Bear Creek Regional Park in Colorado Springs

Bear Creek Regional Park, Colorado Springs

One of the most picturesque parks in town, Bear Creek Regional Park sits in the foothills overlooking the flatlands. It's characterized by a huge expanse of of lawn and lots of mature shade trees. I love the variety of activities here. You could split the whole place into 3 or 4 days worth of activities! There are three play areas, a large dog park, a nature center and miles of trails to explore. The views are outstanding, especially as the seasons change in the fall and spring.

Location:

• The main play area is Bear Creek Terrace located on the southwest side of town. Take 21st Street to Argus Boulevard. Bear Creek Terrace is on the right side of Argus as you drive toward the mountains. You'll pass a smaller play area on the left of Argus near the tennis courts. And Bear Creek East is another play paradise at the corner of 21st and W. Rio Grande. MAP to Bear Creek Regional Park
  

Highlights:

• Bear Creek Terrace has a small plastic dinosaur for climbing, a kid-sized picnic table, and a sandbox equipped with a bulldozer scoop
• There's a great grassy hill perfect for rolling and large stretches of lawn for running
• Baby and big kid swings are down the hill from the main structure near the restrooms
• Bear Creek East has less trees, but more tractors and diggers

Be Aware:

• If you show up first thing in the morning, you may run into maintenance crews which keep this park looking so great
• If one child likes the swings and the other likes the slides - you'll have trouble keeping track of both at the same time

Checklist:

• Parking in dedicated parking lots
• Recycled rubber and bark play surface at Bear Creek Terrace (sand and recycled rubber under the swings)
• Recycled rubber and sand at Bear Creek East
• Restrooms and drinking fountains at Bear Creek Terrace
• Lots of shade from large trees
• A choice of park benches and lush lawn provide comfortable seating for parents
• Perfect for picnics with barbecue grills and trash receptacles at pavilions
• Hiking trails, basketball court, playing fields, volleyball and tennis courts, a community garden, and nature center all part of Regional Park
• Dogs must remain on-leash. However, there is a dog park located on the west side of Rio Grande Street where dogs can go without leash, but must remain under voice control
• El Paso County Parks site
  
• Bear Creek Nature Center has tons of great childrens' programs! Don't miss out.