FCNC Pelicans over pond

Adopt a Park or Trail

Do you love El Paso County parks, trails, and open spaces? Become a steward of the places you enjoy by joining El Paso County Parks’ Adopt-A-Park / Trail Program.

This volunteer program allows individuals, families, businesses, schools, and community organizations to make a lasting difference by helping keep our parks and trails clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone. Whether you’re looking to give back to your community, strengthen your team, or spend more time outdoors, adopting a park or trail is a rewarding way to make an impact.

Why Adopt?

With more than 8,000 acres of parks, trails, open spaces, and recreation facilities to care for, volunteers are essential partners in preserving these treasured community resources.

El Paso County Parks manages:

  • 7 Regional Parks
  • 9 Open Spaces
  • 6 Regional Trails
  • 6 Community Parks
  • 2 Nature Centers
  • 1 Fair & Events Center

Every cleanup helps protect natural resources, improves the visitor experience, and ensures these beautiful places remain enjoyable for future generations.

Who Can Participate?

The program is open to anyone who wants to make a positive difference, including:

  • Businesses
  • Faith-based organizations
  • Individuals and families
  • Neighborhood associations
  • Outdoor recreation groups
  • Youth organizations
  • Schools and school clubs
  • Scout troops
  • Civic and service organizations

No matter the size of your group, there’s an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution.

What’s the Commitment?

Adopting groups make a one-year commitment to care for their assigned park, trail, or open space by conducting at least two cleanup events each month from April through October, with additional cleanups encouraged during the winter months as weather permits.

After six months of active participation, your group will be recognized with an Adopt-A-Park / Trail sign at your adopted location, celebrating your commitment to community stewardship.

What We Provide

El Paso County Parks is committed to supporting the success of every volunteer group by providing:

  • Trash bags for cleanup events
  • Loaned tools, such as rakes and shovels, when available
  • Removal and disposal of collected litter
  • Staff coordination and support
  • Recognition signage at your adopted location

To help us coordinate resources and ensure timely trash pickup, please notify the appropriate County Parks Supervisor of your planned cleanup at least one week in advance (two weeks is preferred).

Following each volunteer day, groups are asked to:

  • Complete an Inspection Checklist documenting volunteer participation and accomplishments.
  • Have each participant sign a Volunteer Waiver annually.
  • Submit completed forms to the Park Supervisor or Community Outreach Specialist by the 30th of each month to help document the community’s volunteer contributions.

Get Started

Interested in adopting a park or trail? Browse our current list of available adoption opportunities and see the businesses, schools, organizations, and community groups that are already making a difference throughout El Paso County Parks.

Adopt-A-Park / Trail Opportunities Spreadsheet

To apply or learn more, please contact our Community Outreach Specialist.

Please Note: Adoption opportunities are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Existing groups receive the first right of refusal to continue caring for their adopted location, and each group must designate a Group Leader to serve as the primary contact with County Parks staff.

Together, we can preserve the parks, trails, and open spaces that make El Paso County such a special place to live, work, and play.

Contact:
Dana Nordstrom
(719)520-6983
Parks@elpasoco.com