The best parks & outdoor spots in Larimer County

Fossil Creek Park wraps around Portner Reservoir with a chill walking loop, the Tar Pits playground starring a giant mammoth, and an interactive splash pad. Then mix in the skate park, dog park, courts and fields, and you’ve got an easy go-to for burning off weekday wiggles.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 29, 2026

Soapstone Prairie Natural Area Entrance Station is your gateway to over 28 square miles of nearly untouched grasslands, miles of trails, and that Cheyenne Rim roll-your-shoulders-back view that connects to Red Mountain Open Space.

From the Cheyenne newsletter, October 20, 2026

Fort Collins City Park is the kind of low-stress, high-reward hangout we all need more of. Big lawns for pickup games, shady spots for unhurried picnics, and just enough space to let your brain go quiet. Swing by after work this week and remember how good outside feels.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 15, 2026

When you just need open space, Spring Canyon Park delivers with big grassy fields, legit athletic spots, a playful one-of-a-kind playground, and a fun mountain biking course. It’s the place to burn energy, meet neighbors, and pretend yard work can wait.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 23, 2026

camping must-haves, fly fishing combos, packable travel bags. Treat yourself to a smoother week, not another errand marathon.

From the Cheyenne newsletter, October 11, 2026

Need a low-key weekend plan that isn't another brewery? The Farm At Lee Martinez Park lets kids feed friendly animals, ogle farm gear, take pony rides, and even try chicken chores, while grownups soak up classic FoCo vibes and maybe book a birthday bash or hayride.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 22, 2026

Twin Silo Park turns local farm history into everyday fun with its twin silo slide, four pickleball courts, a dog park, a pump track, ziplines, and big open fields, perfect for after-work rallies or letting the kids burn off steam.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, September 16, 2026

Just north of Old Town, Poudre River Whitewater Park serves up splashy features for tubers, kayakers and kids at heart, plus stone steps and picnic-friendly spots to hang riverside. Check the flow info, skim the safety tips, then make it your reset this week.

From the Cheyenne newsletter, October 3, 2026

Water's Way Park packs a kid-approved playground, a compact skate park for quick sessions, and an easy loop that links into nearby trails. Perfect for a low-key afternoon when you want fresh air, a few runs, and zero fuss with the whole crew.

From the Fort Collins newsletter, October 6, 2026

With 188 sculptures spread across 10 acres, Benson Sculpture Garden is basically Loveland’s outdoor gallery, perfect for a brain-clearing loop or a slow meander with coffee. Keep an eye out each summer when Sculpture in the Park rolls in, the creative energy multiplies.

From the Loveland newsletter, October 9, 2026