Skip to main content

Natural Areas Facilities and Reservations#

Primrose Studio#

Primrose Studio exterior

Primrose Studio is a secluded lakefront event venue at Reservoir Ridge Natural Area. It is perfect for corporate meetings, yoga and art classes, special events and more.

Learn More and Reserve

Gateway Natural Area Shelters and Turf Area#

Shelters at gateway natural area

Gateway Natural Area is only 15 miles from Fort Collins in the Cache La Poudre Canyon. You'll find hiking trails, a designated launch area for kayaks and canoes, fishing, picnic tables with grills, and informational kiosks. Two picnic shelters are available on a first-come, first-served basis; we no longer accept reservations. Groups over 15 people need a permit. The parking fee at Gateway is $8, annual passes are available.

Learn More

Natural Areas Exhibit at Fort Collins Museum of Discovery#

The Natural Areas Department partnered with the Fort Collins Museum of Discovery  and the US Fish and Wildlife Service to create a free Natural Areas Visitor Center in the lobby of the museum.

It includes check a shortgrass prairie diorama with live endangered black-footed ferrets, an interactive map, and video stories from local citizens about why they love natural areas. You can play with the ripple tank, pick up a map, get a brochure, or enjoy the comfortable couch with an outdoor view. 

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Learn More#

Map Kiosk
Biofacts table
Shortgrass prairie exhibit
Water Table
rabbit inside prairie ecosystem exhibit