Town of Pagosa Springs Parks and Scenic Picnic Spots

When the sun is shining, and the skies are bluebird blue, there's no better way to enjoy the beauty of the Town of Pagosa Springs than with a good old-fashioned picnic. Whether you're planning a romantic riverside lunch, a family outing, or a solo break surrounded by nature, Pagosa’s parks offer scenic spaces and fresh mountain air for everyone. From riverside walks to forested trails, here are the best parks in town to spread out a blanket, unpack some local goodies, and soak up the view. 

With so many scenic parks just steps from our award-winning Pagosa Springs Hotel, planning the perfect picnic or afternoon adventure couldn’t be easier. From grilling at River Center Park to hiking Reservoir Hill or relaxing riverside at Cotton Hole Park, these green spaces are part of what makes staying in downtown Pagosa so special.  

River Center Park 

Behind the River Center 

Located on the east side of Pagosa Springs, River Center Park is a peaceful riverside retreat just over 100 feet from our front door. In addition to scenic access to the San Juan River, the park features two serene ponds that offer fishing in warmer months and ice skating when winter conditions are right. Picnic tables, built-in grills for guest use, and tree-shaded benches make it easy to spend the afternoon here relaxing with a packed lunch. 

Reservoir Hill Park 

320 Hot Springs Blvd 

More than just a picnic spot, Reservoir Hill is a full-blown outdoor playground. You can hike, bike, snowshoe, or even play a full 18 holes on the hill’s disc golf course. With panoramic mountain views, secluded picnic spots, and plenty of wildlife, it’s a local favorite for good reason. Pack a lunch and pick a trail. You'll find plenty of shady spots to stop along the way.

Cotton Hole Park 

East end of Hermosa St 

Often called a “pocket park” by locals and visitors, Cotton Hole Park offers a peaceful riverside escape with just the right balance of charm and simplicity. A paved walking path winds through the trees, opening up to shaded picnic areas, benches, and trails that lead to small, sandy beach coves along the San Juan River. It’s a favorite spot for plein air painters who come for the natural light and tranquil river views, often capturing the park’s subtle beauty on canvas. 

Town Park (Pirate Park) 

Corner of Hermosa St. and Hot Springs Blvd 

A cornerstone of downtown, Town Park, often lovingly referred to as Pirate Park, is one of Pagosa Springs’ oldest and most popular green spaces. Straddling the San Juan River, it’s perfectly placed for a picnic with a view. You’ll find shaded picnic tables, grassy open areas for lounging or tossing a Frisbee, and a small playground for younger kids. The park regularly hosts community events and festivals, and its central location makes it easy to grab takeout from nearby restaurants and stroll over for an easygoing afternoon. 

Tennyson Sculpture Garden & Park 

475 Lewis St #104 

For a more artistic picnic experience, check out the Tennyson Sculpture Garden on Lewis Street. Surrounded by outdoor art installations from regional artists, this spot combines culture with comfort. Wander through the garden, admire the sculptures, then relax with lunch on the grass or a bench. 

Yamaguchi Park 

684 S 5th St, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 

At the southern end of the Riverwalk, Yamaguchi Park runs alongside the San Juan River and has over half a mile of paved sidewalks perfect for walking, jogging, or just soaking up the mountain air. With two playgrounds (one for little kids and one for older ones), a skate park, soccer fields, basketball courts, and even a couple of small climbing walls, it’s a favorite destination for active families and anyone who wants to stretch their legs. 

The park features a shaded gazebo, picnic tables, and river access for tubing during the summer months. It’s also a major hub for community events. The Pagosa Springs Summer Concert Series and Comfest bring live music to the park, with bands performing everything from country to jazz in the open air.  

South Pagosa Park 

Corner of South 8th St and Apache St 

If you’re looking for a local park away from the river crowds, South Pagosa Park is a great choice. It offers volleyball courts, horseshoes, and lots of space to toss a Frisbee or enjoy a casual game of catch. It's perfect for families or larger groups wanting to hang out and enjoy the mountain sunshine. 

Centennial Park 

Off S 5th St and Main St behind the Courthouse 

Centennial Park sits right on the San Juan River Walk and offers a peaceful escape in downtown Pagosa Springs. It's home to the Geothermal Greenhouse Partnership (GGP), a local nonprofit dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship, and lifelong education through demonstration and innovation. 

At the heart of Centennial Park are three striking geodesic greenhouse domes, each with its own mission and purpose: 

• The Community Garden Dome focuses on growing fresh produce using sustainable practices and provides space for volunteers and locals to learn hands-on gardening techniques year-round.  

• The Education Dome hosts workshops, school visits, and community programs that teach both kids and adults about food systems, water conservation, and renewable energy.  

• The Innovation Dome explores forward-thinking agriculture and experimental growing methods, from aquaponics to geothermal technology. 

  
  

Surrounding the domes, you’ll find vibrant pollinator gardens, shaded walkways, and a plaza with informational signage that offers insight into the park’s mission and the native species growing in the area. On summer days, you might catch a small event at the terraced amphitheater, which doubles as a serene seating area for visitors and a stage for occasional music and educational talks. 

Cloman Park (Uptown) 

End of Cloman Blvd, off Piedra Rd 

A bit outside of town near the airport, Cloman Park is worth the short drive. With open space, mountain views, and fewer crowds, this park features another 18-hole disc golf course, wide-open trails, and even groomed cross-country ski routes in the winter. It’s a favorite among locals looking to escape and explore. 

Grab Your Picnic Supplies 

Before heading to the park, stop by East Side Market and Food Court at 225 E Pagosa St for fresh eats, artisan snacks, and local flavor. This relaxed, open-air market features vendors offering everything from burritos and burgers to smoothies and global street food. There's even live music on most weekends, giving you the chance to sip, snack, and shop local before finding your perfect picnic spot. 

On Saturday mornings from June to September, the Pagosa Farmers Market at 225 S. Pagosa Blvd, right across the street from the hotel, is another must-visit. You’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, local honey, pasture-raised meats, and baked goods straight from the oven. It’s the ideal place to stock up for a picnic that supports the community and tastes incredible. 

Ready to Picnic in Pagosa?  

From riverside hangouts to art-filled escapes, the parks in the town of Pagosa Springs offer some of the best picnic spots in Colorado. The best part? Many of these scenic parks are within walking distance of your room at RiverWalk Inn, making spontaneous picnics and evening strolls easier than ever.  

Whether you're here with friends, family, or traveling solo, you'll find a scenic park just waiting to be explored. Book your stay, pack a basket, and let nature do the rest. 

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