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Douglas County Parks Series: Philip S. Miller Park

By Kari Ploysa, Macaroni Kid Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock-Lone Tree Administrative & Marketing Assistant August 4, 2021

Philip S. Miller Park
1375 W. Plum Creek Pkwy., Castle Rock
Hours: 5:00 AM–11:00 PM

It has been a while since the family has visited Philip S. Miller Park. The boys had almost forgotten what it was like, so I decided that a trip back was just what we needed. 







We decided to stop by the Plaza first. The Plaza houses picnic pavilions, restrooms, a splash pad (weather permitting), an outdoor fireplace, play features, and landscaping. Surprisingly, the boys didn't want to splash today. 

Instead, my oldest ran to the rope merry-go-round. He's a monkey and will swing or climb on anything. Next, we saw a large rock with footholds to climb up; both children decided to get in on the fun here. I'm "King of the Mountain!" they cried as they rose to the top. 










We drove up the hill to enjoy the gorgeous view of the hills and park from the Amphitheater. It is home to a variety of events during the summer, such as free and paid concerts, fitness in the park, and other community events.

Next to the amphitheater is the Millhouse, a rentable venue featuring a stunning pond and water feature, accessible concrete trails, additional parking, and scenic landscaping.







It was time to find somewhere that the boys could climb and run. We drove to the lower area of the park where the Challenge Hill mini incline is. Don't let the name fool you; the incline isn't so mini — it's 200 steps to the top!

My youngest climbed just over 100 steps and then told me he was done. We waited off to the side while my oldest ran excitedly to the top. Rising 178 feet in elevation, it's a lot tougher than it appears, but the views at the top are hard to beat.




The next thing we saw was the new bright yellow FitGround, completed in late 2019. The website says it's for ages 13 and up, but it was crawling with children of all ages trying to overcome the obstacles. 







The 2.5-acre Adventure Playground covers an entire hill, and nothing ever seems too crowded. There is a domed rope climbing playset, a 40-foot-long slide that runs down the side of the hill, a playset with slides, a sand area, swings, many different teeter-totters, rope swings, and a saucer swing. 







In addition to the free-play areas and workout areas, there are paid attractions, including a Sky Trek giant rope course, zip-lining, and an Adventure Tower complete with bungee jumping, rock climbing, and more. There is also a multi-use field, the Miller Activity Center, and an 8-mile interconnected trail system.

Make sure to schedule a whole day to be at this 300-acre park. You and your children won't run out of things to do!










FEATURES

SEATING

  • Shelters
  • Plaza Pavilions (Reservable)
  • Picnic tables
  • Benches
  • Boulders
  • Porch swing

AMENITIES

  • Electrical outlets
  • Outdoor fireplace
  • Gas fire pits
  • Public restrooms (near the splash pad)
  • Portable toilets (near the playground)
  • Bike racks
  • ADA-accessible, stroller-friendly paths

NEARBY SWEETS AND TREATS
Head down the street to Yolanda's Tacos for the best beef barbacoa nachos around. Then, check out Sugar Spoon Candies and introduce your children to all the candy from your childhood.

Get outside and play more! Visit the Parks and Playgrounds section of our directory to learn about other Douglas County parks.


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