Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grants
Forecasted
Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grants support communities through parkland acquisition and recreation facility development or renovation to expand public access, especially where parks are lacking.
Funder: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Due Dates (Anticipated): November 2027 (State submission to NPS) | November 2030 (Federal notice closing)
Funding Amounts: $300,000–$15 million per award; 1:1 non-federal match; completion within three years of award
Summary: Supports parkland acquisition and outdoor recreation facility development or renovation to expand public recreation access in qualifying communities.
Key Information: The entire assisted park or site must remain maintained and accessible for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program is a nationally competitive federal grant program administered by the National Park Service (NPS), with Colorado applications coordinated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW). Part of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) State and Local Assistance Program, it funds land and water acquisition for parks and public outdoor recreation, development of new facilities, and renovation of existing facilities in qualifying areas.
The program prioritizes improved recreation access, particularly for low-income communities with inadequate park access, alongside community needs, partnerships, conservation, and project feasibility. Supported priorities include park safety, Native American gathering spaces, hunter education facilities, youth engagement, volunteerism, and job training. Colorado also emphasizes alignment with its Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan.
