This large, spacious reservoir on the high plains draws locals and tourists alike from May through September and waterfowl hunters during the hunting season.  North Sterling State Park is a gateway to fun and relaxation. Elks Campground is open year-round.

Camp near a babbling stream, water-ski on a mountain reservoir, have a picnic, observe wildlife, all in view of the majestic Ragged Mountains. The park's natural beauty and abundance of wildflowers make it a "must see" for photographers and nature lovers.

Nestled in the mountains north of Steamboat Springs, this peaceful park sits in a quiet forest setting. Surrounded by mountains and trees, visitors camp along the lake and up a gentle hill.

Only 15 miles from the town of Ouray, Ridgway's great outdoors - the "Switzerland of America" - welcomes those from near and far. The park’s popular campgrounds, beautiful reservoir, picnic and playground areas, extensive trails, and diverse wildlife offer year-round activities for all types of outdoor enthusiasts. Come enjoy our swimbeach too!

The falls is a lush area of trees and greenery kept moist by the spray of the cascading triple waterfall. Picnicking near the falls is very popular. Mysterious limestone caves beneath the falls entice spelunkers and other curious visitors to explore their dark depths. Because of its dramatic setting, many weddings and events have been held at Rifle Falls.

The long, narrow reservoir is inviting to water-skiers, jet-skiers and power boaters. Rifle Gap often has good conditions for sailing and windsurfing. The beach on the west side of the reservoir is popular for its swimming  Rifle Gap anglers catch rainbow and German brown trout, walleye, pike, smallmouth and largemouth bass and yellow perch.

Roxborough is a Colorado Natural Area and a National Natural Landmark for good reason. The park, with close to 4000-acres, is filled with dramatic red-rock formations, distinct plant communities, and a host of wildlife ranging from black bears to mule deer.

In the shadow of the Great Sand Dunes National Park is peaceful San Luis State Park and Wildlife Area. Waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds and raptors fill the sky over this unique desert ecosystem, making San Luis an outstanding watchable wildlife area most of the year.

For gold medal fishing, it’d be hard to find any better than Spinney Mountain Reservoir. Anglers can find shoreline or fly fishing, belly boating or trolling opportunities in a peaceful and scenic setting. Check the Conditions page for current fishing conditions.

A year-round destination, the park also makes a great base to explore the variety of sports and attractions of the area. An array of activities await with boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking and camping.

The ultimate in rugged Colorado, State Forest State Park offers visitors 71,000 acres of forest, jagged peaks, alpine lakes, wildlife and miles of trails.  The park stretches along the west side of the Medicine Bow Mountains and into the north end of the Never Summer Range. 

Staunton State Park is expected to open as the 43rd State Park in the Colorado State Park System.  The park is currently not open to the public and will remain closed until a full public planning process is completed and park infrastructure has been constructed.

One of the true jewels of Colorado, Steamboat Lake State Park has something special for everyone.  Whatever your preference, well-deserved relaxation and recreation awaits you.

Ponds that are home to graceful Egrets, white Pelicans and tall Cormorants, invite vistors to observe and enjoy nature to the fullest.  The Park has great new facillities, with more under construction, such as additional hiking trails and Blue Heron Reservoir opening in the near future.

It started out as a community dream.  This lake based retreat for the Western Slope provides day-use nature, picnic and water recreation.

Sylvan provides serenity in an alpine park perfect for daydreaming. Non-motorized boating and non-electrical camping offer the opportunity for quiet recreation at this gateway to the White River National Forest and the Holy Cross Wilderness.

The mild climate and large lake are ideal for water sports. Anglers catch rainbow and brown trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, crappie and bluegill. All types of boaters appreciate the open waters and modern services. 

The boat ramps are now open for a fun season of boating, fishing, sailing, and water skiing.  Be sure to stop at the Entrance ANS station to have your boat inspected before launching.  Vega is great year round for birding, hiking among the changing aspen, ice fishing and cross-country skiing. Snowmobilers  and off-highway vehicle riders can access hundreds of miles of trails in Grand Mesa National Forest from Vega Early Settlers campground, cabins or OHV lot.

The Headquarters on the Yampa River near Hayden, Colorado, provides excellent camping, a Visitor Center and nature trail. The Headquarters has 50 camp sites; 35 are RV electric sites, 10 tent sites and five sites for group camping. The proximity to Hwy 40 makes the Headquarters the base camp for many outdoor activities in the Steamboat area: hunting, fishing, and OHV riding.