Looking for ways to fill your week with easy, family-friendly fun without leaving Highlands Ranch? You’re in the right place. With thoughtful parks, rec centers, trails, and programs close to home, you can plan everything from a quick playground stop to a full weekend itinerary. In this guide, you’ll find practical picks for parks, pools, hikes, classes, and community events, plus tips on access, hours, and reservations so you can get out the door faster. Let’s dive in.
Why family time is easy here
Highlands Ranch invests heavily in everyday amenities for residents. The Highlands Ranch Metro District manages public parks, trails, and open space across the community. The Metro District reports 26 parks, more than 70 miles of trails, and about 2,644 acres of open space, which gives you plenty of options close to home. You can confirm those community-wide resources in the Metro District’s overview of parks and open space.
Separately, the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA) runs four major recreation centers and oversees the HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area. Many day-to-day family amenities, like indoor pools, youth classes, camps, and arts programs, happen through HRCA facilities. If you plan to use HRCA centers, review current access and guest policies on the HRCA membership and recreation page.
Parks for every kind of play
Splash and stroll at Civic Green Park
If you want a short, low-stress outing, Civic Green Park in Town Center is a top pick. You’ll find a stroller-friendly layout with a small amphitheater, splash and wading features, and picnic spots. It is also a hub for seasonal events like kid-focused festivals and concerts, which makes it a good place to check when your calendar is open. See current details on the Civic Green Park page before you go.
All-day action at Redstone Park
For active families, Redstone Park offers a bit of everything. The complex includes playgrounds, athletic fields, an aquatic and athletic center, and a fenced concrete skate park, plus a stadium used for tournaments and events. It works well for mixed-age groups since there are options for little ones and teens in the same place. Park and facility details are listed on the Redstone Park page.
Quick neighborhood outings nearby
When you need a simple half-day, neighborhood parks like Paintbrush Park or Dad Clark Park deliver playground time, open fields, and easy walking loops. Families with dogs can add a fenced off-leash stop to the schedule. Rover’s Run at Redstone and Digger’s at Dad Clark are convenient examples, and you can review locations and rules on the Metro District’s dog off-leash facilities page.
Regional pick for events and fields
For bigger fields and community events, Highland Heritage Regional Park is a go-to. Parts of the site are managed by different agencies, so confirm the operator before submitting permits or planning a large group gathering. It is also a good place to keep on your list for seasonal happenings and sports.
Pools, classes, and rainy-day backups
HRCA operates four full-service recreation centers: Northridge, Eastridge, Southridge, and Westridge. Typical family amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, zero-depth children’s areas, lazy river features at certain centers, climbing walls, gymnasiums, preschool and enrichment programs, and seasonal camps. Many rooms and pools are reservable for birthday parties, which makes party planning much simpler.
How to access HRCA centers
- Get HRCA membership cards if you are a resident. Renters can be added under specific procedures, and children under 9 do not need a card but must be supervised by an adult at all times. Guest fees and renewal rules are published by HRCA, so review the HRCA membership and recreation page for the latest details before you visit.
Plan a class or party
- Check current class schedules, open gym times, and swim lesson availability through HRCA. If you are planning a birthday, reserve a party room or pool time early, especially during peak seasons and school breaks. Have your membership information handy when you book.
Trails, nature, and backcountry basics
Everyday trails close to home
You have miles of options for bikes, strollers, and after-dinner walks. The Metro District maintains more than 70 miles of trails and thousands of acres of open space, so you can pick routes based on time and mood. Short loops near neighborhood parks are great for young kids, while longer connections link to regional paths for older cyclists.
Ranger-led learning for kids
If your kids love hands-on learning, keep an eye on the Metro District’s Nature EdVentures. Programs often include guided hikes and skill-building sessions like trail safety, birding, or family astronomy. These are easy, structured ways to explore nature together without planning a full day on your own. Browse upcoming options on the Nature EdVentures page.
