Crawford State Park
From the desk of Scott Rist, Park Manager
The Colorado Parks Foundation's grants have had a positive impact on Crawford State Park over the last seven years. These grants have facilitated the purchase of various equipment, enabling the park to offer a range of outdoor recreational activities to its visitors.
The grants made it possible to achieve several goals of the park. These goals include:
Bikes: The grants enabled the purchase of bikes, providing an opportunity for visitors who don't have their own bikes to enjoy cycling. This initiative has been particularly beneficial for returning families who regularly utilize the bikes provided by the park.
Ice Fishing Equipment: The grants allowed the park to purchase ice fishing equipment, including rods, lures, four depth finders, and four ice augers. This equipment has allowed visitors to try ice fishing without needing to invest in their own gear. Furthermore, the park has utilized the equipment to teach both children and adults how to ice fish, leading to the involvement of over 500 individuals who otherwise may not have had the opportunity to experience ice fishing.
Cross Country Skiing Equipment and Grooming: With the purchased cross-country skiing equipment, including skis and grooming tools, the park has been able to maintain two miles of groomed trails. These trials are utilized by visitors and school groups alike, providing them with a well-prepared surface for skiing. Additionally, park rangers have utilized the ski equipment to lead over 2000 school children on ski trips, fostering a connection between the youth and the outdoors.
Overall, these grants have significantly enhanced the recreational opportunities available at Crawford State Park, making outdoor activities such as biking, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing more accessible to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The park's efforts in providing equipment and educational opportunities have undoubtedly contributed to enriching the outdoor experiences of its visitors fostering a deeper appreciation for nature.