Colorado's Top 10 State Parks

From the rugged Medicine Bow Mountains of State Forest State Park to the frothy rapids of the Arkansas Headwaters, Colorado has a state park system that makes other countries jealous. Funny thing is, many Coloradans don't know about these outdoor gems. Here, we introduce you to the best of the best.

From the rugged Medicine Bow Mountains of State Forest State Park to the cascading rapids of the Arkansas Headwaters to the sandstone outcroppings of Eldorado Canyon, Colorado has a state parks system that makes other countries jealous. Funny thing is, many Coloradans don't know about these outdoor gems. Whether it's because we're running to our admittedly amazing national parks, or because we're happy to find our own spots to play, many of us drive right past Colorado's 42 state parks. And that's something we'd like to remedy, especially considering that these are our play parks—places in which we can hike, bike, boat, swim, camp, and fish. Here, we introduce you to the best of the best.

1. Eleven Mile State Park
2. Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area
3. Highline Lake State Park
4. Navajo State Park
5. State Forest State Park
6. Mueller State Park
7. Golden Gate Canyon State Park
8. Eldorado Canyon State Park
9. Barr Lake State Park
10. Lory State Park