Top 5 Family Photo Locations in Colorado Springs
By Joy Walz, Touch of Joy Photography
Looking for the perfect place to capture your family’s laughter, connection, and joy? Colorado Springs is full of breathtaking backdrops — from red rocks to charming streets to lush green trails. These are my Top favorite spots for family sessions that feel natural, soulful, and beautiful.
Bear Creek Nature Center
A hidden gem nestled at the foot of the mountains, Bear Creek offers trails, bridges, grassy meadows, and wooded spots — perfect for relaxed, candid family photos with a bit of variety.
Best for: Nature-loving families, spring greens or golden fall vibes
Pro Tip: This is one of my favorite spots for young kids — there’s room to roam without too much hiking!
From My Lens: See a dreamy maternity session captured in this peaceful space.
Historic Manitou Springs
Want something playful and unique? Manitou Springs offers vintage charm, colorful buildings, cobblestone paths, and mountain views all wrapped into one. It’s an unexpected but super fun place for a session.
Best for: Artsy, quirky vibes; urban-meets-mountain feel
Pro Tip: Plan a late afternoon session and end with ice cream or arcade fun — I’ll capture it all!
View the Vibe: Check out my gallery for more playful family sessions like this one.
North Cheyenne Cañon
Tucked between cliffs and forests, this canyon feels like an adventure in the making. There are streams, bridges, pine trees, and mountain textures everywhere you look.
Best for: Adventurous families, shaded sessions, or something a little more moody and woodsy
Pro Tip: If you love the idea of running water or forest magic, this spot is for you.
One Last Thing: Couples also love this spot for intimate elopements. Click here to learn more about my elopement sessions.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
If you love that warm, earthy Colorado vibe, Red Rock Canyon is the place. With dramatic red cliffs, wild grasses, and wide open trails, it’s a dreamy sunset location.
Best for: Natural tones, boho-inspired sessions, and families who love to move
Pro Tip: Wear earthy or neutral tones to complement the rich red backdrop.
Takeaway: This spot is perfect for vacationing families looking for those epic Colorado colors. Click here to see more moments like this.
Garden of the Gods
You can’t beat this iconic Colorado Springs view — dramatic red rock formations with Pikes Peak standing tall in the distance. It’s popular for a reason, and when timed right, it’s absolute magic.
Best for: Classic Colorado look, wide-open spaces, epic mountain backdrops
Pro Tip: Choose a weekday sunrise or sunset session for the best light and fewer crowds.
Just a Thought: Planning a surprise proposal? This spot is breathtakingly romantic. Click here to learn more about proposal sessions at Garden of the Gods.
Fox Run Regional Park
Fox Run is like stepping into an enchanted forest. With its tall pine trees, open grassy fields, and peaceful little lake, it’s a perfect all-season spot. Whether you want dreamy backlit golden hour or cozy shaded forest vibes, this place delivers.
Best for: Forest lovers, cozy fall sessions, woodsy fairytale energy
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket for snuggly family shots under the trees — and don’t be surprised if your kids want to stay and play afterward!
Downtown Colorado Springs
Downtown brings a totally different energy — think brick alleyways, colorful murals, local charm, and urban textures with a mountain backdrop still peeking in. It’s fun, modern, and full of personality.
Best for: Edgy or artsy families, teens and tweens, lifestyle sessions
Pro Tip: We can stroll around, grab coffee, and turn it into a casual photo walk. It’s great for getting natural, in-the-moment shots with cool architectural contrast.
Just a Thought: If you’re looking for a unique location for your senior portraits? From natural backdrops to urban textures, these spots are perfect for Colorado Springs high school seniors. Click here for more high school senior inspiration
Let’s Make Your Story the Next One I Capture
Each of these Colorado Springs locations has its own magic — from red rocks glowing at sunset to pine forests that feel like a fairytale. But what makes these spots truly special is the people I get to photograph in them.
Whether you’re visiting Colorado Springs on a family vacation, celebrating a milestone, getting ready to graduate, or planning something a little wild and free — I’d love to help you create images that feel real, beautiful, and completely yours.