NEW: Summer Camp Permit Program

A summer camp is a place where kids can learn and grow through fun, safe, and educational outdoor activities during the summer. These camps are usually approved by the State of Colorado. Denver Parks and Recreation offers permits on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing people to use parks for running summer camps for youth. 

Apply April 14 - June 2:
Permit applications for 2025 summer camps will be accepted only from 8:00 a.m. on April 14 until June 2 at 4:00 p.m. 

Summer Camp Season:
The summer camp season is Monday through Friday from June 2 until August 15, 2025.

2025 Park Permit Application

How to Apply

Step 1.Review Permit Resources and Requirements:

Step 2.Submit Your Application:

  • Download an Application(PDF, 729KB)
  • Applications will only be accepted: April 14 – June 2
  • Applications must be submitted no later than 30 days prior to the first day of your camp
  • Please indicate “Summer Camp” on your application
  • Ensure proper signature is on your application
  • Applicants are encouraged to list multiple camp locations on their application if flexible. Availability will be checked in the order listed, with the first available location being offered

Step 3.Wait for Communication:

  • Please allow one (1) business day for the Parks Permit Office to confirm receipt of your application
  • Within seven (7) business days of receiving your application, you will be sent an email with a preliminary permit which serves as an invoice and a list of permit requirements

 

 

Special Notes

  • Only one (1) park will be approved per permit holder for the Summer Camp season. Multiple approvals per permit holder are strictly prohibited. 
  • Camps cannot exceed 60 participants per day
  • Camps may not exceed the number of participants per day authorized on the permit
  • With an approved permit, your camp has exclusive access to the location/park listed on the permit
  • Your camp may utilize other areas of the park as part of the day, but may not interfere with any other permits or casual park users
  • Permit holders must comply with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to childcare licensing requirements as well as DPR Park Rules
  • Restroom access will vary by park. Some parks won’t have restrooms available, and the permit holder will have to secure portable toilets. The cost of portable toilets is the responsibility of the permit holder. The vendor contract will need to be provided as part of the permit approval process
  • Permit holders shall establish a written trash plan that ensures all camp generated trash is captured and placed in appropriate trash receptacles. This will need to be provided as part of the permit approval process
  • Permit holders must establish a written inclement weather plan that must be provided to DPR on demand
  • Onsite overnight storage is not available
  • Parking will be coordinated during the permit approval process

Individual Applicants

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Individual applicants may have someone else submit their application, but the name of the individual applicant under which the permit will be issued must be listed and have signed the application

Entity/Organization Applications

  • Must have an identified Representative Authorized Agent). Organizers who hire third-party event managers for their activity can designate them as the day-of contact, or Authorized Agent as noted on the application
  • The Authorized Agent must be at least 18 years old and an employee, board member, or authorized with a letter on organization letterhead, signed by an authorized employee or board member (do not authorize yourself with this letter)
  • A new Authorized Agent must provide an authorization letter at the time of application on the organization’s letterhead
  • An Authorized Agent may have someone else submit the application, but the name of the organization under which the permit will be issued must be listed as the applicant and signed by the Authorized Agent
  • IMPORTANT: The Authorized Agent will be the ONLY person receiving communication from the Parks Permit Office until the organization provides a letter stating a change in the representative
  • If the organization is a nonprofit, 501c3 verification must be submitted with the application: IRS Determination Letter or Letter of Registration/Certificate of Good Standing from the Colorado Secretary of State