Brighton, Colorado is a city in Adams and Weld Counties. The town, which was named for the city of Brighton Beach, NY, was founded in the 1870s. Originally, Brighton was formed as a railroad depot and farming community, and at that time, it was called Hughes Station. The city was officially incorporated in 1887, and in 1904, it became the county seat of Adams County. Brighton continued to grow steadily throughout the 20th century, its population bolstered by the addition of a rail line in the area.
As of 2022, the population of Brighton is roughly 42,000. While visiting Brighton, you'll have quite a few opportunities for unique experiences. For example, you could embark on an adventure in a hot air balloon via Fair Winds. You could also take the whole family for an exciting day at Brighton Oasis Family Aquatic Park or check out the many fascinating animals at the Wild Animal Sanctuary. If you're in the mood for something a little different, you could head to Colorado Clays Shooting Park.
If you want to learn about the interesting history of the Brighton area, take a few hours to explore the Adams County Historical Museum. If the weather's nice, another unique option is to visit Berry Patch Farms to pick a variety of delicious fruits and vegetables. Alternatively, you could enjoy the sunshine by hiking, biking, or horseback riding along the trails at Barr Lake State Park. You may also want to play a few holes at Buffalo Run Golf Course or enjoy some fishing at Adams County Regional Park & Fairgrounds. When you're ready for some grub, a couple of top-notch dining options around Brighton are La Estrellita Restaurant and Big Choice Brewing and Pizza.
Campgrounds Near Brighton, Colorado
The Prospect RV Park is one of many quality camping options in the greater Brighton area. The peaceful campground has 70 full-hookup RV campsites available for $34 to $36.50 per night. Guests at the park have convenient access to all the amenities and attractions of nearby Denver. There are quite a few on-site amenities as well, including laundry facilities and a dog-walking area.
You could also go with the Clear Creek RV Park, which features full-hookup RV campsites and is located within walking distance of historic downtown Golden, Colorado. The park is known for its quiet, rustic atmosphere, and it's surrounded by beautiful scenery as well. Additionally, pets are permitted, and during your stay, you'll have access to clean shower facilities.
Another lovely campground to consider is the Denver Meadows RV Park. The campground has over 200 RV campsites available for between $49 and $59 per night and offers a cozy setting. You can rent a full-hookup campsite, and while you're there, you can make use of the laundry facilities, clean restrooms, pool, spa, and other great amenities.
State Parks Near Brighton, Colorado
Cherry Creek State Park is located in the Denver area and is home to a peaceful 880-acre reservoir. Fans of water-based recreation can use the placid lake for swimming, boating, and fishing, and on its shores, there are also several miles of trails perfect for hiking and biking. If you enjoy birdwatching, you should be on the lookout for cool avian species like bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and a variety of beautiful songbirds. If you visit the park during winter, you'll find an excellent setting for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Chatfield State Park is revered as one of the most picturesque natural havens in Colorado, featuring breathtaking vistas, rolling plains, and the tranquil waters of the Chatfield Reservoir. The 3,895-acre park offers exceptional views of the nearby Rocky Mountains and features 26 miles of scenic multi-use trails. When you're in the mood to have some fun on the water, you can head to the on-site reservoir for activities like fishing, kayaking, sailing, and waterskiing. Wildlife enthusiasts visiting the area should watch for prairie dogs, mule deer, bald eagles, and other unique creatures.
Situated between Loveland and Greeley, Colorado, Boyd Lake State Park comprises roughly 2,000 acres and is an excellent destination for outdoor recreation. The park's main feature is its namesake lake, where visitors frequently enjoy activities like swimming, boating, waterskiing, and fishing. When the weather gets cold enough, the lake can even be used for ice skating. For those who wish to stay on dry land, the lake is surrounded by several great hiking and biking trails.
National Sites Near Brighton, Colorado
The Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is a national site most known for its incredible exhibits of giant petrified redwoods. In addition to the petrified redwoods, the stunning fossil beds feature approximately 1,700 other species dating back to prehistoric times. This includes 14-foot-wide sequoia trees and a wide variety of other fossilized plants and insects. At the visitor's center, you can watch an orientation video and participate in a fossil lab. While you're there, make sure to explore the Petrified Forest Loop and the Ponderosa Loop.
Covering roughly 3,000 acres, the Scotts Bluff National Monument is another excellent destination for history buffs. The area is home to Scotts Bluff, which towers 800 feet above the North Platte River and is a famous landmark in the region. At the monument's on-site visitor's center, you can browse a variety of exhibits and learn about the human, geological, and paleontological history of the area. There's also a peaceful trail at the site that you can navigate on foot or bike while taking in the scenic landscapes.
If you're interested in learning about the history of Native Americans and buffalo trappers during the mid-19th century, take some time to explore Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site. Although the fort was destroyed and abandoned in 1849, it was reconstructed as accurately as possible in the mid-20th century. Since the 1960s, the important historical site has been open to public exploration. While visiting the fort, you can get a close look at the impressive grand Pueblo-style architecture and watch a short documentary about the history of the site.
National Forests Near Brighton, Colorado
San Isabel National Forest, which encompasses over 1.1 million acres in central Colorado, is known for its majestic beauty, towering mountains, and lush woodlands. The forest is home to many of Colorado's most famous peaks, including Pikes Peak. There are also many babbling mountain streams, some of which offer excellent opportunities for fly fishing. Take a hike along great trails such as the Mount Princeton Trail and the Turquoise Lake Trail.
Pike National Forest is another beautiful nature area located in central Colorado. The forest stretches across the mighty Rocky Mountains and comprises millions of acres of serene wilderness. Pike National Forest is home to 23 mountains taller than 14,000 feet. Enjoy hiking, biking, and fishing during your visit. During the winter, the forest is also a nice spot for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing.
Located near the city of Fort Collins, Colorado, Roosevelt National Forest covers approximately 815,000 acres and was named in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt. The natural area is home to a whopping 183 mountains, including notable peaks like North Arapahoe Peak and South Bald Mountain. Many of the forest's hiking trails are rugged and challenging, but if you're a skilled hiker, they're definitely worth exploring.
