Boulder County Parks & Open Space (BCPOS) faces many challenges, from population growth to land restoration to climate change, and will see changes both for better and worse in the future. To confront what the future may bring, we must not only continue to conserve natural, cultural, and agricultural resources on our open space lands, but also instill the value of these lands to others, especially the next generation of decision makers.
Boulder County Parks & Open Space provides access to everything from mountains to prairie, museums that highlight regional cultural and natural history, and educational programs. With these resources, the department can provide opportunities that engage and educate our community and visitors.
With almost 40,000 acres of BCPOS land open to the public, we have an amazing classroom to educate youth on the value of open space and stewardship of cultural and natural resources. Building a strong and meaningful connection to the land can be a pivotal moment in a child’s relationship with nature. Immersing children into the wonders of the natural world creates formative experiences that shape how they think and act about open space well into the future, as well as the value it plays in their lives currently. As population growth continues to increase along the Front Range, and the impacts of climate change become more visible, we need a knowledgeable and concerned population to tackle current and future environmental decisions and challenges.
Creating fun and enjoyable experiences for children on open space land does not need to be a daunting task. Thankfully, nature allows children to use their own imagination and curiosity without much prompting, and perhaps more successfully than any video game or television show.
Great for Kids
BCPOS provides several kids programs that offer interactive and engaging ways to foster a child’s appreciation of nature.
Nature Detectives Club
For kids under 12 years of age, the Nature Detectives Club gives kids the chance to use their keen investigator skills to complete a mystery guide that highlights the natural surroundings and history of nine local parks. You can pick up mystery guides at each property, or you can print copies from the department’s website. Kids who return completed mystery guides will receive prizes!
Junior Ranger Adventures
The Junior Ranger Adventures program is a fun and exciting way for kids five to 12-years of age, as well as the whole family, to get outdoors and learn new outdoor skills. An account can be created through the county website to track your progress and earn badges and prizes.
Museums
The department’s museums are an excellent way to step back into time and learn what life was like in Boulder County in the past. Boulder County manages three museums where you will learn about the history of agriculture, or get a glimpse into the world of hard rock mining.
Visit Every Property
Still in search of exciting ways for your child to interact with nature? Visit every open space property in Boulder County! By searching on Boulder County’s website or picking up A Guide to Your County Parks brochure you can find locations for each of the parks, discover what each property has to offer, and plan your adventure. Bring along binoculars, if you have them, and a sense of adventure to make your experiences enjoyable and create lasting memories for the entire family.