We love our corner of the state and we think you will too. We knew it would help if you had one more reason to stick around and experience our unique community nestled in the tracks of the dinosaurs. We neighbor the beautiful canyon lands of the Dinosaur National Monument in our big back yard.
Visit one of the most gorgeously rugged places in the world when you plan your stay in Dinosaur Colorado. Within minutes of the Colorado entrance to Dinosaur National Monument, spectacular views from Blue Mountain, miles and miles of places to go in your OHV’s, there’s something for everyone!
Originally established in 1947 as the Town of Artesia, Dinosaur changed its name in 1966 due to the popularity of Dinosaur National Monument. There are many impressive landscapes in Dinosaur National Monument including “The Little Grand Canyon,” “Echo Park” and “The Gates of Lodore.” If stargazing within the International Dark Sky Park, whitewater rafting, hiking, and camping are some of your favorite past times, Dinosaur is for you.
Colorado’s Great Northwest is a sportsman’s paradise and is home to the 2nd largest elk population, 1st largest deer population and 1st largest pronghorn population in the state. Dinosaurs are long gone in this area, but sportsman, tourists, and locals enjoy spotting and photographing astounding bull elk and other wildlife.
Exploring the streets of Brontosaurus Boulevard and Stegosaurus Freeway is a treat! Beautification efforts in 2022 included two murals, flowerpots, banners and town signage. Bedrock Depot is a must for homemade ice-cream and deli sandwiches on hot summer afternoons. Beer, burgers, and conversation can be found at Highway Bar and Grill. The T-Rex Bedrock Inn and Stoneage Stay Casitas are being remodeled by new owners. Longs Hideout RV Park is available for camping needs for short and long stays. When looking to make Dinosaur your home or purchase land look to Elk Mountain Reality. Other indulgences can be found at any of the four dispensaries and at Christie’s Liquor.
In April the local Fire department hosted its Easter community event with a delicious pancake breakfast in the park and Easter egg hunt. Local police disguised as dinosaurs where seen chasing children in the park. Our Artesia Fire Department looks forward to bingo, and other events at the firehouse later this year.
Dinosaurs and people alike enjoyed the 1st annual Dinosaur Stone Age Stampede in September 2022. We had a vision to bring the town of Dinosaur together to have a good time, and I would say we accomplished our goal, and then some. What made this event special was seeing the whole community, and many visitors from nearby towns and states come together not only to celebrate, but to pitch in anywhere where help was needed. There was a little something for everyone to enjoy, whether it was finding a new trinket at a craft booth, noshing on some tasty barbecue or dancing the night away under the stars during the live music. Mayor Richard Blakley commented, “This is a dream come true for me.” Dinosaur Stone Age Stampede will be back September 8th & 9th 2023 with a new family adventure, HOV poker run!
Travel and Leisure has named Dinosaur as a top 10 vacation Destination. Dinosaur is a small community with big heart. No matter what you are searching for … lotto… adventure…or amazing views, it truly is one of God's masterpieces.
