Buckskin Joe

Buckskin Joe was a Western theme park in Fremont County featuring roughly thirty authentic buildings from the Colorado frontier era. The park offered gunfight shows, themed entertainment, and a full-service saloon with restaurant for visitors.

The park was established in 1957 when a filmmaker collected and reassembled old buildings from central Colorado locations to create the site. Operations ended in 2010 when a businessman purchased the property and its associated scenic railway.

The site served as a filming location for twenty-one movies including Cat Ballou, The Cowboys, and The Sacketts from 1957 to 2010. Hollywood productions made the Western town a recognized backdrop for cinema.

The park was located in a mountainous region with variable weather, so sturdy shoes and layered clothing were essential for visiting. Morning or early afternoon visits allowed for thorough exploration of all buildings without feeling rushed.

A donkey held the official position of park mayor with unrestricted access throughout the grounds and its own designated building. This unusual mascot became a beloved part of the visitor experience during the park's operating years.