Friends of Castlewood Canyon State Park

$4,785 raised by 22 donors

48% complete

$10,000 Goal

Castlewood Canyon: A Hidden Gem Worth Protecting

Celebrating 30 Years of Stewardship | 1997–2027

Tucked into the prairie southeast of Denver, Castlewood Canyon State Park is a remarkable natural treasure. Its dramatic rock formations, winding trails, peaceful creek, and diverse wildlife offer visitors an unforgettable connection to Colorado's natural beauty and rich history.

In 2027, Friends of Castlewood Canyon State Park celebrates 30 years of protecting, preserving, and enhancing this extraordinary landscape. Since 1997, Friends has supported conservation, education, park improvements, and community engagement, helping ensure the canyon remains a place of discovery and inspiration.

Help Protect the Next 30 Years

Our 30th anniversary is more than a celebration of the past—it's a call to invest in the canyon's future. Your gift today will help protect wildlife habitats, preserve trails, expand educational opportunities, and support vital park improvements.

For 30 years, dedicated supporters have made a lasting difference. Now it's your turn to help carry that legacy forward.

Make a 30th Anniversary Gift. Protect What You Love. Preserve What Comes Next.

For the Canyon.  For What Comes Next.

Giving Activity

Mission

Friends of Castlewood Canyon State Park is a non-profit corporation that serves the Park and its

visitors by promoting, supporting, and encouraging interpretative and educational programs,

projects, and activities that will enhance, preserve, and foster stewardship of the natural and cultural

heritage features of the park.

Background Statement

Celebrating 30 Years of Stewardship | 1997–2027

Founded in 1997, Friends of Castlewood Canyon State Park has spent three decades protecting the canyon’s natural beauty, wildlife, and historic heritage. Through education, habitat restoration, trail improvements, preservation projects, and fundraising, Friends helps ensure this remarkable landscape remains protected for future generations.

30 Years of Accomplishments

• National Recognition: Castlewood Canyon is one of only 12 parks nationwide to earn the Leave No Trace Gold Standard Site designation.

• Natural Area Protection: Recognized as one of Colorado’s select state parks designated as a Natural Area.

• Over $305,000 Contributed: Since 1998, Friends has supported vital park improvements, educational programs, and conservation projects.

• Lasting Improvements: Key projects include the Wildcat Canyon Bridge, East Canyon Trail, Visitor Center enhancements, interpretive signage, Native Garden, and Wonders of Castlewood educational program.

• Land Preservation: Supported the Lucas Homestead–Metzler Acquisition and East Canyon Preservation purchase to protect important natural landscapes.

Protecting the Next 30 Years

As we look forward to our 30th anniversary in 2027, the Friends of Castlewood Canyon is launching a capital campaign to build a Nature Education Center at Canyon Point to serve our 200,000+ annual visitors.

Your donation directly funds:

• Conservation: Preserving unique ecosystems and wildlife.

• Education: Expanding programs for schools and visitors.

• Preservation: Safeguarding the historic canyon.

• Improvements: Enhancing trails and park facilities.

Help us protect the park for generations. Donate today to leave your legacy and protect the next 30!

For the Canyon. For What Comes Next.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Friends of Castlewood Canyon State Park

Year Established

1997

Tax id (EIN)

84-1533425

Category

Environment, Recreation & Sports, Arts, Culture & Humanities, Public & Societal Benefit

Organization Size

Small Organization

Address

2989 S STATE HIGHWAY 83
FRANKTOWN, CO 80116

Service areas

Douglas County, CO, US

El Paso County, CO, US

Denver, CO, US

Arapahoe County, CO, US

Elbert, CO, US, 80106