Have you ever taken in the view from the top of Spruce Mountain or Bayou Gulch Regional Park? Reeled in a fish at Rueter-Hess? Wandered through miles of trails at Sandstone Ranch, or gotten lost in the trees and sounds of nature at Dawson Butte? These experiences and every acre of the thousands protected and maintained by Douglas County are possible because of your overwhelming appreciation and support.
2025 is the year to celebrate these cherished spaces that make Douglas County one of the happiest and healthiest counties in the nation as we mark 30 years of the voter-approved Parks, Trails, Historic Resources and Open Space Fund, the creation of the Douglas County Department of Open Space and Natural Resources and all that has been preserved, protected and built in three decades.
To thank you for your partnership in preserving and protecting our public lands, you, your family and friends are invited to a Fall Festival beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at Sandstone Ranch, 8309 Perry Park Rd. in Larkspur (look for signs).
The celebration will include:
- Refreshments and food trucks
- Ranger-guided tours of Sandstone Ranch
- Hayrides and pumpkin painting
- Games, including a scavenger hunt
- Educational opportunities for guests of all ages
- Meet and chat with members of the Douglas County Open Space, Parks and Historic Preservation Departments
Plan to bring your Douglas County Schools students, too! Monday, Sept. 22, is a professional development day with no classes being held.
About the Parks, Trails, Historic Resources and Open Space fund
Since 1994, the 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.