Natural Areas The Natural Areas Program’s mission is to preserve some of our natural history so that future generations and we can understand and experience our native heritage.   Unlike traditional developed parks, the natural area sites are guided, developed and sustained more by natural processes and not  by mans’ horticultural activities.   The Natural Areas Program is a component of Denver Parks and Recreation Natural Resources Division and manages over 4,000 acres of natural open space within Denver’s urban boundaries.

Five divisions of the Natural Areas Program Planning, Design and Designation Our main goal is to design for human interface, to protect native plants and wildlife communities, as well as to facilitate the establishment of natural areas and minimize human impact.  Read more Land Restoration and Management The goals are to restore and protect natural ecosystems where they still exist and to create and nurture natural ecological processes in open space areas with the potential of becoming naturalized sustainable landscapes.  Read more Noxious and Problem Weed Management  We manage noxious weeds and restore native plants to improve wildlife habitat and comply with the State's noxious weed mandate.  Read more Wildlife Management and Protection Our goals are to improve wildlife habitat, provide opportunities for citizens to experience wildlife, and to create win-win solutions between people and animals: Read more Education and Outreach Our goal is to educate citizens about Denver’s natural areas, native plants, and wildlife.  Read more

Upcoming Events Wild About Denver Come explore nature in Denver parks!