Where in Colorado might CPW look to expand Colorado's state park system?
Colorado’s remarkable landscapes are drawing more and more people to the outdoors. Colorado Parks and Wildlife wants to provide more opportunities to enjoy our natural resources by exploring sites for future state parks. Do you know of a location that could be that next special place? Help CPW by nominating that site!
To Nominate a Site
The public is invited to propose sites for CPW to consider as we explore the potential for new state parks. These sites will be evaluated based on Future State Parks Criteria that were developed in 2019 with input from partner organizations and the public. See below for the criteria and nomination instructions.
To nominate a site, you will need to:
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Review the criteria provided below.
- Review the nomination instructions.
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Complete this nomination form.
For questions, please email CPW’s Policy and Planning section at:
Future State Parks Criteria
CPW's vision is that Colorado’s state parks connect people to natural wonders. Every state park should offer a unique place to experience Colorado and live life outside. To accomplish this vision, future Colorado state parks will support a system of state parks that:
Provides outstanding nature-based recreation. Everyone regardless of age, abilities or interest, is connected to Colorado's diverse landscapes. Exceptional nature-based recreation provides for visitor education and enjoyment.
Conserves natural resources. Large natural areas conserve resources and sensitive habitats. They also allow for sustainable outdoor recreation. Connections to conserved public and private lands advance landscape-scale conservation.
Meets Colorado’s needs. Attention is given to locations that will benefit from new outdoor recreation opportunities and resource conservation. Factors include distance to population centers, visitation demand, and ease of access. Future state parks are innovative, offer a range of amenities and experiences, and provide for evolving outdoor recreation interests. Colorado’s state parks system can adapt to changes in society, the environment and technology.
Provides community value. Future state parks engage nearby communities. Local economies and quality of life improve by having a state park. The benefits of Colorado’s state park system are available to everyone with attention to being inclusive and accessible.
Supports a financially sustainable system. Looking into the future and park system-wide, new state parks are financially practical, considering acquisition, development, operations and management.
