County Facts
Douglas County was formed in 1861 by the Colorado Territorial Session Laws. Named after U.S. Senator Stephen A. Douglas, the county has beautiful plains, foothills and mountains. The region offers a high quality of life, a robust business environment and a government that is promptly responsive to their residents’ needs.
Geography
Douglas County spans approximately 843 square miles. Ninety-six of those miles are protected by the county’s Open Space Program. Castlewood Canyon State Park, the Chatfield State Recreation Area, the Pike National Forest and the Roxborough State Park are housed on more than 146,000 acres of land in the county. The municipalities of Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Castle Pines, Larkspur, Lone Tree and Parker are located within the county’s boundaries.
Economy
In 2009, Money Magazine ranked Douglas County 5th in the U.S. for “Job Growth Over the Last Eight Years” In 2004, the American City Business Journals (ACBJ) ranked Douglas County 4th in the nation for “Quality of Life”. The county’s workforce includes highly skilled and educated workers. The county has access to a transportation system complete with light rail transit and a newly expanded freeway system. The county has an abundance of power and water, an excellent public education system and one of the lowest tax rates in the country.
Recreation
One attraction that will attract both residents and tourists is the annual Douglas County Fair which is held at the County Fairground and Events Center. Located in Castle Rock, the center provides recreational and entertainment accommodations and facilities for youth and business activities. The area also has open space, parks and trails for residents and tourists who love the outdoors.
