuments. This article takes readers on a tour of the state's diverse natural landscapes, from the massive 70,838-acre Colorado State Forest State Park to the historic Lathrop State Park, the first to open in 1962. Readers will learn about the unique features and activities available at each of Colorado's beautiful state park destinations.

Why it matters

Colorado's state parks offer residents and visitors alike a chance to immerse themselves in the state's stunning natural beauty, from rugged mountains and serene lakes to lush forests and winding rivers. As the popularity of outdoor recreation continues to grow, these parks provide important recreational opportunities and help preserve Colorado's iconic landscapes for future generations.

The details

Colorado boasts an impressive 42 state parks, in addition to its four national parks and eight national monuments. While New York leads the nation with 178 state parks, Colorado has been more selective in designating its protected natural areas. The state's largest park is the Colorado State Forest State Park, covering over 70,000 acres in the Medicine Bow Mountains. Other notable parks include Lathrop State Park, the first to open in 1962 and named after the state's inaugural parks director, and Cherry Creek State Park, which predates the official state park designation, opening in 1959. Mesa County is home to three state parks: Highline Lake, Vega, and James M. Robb Colorado River.

• Colorado State Forest State Park opened in the 1960s.
• Lathrop State Park opened in 1962, making it the first state park in Colorado.
• Cherry Creek State Park opened in 1959, before the official state park designation.