Arapahoe County

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Parks

Colorado

Nearby: Arapahoe County Regional Park Broncos Training Complex

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Arapahoe County is a populous county located in the state of Colorado.

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Summary

It is home to numerous attractions that make it an ideal destination for tourists. Some of the top reasons to visit include the natural beauty of the area, excellent outdoor recreational opportunities, and various cultural activities.

One of the most popular attractions in Arapahoe County is Cherry Creek State Park, which features a large reservoir and numerous trails for hiking and biking. Other outdoor activities that visitors can enjoy include golfing, fishing, and camping in various parks and recreational areas throughout the county.

For those who are interested in history and culture, the Littleton Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the past of the area, while the Aurora History Museum showcases the city's cultural heritage. Additionally, the Colorado Ballet and the Denver Center for the Performing Arts are both located within the county and offer world-class performances throughout the year.

Interesting facts about Arapahoe County include that it was named after the Arapaho Native American tribe and was one of the original 17 counties established in the Colorado Territory. The county is also home to various historic sites, including ghost towns and old gold mines.

The best time of year to visit Arapahoe County varies depending on the activities visitors are interested in. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities, while the fall offers beautiful foliage and mild temperatures. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts during the winter months.

Overall, Arapahoe County is a diverse and exciting destination that offers something for everyone.

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.

Related References