Parks and Recreation Newsletter - July 2026
Make the Most of Summer with Durango Parks & Recreation
Summer is in full swing, and July is packed with opportunities to play, explore, learn, and stay active with Durango Parks & Recreation. From youth camps and swim lessons to holiday celebrations, BMX racing, and family-friendly recreation, there's something happening nearly every week of the month.
View our full list of sports and programs in the Enrichment Guide at: DurangoCO.gov/EnrichmentGuide
Click here to register now for an open sport or program.
Fourth of July Freedom 5K Walk, Run or Stroll - Saturday, July 4, 8:15 AM Registration, 9 AM Race
Celebrate Independence Day on the move! 🇺🇸 Lace up for the Fourth of July Freedom 5K Walk, Run or Stroll. Whether you're racing for a personal best or enjoying a leisurely stroll with family and friends, everyone is welcome to take part in this free community event along the scenic Animas River Trail. Check-in and registration are from 8:15–8:45 AM with the 5K beginning at 9:00 AM. at Rotary Park. This year's route will head south towards Whitewater Park due to Animas River Trail construction. Route is a 5K+ at 3.4 miles total.
Parks and Recreation Month Celebration
July is Parks and Recreation Month, and you're invited to celebrate with us on Friday, July 17, from 4–6 p.m. at the Durango Community Recreation Center lawn. Enjoy a free afternoon of games, giveaways, bounce houses, live music, face painting, lawn games, community partners, and Recreation Center admission at Grand Opening Day prices. The celebration continues with free roller skating at Chapman Hill from 6–9 p.m.
Learn more: DurangoCO.gov/1827/Parks-and-Recreation-Month
Gametime Summer Programs & Outdoor Adventure Camp
Keep kids active all summer long with Gametime Summer Programs for ages 4–5, 6–7, and 8–15. Each day is filled with swimming, arts and crafts, games, climbing wall activities, field trips, and outdoor fun that keeps participants engaged while school is out.
For young explorers, Outdoor Adventure Camp (OAC) offers an unforgettable experience hiking local trails, exploring nature, playing games, and discovering the outdoors through hands-on adventure.
Register for Gametime, OAC, and other youth programs here.
Swim Lessons, Gymnastics & Youth Archery
Build confidence while learning new skills this summer. Swim Lessons return with multiple July sessions for swimmers of all ability levels, while Gymnastics classes help participants improve strength, coordination, and flexibility in a fun, encouraging environment.
Beginning July 6, Youth Archery with Athletes Global teaches the fundamentals of archery while building focus, confidence, and coordination through experienced instruction.
View class offerings and register at: DurangoCO.gov/Register4Rec.
BMX Summer Camps & Friday Night Racing
Cundiff Park BMX Track is busy all month with BMX Summer Camps for riders ages 4–7 and ages 8+. Whether you're trying BMX for the first time or looking to sharpen your racing skills, camps provide instruction, games, and plenty of time on the track.
The action continues every Friday evening with USA BMX-sanctioned Race Nights. Riders of all ages and abilities are invited to race, while family and friends can enjoy one of Durango's favorite weekly summer events.
Register for BMX Camps and Friday Night Races at DurangoCO.gov/Register4Rec.
Learn more about racing and BMX programs at: DurangoBMX.org
Family & Adult Roller Skating at Chapman Hill
Beat the summer heat with roller skating at Chapman Hill! Family Roller Skating and Adult Roller Skating sessions are offered throughout July, making it a fun way to stay active with friends and family.
View the full roller skating schedule and themed events on the Chapman Hill Rink Events Calendar: DurangoCO.gov/1647/Chapman-Hill-Rink-Events-Calendar
Summer Birthday Parties with Parks and Recreation
Make this summer one to celebrate. Durango Parks & Recreation offers fun, easy birthday party options for every kind of kid—make a splash with a swim party at the Durango Community Recreation Center, roll into fun at Chapman Hill’s roller skating rink or flip into action at Durango Gymnastics. Prefer the outdoors? Reserve a park space for your celebration by calling 970-375-7321. Spots fill fast, so plan ahead.
4 Corners Classic Adult Soccer Tournament
Finish the month with one of the area's premier adult sporting events. The 4 Corners Classic Adult Soccer Tournament returns July 25–26, bringing teams together for a weekend of competitive play at Smith Sports Complex.
Register for the tournament at: https://DurangoGov.org/Register4Rec
Open Space and Trails
Planning your next outing is easier than ever with the City's new interactive Trail Map & Finder. Search trails, view amenities, find trailheads, and plan your next adventure here: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/b6b2053a66b1409795c30987421c4350/page/2D
Tag us on Social Media!
📸 We want to see where the trails take you!**Share your adventures with us on social media and tag your photos—your journey might inspire someone else to hit the trail.
Pets should remain on leash throughout City of Durango and please dispose of any pet waste properly. The only area that dogs are allowed off leash is at the Dog Park located at the base of Smelter Mountain. Please remember that animals are not permitted at Oxbow Preserve nor at Greenmount Cemetery.
Important Dates and Events in July
Keep in mind these important dates for registration and events:
July 1–31 — Gametime Childcare (Ages 4–15)
July 2 — Stargazing Night Sky at Lake Nighthorse
July 4, 9 AM Start — Freedom 5K Run, Walk & Stroll
July 6 — Youth Archery with Athletes Global begins
July 6–31 — BMX Summer Camp (Ages 8+)
July 6 – August 6 — Swim Lessons
July 6–30 — July Gymnastics
July 7–30 — BMX Junior Camp (Ages 4–7)
July 10 — First Friday Open Gyms at Durango Gymnastics (Elementary & Middle School-age kids)
July 10, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM — Free Teddy Bear Picnic at the Durango Community Recreation Center
July 12** — New Rider BMX Clinic
July 16 — Stargazing Night Sky at Lake Nighthorse
July 17, 4-6 PM** — Parks and Recreation Month Celebration at the Durango Community Recreation Center - Free Family Fun!
July 25–26 — 4 Corners Classic Adult Soccer Tournament
Durango BMX Races at Cundiff Park Track
Friday evenings 5-6 PM registration, racing following
Adult Roller Skating at Chapman Hill Rink
Tuesday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Saturday nights 8:15 - 9:45 PM
Preschool Open Gym at Durango Gymnastics
Friday mornings 10-11 AM registration, racing following
Adult Open Gym at Durango Gymnastics
Wednesday evenings 7:30 - 9 PM