Know the HRCA Backcountry rules
The HRCA Backcountry Wilderness Area is an extensive conservation area with trail systems and seasonal programs. Access to some trails may be limited to residents or tied to HRCA programming. Before you go, check the HRCA Backcountry Trails page to confirm who can use which trails and how to join guided activities.
Low-key plans that just work
A toddler-friendly weekly rhythm
- Weekday morning: Head to the Douglas County Libraries Highlands Ranch branch for Baby, Toddler, or Preschool storytime. Schedules vary, so start with a reliable listing like the library’s Highlands Ranch storytime example, then check the calendar for more sessions.
- Midday: Pack snacks and cruise over to Civic Green Park for splash play and a picnic on the lawn. Keep it short to match nap windows.
- Afternoon backup: If the weather turns, pivot to an HRCA rec center for indoor play or open gym time.
Weekend without the car
- Morning: Stroll through Civic Green Park and grab coffee in Town Center. Bring scooters or balance bikes for the paved paths.
- Lunch: Picnic at Dad Clark Park where you can spread out on open fields and use the playground. If you have a dog, the nearby off-leash area is a bonus.
- Afternoon: Finish at Paintbrush Park for a change of scenery or head to Redstone Park for skate park time or open play. If you want a covered table, review the Metro District’s reservations and fee schedule and book a shelter in advance.
Active kid itinerary
- Morning: Swim lessons at an HRCA rec center, then try a short climb on the center’s wall if offered that day.
- Afternoon: Choose a niche activity. West Fork Disc Golf Course is fun for tweens and teens, or hit a skate session at Redstone. Keep snacks and water handy to stretch the day without a full sit-down meal.
Half-day nature trips
- Close-to-home adventure: Plan a day at Chatfield State Park for boating, the swim beach, or mellow trails. It is an easy family picnic outing with a state parks vehicle pass. For dramatic scenery and short, family-friendly loops, Roxborough State Park offers red rock views and simple routes.
Know before you go
- Hours and rules: Metro District parks are generally open 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Dog parks open 7 a.m. to sunset, and skate parks have seasonal hours. Review pet policies, prohibited items, and activity restrictions on the Metro District’s park rules page before you pack up.
- Reservations and permits: Picnic shelters, athletic fields, and courts can be reserved, and some stadium fields require separate permits. Check current rates and how to book on the Metro District’s park reservations and fee schedule.
- Who runs what: In Highlands Ranch, the Metro District, HRCA, and Douglas County each manage different assets. Confirm the operator for your destination, especially if you plan to reserve space or need event permits.
- Stay current: Event calendars, pool schedules, and class offerings shift by season. Verify dates and times on the Metro District or HRCA sites the week you plan to go.
Ready to put more family fun within a few minutes of your front door? If you are thinking about a home that fits your routine near favorite parks, trails, and rec centers, we are here to help you line up the right neighborhood and the right house. Reach out to the team at REBL Home Team to talk next steps or to start your search.
FAQs
What are the best parks for young kids in Highlands Ranch?
- Civic Green Park for splash and short walks, plus neighborhood playgrounds like Paintbrush and Dad Clark for simple, easy outings.
How do I use HRCA recreation centers if I am new to the area?
- Residents get HRCA membership cards, renters can be added under set procedures, children under 9 must be supervised, and guest fees apply, so review the HRCA membership page for current access steps.
Where can I find off-leash dog areas in Highlands Ranch?
- Try Rover’s Run at Redstone and Digger’s at Dad Clark, and confirm rules and hours on the Metro District’s dog off-leash facilities page.
Are HRCA Backcountry trails open to the public?
- Some trails are resident-only or program-based, so check the HRCA Backcountry Trails page before you plan a hike.
What are park hours and how do I reserve a shelter?
- Most parks are open 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., dog parks 7 a.m. to sunset, and you can book picnic shelters and fields through the Metro District’s reservations and fee schedule.
