The only list you need for free and low-cost family fun…
Our counties are home to a fantastic variety of free and low-cost activities to keep your family active and outdoors all year!
Recreation Centers
Recreation Centers are a great way to access all our community offers! Some of the fun things you can expect to find are indoor and outdoor pools, swimming lessons, playgrounds, children’s sports, and various outdoor activities and camps.
Jefferson, Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties are home to many different Rec Centers that each offer their own variety of activities, both indoor and outdoor. Check them all out and find the activities that are the most fun for your family.
Several of the Rec Centers also offer outdoor fitness areas where you can work out in the fresh air. You can join a fitness class (fee and registration required) or do your own workout at these outdoor facilities.
Learn more and find Rec Center locations:
- Jefferson County Recreation Centers
- Outdoor Fitness Facilities in Jeffco
- Clear Creek Recreation Center
- Gilpin County Community Center
Hit the Hiking/Snowshoeing Trail!
Jefferson, Gilpin and Clear Creek Counties are home to some beautiful, kid-friendly trails and open spaces that are fun in the summer and in the snow! Here are a few of our favorites:
Mt. Falcon Park, Indian Hills – Enjoy a tower overlook as you walk through this beautiful landscape.
Lair o’ The Bear Park, Idledale – A great hike for kids, make sure to pack a picnic to enjoy by Bear Creek while you adventure through the Lair!
Red Rocks Amphitheater, Morrison – Hiking through the beautiful landscape surrounding Red Rocks Amphitheater is a fantastic way to fill an afternoon and perfect for hikers of all ages and abilities.
Crown Hill Park, Wheat Ridge – Spectacular views surround this hidden oasis in its suburban location. With trails that wind around wetlands and outcroppings of trees, you’ll be in prime bird-watching territory.
Meyer Ranch Park, Morrison – Experience breathtaking fields of wildflowers as you escape to nature on these flora-filled trails.
Dinosaur Ridge, Morrison – Walk along trails that are home to over 300 dinosaur tracks. Learn about geology and fossils and the fascinating dinosaurs that inhabited this area millions of years ago.
Three Sisters Park, Evergreen – Massive rock formations and breathtaking views of the continental divide make this a hike the whole family will love. Don’t be surprised if you spot a hawk or two on these popular bird-watching trails.
Lookout Mountain Preserve and Nature Center, Golden – Connect with nature, and experience some of our state’s beauty through hiking, free educational programs, and tours.
Pine Valley Ranch Park, Pine – Enjoy hiking, fishing, and outdoor fun at this beautiful lake in Pike National Forrest surrounded by kid-approved trails and recreation areas.
Cool Off at Splash Pads and Parks
With so many families in Jefferson County, the area is home to many great playgrounds and summer splash pads. Each one is unique and offers something special. Some parks are free, and others charge an admission fee. Most open around Memorial Day.
Take time this summer to explore them all!
- Clement Park Splash Pad, Littleton
- Ray Ross Park and Splash Pad, Lakewood
- Surfside Spray Park, Lakewood
- Carmody Pool and Splash Pad, Lakewood
- The Splash at Fossil Trace, Golden
- Ralston Central Park and Splash Pad, Arvada
- Lions Park, Golden
- Civic Green Park, Highlands Ranch
- Maple Grove Park, Golden
- Discovery Park, Golden
Play Mini-Golf
Mini-Golf is a low-cost way to get the family together for some friendly competition while enjoying the outdoors. With several options to choose from, these mini-golf spots offer a variety of activity options including go-carts and rock climbing.
- Adventure Golf and Raceway, Westminster
- Daniel L. Schaefer Athletic Complex, Denver
- Colorado Journey Miniature Golf, Englewood
- Putters Pride, Denver
Explore State Parks
Camp, hike, fish, bike, and explore at the Jefferson County State Parks. With so much to offer, and a small entry fee, you can spend all day enjoying the outdoors. Pack a picnic and bring your swimsuit to take advantage of these outdoor spaces.
- Chatfield State Park, Littleton
- Golden Gate Canyon State Park, Golden
- Staunton State Park, Pine
Go Camping
Looking for a way to escape reality for a few days in the outdoors? Jefferson County is home to various camping spots for tent camping, as well as yurts and cabin rentals. Camping is an inexpensive option to rest and recharge in nature with the whole family.
- Jefferson County Open Space, Golden and Conifer
- Beaver Meadows Ranch Campground, Conifer
- Bear Creek Lake Park, Morrison
- Clear Creek County camping information
Have Fun at the Public Libraries
Clear Creek County Library District
Jefferson County Public Library
Get Out There!
There are so many active and outdoor activities to choose from in and around Jeffco, Giplin and Clear Creek. With this list, there’s no excuse not to get outside!