Parks and Trails
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a fitness lover, or just seeking a peaceful retreat, our parks offer something special for everyone.
Douglas County is in Stage 2 Fire Restrictions by order of the Sheriff. Visit the Douglas County Sherriff’s office page to learn more about what is allowed during a Stage 2 Fire Restriction.
Since 1994, a voter-approved 0.17% sales and use tax has helped preserve parks, trails, historic resources and open spaces throughout Douglas County – including funds set aside for cities and towns within Douglas County. In 2022, more than 87% of Douglas County voters approved to extend that sales tax, which is expected to generate $350 million over 15 years to preserve, protect and maintain our parks, trails, historic resources, and open space.
To further understand the community’s priorities for this fund, the County engaged citizens with a survey in 2024. Survey methodology was designed to ensure the best means for reaching a statistically accurate and representative sample of opinion from Douglas County residents, aged 18 and older.
The results of that survey were presented to the Board of Douglas County Commissioners on Sept. 10, 2024.
As required by state law, this fund accounts for revenues derived from the 0.17% sales and use tax initially approved by voters in November 1994 and most recently extended by voters in November 2022. Monies are designated for the acquisition, administration, planning, development and construction, operations, and maintenance of parks, trails, historic resources, and open space.
Consistent with the ballot measure, the Parks, Trails, Historic Resources & Open Space Fund must:
Funding Distribution
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a fitness lover, or just seeking a peaceful retreat, our parks offer something special for everyone.
The shared history of Colorado and Douglas County gives local communities a deep connection to their surroundings and a sense of place.
More than 65,000 acres of protected open space land enhances the quality of life in Douglas County.