Colorado's natural beauty is continuing to draw people in droves, with state parks welcoming around eight million visitors this year, as Governor Jared Polis and Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced today. With 43 parks to choose from, outdoor enthusiasts are indulging in everything from river rafting to campfire gatherings, contributing significantly to the state's economic prosperity.
According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, in 2024, visits to state parks generated a massive $147 million in revenue, and this year's tally is on a steady climb. As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, a high point for park visitations, planning is advised to avoid disappointment.
Highlighting the diversity of the state's natural terrains, CPW Director Jeff Davis stated, "Wherever you go in Colorado, there’s a state park waiting to welcome you," as per Colorado Parks and Wildlife. From mountain peaks to sprawling plains, residents and visitors alike are finding respite and adventure within Colorado's myriad landscapes.
Further encouraging park visitations, the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, birthed from SB21-249 and signed by Governor Polis in 2021, slashes the cost of park entry by 60 percent. With a price reduction from $80 to $29, this pass has already seen 1.5 million Coloradans taking advantage of the opportunity to explore the outdoors at a discount, adding a hefty $39.7 million to the state's park maintenance funds and supporting outdoor first responders.
