Colorado.com Staff Writer

<p>Colorado is a paradise for outdoor lovers, boasting <a href="https://www.colorado.com/co/colorado-state-parks">43 state parks</a> that showcase the state’s diverse landscapes, from towering red-rock formations and rugged canyons to vast grassland and alpine lakes. Whether you're looking to embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure, set up camp under the stars, paddle across crystal-clear waters or spot incredible wildlife, there's a perfect state park waiting for you.</p>
<p>Explore the list below for breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities and unforgettable experiences. Pack your gear, hit the road and get ready to explore Colorado like never before!</p>


10 Colorado State Parks to Visit This Summer

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A Beach Day at Jackson Lake State Park

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<h2>Hiking</h2>
<h3>1. Roxborough State Park, <a href="https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/littleton">Littleton</a></h3>


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Roxborough State Park

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State Forest State Park

10 Colorado State Parks to Visit This Summer State Forest Image

<p>As Colorado’s largest state park, <a href="https://www.colorado.com/walden/state-forest-state-park">State Forest State Park</a> is home to some of the best wildlife viewing in the state. Known as the "Moose Capital of Colorado," it boasts a population of over 600 moose, along with bears, elk, foxes and mountain lions. The <a href="https://trails.colorado.gov/trails/lake-agnes-15923#activity=hiking">Lake Agnes Trail</a> (1.8 miles round trip) leads to a gorgeous alpine lake, while visitors can also explore deep forests, rocky peaks and wildflower-filled meadows. Whether you’re hiking, camping or fishing, keep your camera ready — wildlife sightings are frequent here!</p>
<h2>Stargazing</h2>
<h3>9. Jackson Lake State Park, Orchard</h3>
<p>Known as “an oasis on the plains,” <a href="https://www.colorado.com/orchard/jackson-lake-state-park">Jackson Lake State Park</a> is one of the best stargazing spots in Colorado. This International Dark Sky Park offers incredible views of the night skies with clear sightings of the Milky Way, planets and meteor showers. The park’s remote location on the Eastern Plains means minimal light pollution, making it a prime destination for astronomy enthusiasts. During the day, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming and sandy beaches around the 2,700-acre lake.</p>
<h3>10. Eleven Mile State Park, <a href="https://www.colorado.com/cities-and-towns/lake-george">Lake George</a></h3>
<p>With its remote location away from city lights, <a href="https://www.colorado.com/lake-george/eleven-mile-state-park">Eleven Mile State Park</a> is another fantastic destination for stargazing. Spend the daytime fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing; when night falls, scan the skies for constellations, planets and shooting stars. Camping at Eleven Mile offers an especially beautiful setting as you can watch the stars reflect on the reservoir’s mirror-like surface. </p>
<h2>Plan Your Summer Adventure!</h2>
<p>Colorado’s state parks are an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from scenic hikes and camping spots to water sports and wildlife viewing. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend trip or an extended adventure, these parks have something for everyone.</p>


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