Fossil Creek Park

A Journey Back in Time

Fossil Creek Park brings Colorado's ancient history to life with its distinctive prehistoric theme. Kids absolutely love the main playground area where they can clamber all over a massive mammoth structure that's as fun as it is educational. Scattered throughout the play areas, you can find various dinosaur structures that spark imagination and offer a playful glimpse into our planet's distant past.

The prehistoric vibe doesn't stop at the playground - it extends throughout the entire park. Those Paleo structures you'll spot during your visit? They're meant for channeling your inner caveperson while enjoying some fresh Colorado air.

Get Your Game On

Whether you're a sports enthusiast or just looking to play casually, the park offers several options. There are well-maintained fields for baseball and soccer, plus five tennis courts with well-maintained surfaces. Shooting hoops more your thing? The basketball courts are waiting for your next game.

Skateboarders will appreciate the urban-style skate park where you can practice tricks and stunts. For hockey fans, there's an inline hockey rink that cleverly doubles as a space for floor hockey and soccer when needed. And if you're feeling old-school, why not try your hand at the horseshoe pits?

Nature's Playground

Need to slow down and breathe? The walking and running paths wind around several small lakes and wetlands, excellent for a peaceful stroll or an invigorating jog. These natural areas function as a bird sanctuary where, depending on when you visit, you might catch sight of ring-neck ducks, redhead diving ducks, Canadian geese, gulls, or red-winged blackbirds going about their day.

Don't miss the large grassy knoll that offers stunning views of Long's Peak. It's an ideal spot for taking in the scenery or having a quiet moment of reflection. And when winter blankets Fort Collins in snow, this hill transforms into a popular sledding spot where laughter and the swoosh of sleds fill the air.

Gathering Spaces

Got a family reunion or birthday coming up? The park features two large pavilions available for reservation. These structures, beautifully designed to represent the Greek Phoenix (symbolizing life and renewal), provide ample space for gatherings. For smaller get-togethers, you'll come across several additional picnic areas - both covered and uncovered - within the grounds.

On hot summer days, the interactive splash pad is particularly busy. With refreshing waterfalls and grassy areas nearby well-suited for picnicking, it's an ideal spot to cool off and relax. Dog owners, you haven't been forgotten - there's a dedicated off-leash dog park with separate sections for large dogs and small or shy pups, complete with water bowls, benches, and plenty of room for four-legged friends to run and play.

Easy to Navigate

The park is handicap accessible with paved trails that stretch approximately one mile around the perimeter and half a mile around the lake. If you prefer walking on natural surfaces, you'll discover fine rock and red clay trails closer to the lake.

Clean restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park. The main facilities are near the dog park and playground area, with additional restrooms by the lake (though keep in mind these may close during certain seasons).

Conservation at Heart

Since opening in 2003, this 100-acre public park has been carefully designed to protect and enhance the wetlands of Fossil Creek as it flows through the area. If you're patient and observant, you might spot turtles sunning themselves near the water's edge.

Fossil Creek Park balances recreation with conservation. It's a place where people can play and relax while natural habitats remain protected.