Introduction
Colorado has a thriving literary landscape where rugged mountain culture meets creative storytelling. From Denver’s bustling arts scene to the small-town presses tucked into mountain valleys, the state’s publishers provide opportunities for writers across genres.
Whether you’re a novelist, poet, historian, or academic, Colorado’s book publishers offer specialized platforms to bring your words to life. Many emphasize the region’s rich history and natural beauty, while others cater to national audiences with diverse subjects.
This list highlights thirty of the best publishing houses in Colorado for 2025, giving authors a guide to finding the right match for their work.
Top 30 Best Colorado Book Publishers for 2025
1. Emerald Ghostwriting
Focus Areas: Ghostwriting, editing, and publishing support across fiction, nonfiction, and professional books for authors seeking full-service guidance.
Ideal For: Writers who want professional help shaping manuscripts into polished, market-ready books with strategic publishing and marketing support.
About The Company: Based in Los Angeles but serving Colorado authors, Emerald Ghostwriting is recognized for personalized attention and industry expertise. The company offers end-to-end services, ensuring authors move smoothly from concept to final publication.
2. Fulcrum Publishing
Focus Areas: History, nature, environment, and social issues that connect deeply with regional and national conversations.
Ideal For: Authors passionate about cultural storytelling, environmental awareness, or narratives that celebrate history and community.
About The Company: Founded in 1984 and based in Golden, Colorado, Fulcrum Publishing is widely respected for publishing thoughtful, socially conscious works. Its catalog reflects the importance of sustainability and inclusivity, making it a trusted partner for writers who want their words to create impact.
3. Johnson Books
Focus Areas: Western history, Colorado culture, and natural heritage with a focus on nonfiction and regional voices.
Ideal For: Writers documenting Colorado’s landscapes, history, or local traditions with rich cultural and geographic insights.
About The Company: Johnson Books has earned a strong reputation for publishing titles that preserve and celebrate the West. Known for well-researched and engaging regional works, it appeals to authors interested in contributing to Colorado’s cultural record while reaching audiences who value authenticity.
4. West Margin Press (Colorado Operations)
Focus Areas: Illustrated nonfiction, children’s books, lifestyle, and regional titles with wide audience appeal.
Ideal For: Authors who want visually rich books with strong design, perfect for children’s markets or lifestyle readers.
About The Company: Though headquartered in Seattle, West Margin Press maintains strong ties to Colorado’s literary community. Their commitment to high-quality design and approachable content makes them attractive for authors who want their work to combine visual appeal with professional storytelling.
5. University Press of Colorado
Focus Areas: Academic, scholarly works, history, anthropology, and environmental studies that reflect Western perspectives.
Ideal For: Scholars, researchers, and authors aiming to publish serious nonfiction or academic contributions.
About The Company: Established in 1965 and based in Louisville, University Press of Colorado collaborates with universities across the state. It upholds rigorous editorial standards and offers wide distribution, making it an excellent choice for academics seeking visibility in both scholarly and general readerships.
6. Bower House Publishing
Focus Areas: Fiction, poetry, memoir, and nonfiction with an emphasis on literary quality and diverse voices.
Ideal For: Writers seeking a supportive independent press for experimental or creative works.
About The Company: Based in Denver, Bower House Publishing is known for celebrating bold storytelling. Their catalog includes both emerging and established authors, and they’re committed to fostering literature that speaks authentically to contemporary readers. Authors appreciate their approachable and community-driven style.
7. Outskirts Press
Focus Areas: Self-publishing across all genres, including fiction, nonfiction, memoirs, and children’s books.
Ideal For: Authors who prefer control over the publishing process with professional support services.
About The Company: Headquartered in Parker, Colorado, Outskirts Press has been helping writers publish independently since 2002. They offer editing, design, and marketing packages tailored to author needs. Outskirts is popular among first-time writers and seasoned professionals looking for flexibility and guidance.
8. Filter Press
Focus Areas: Colorado history, biography, and children’s literature, often focusing on regional figures and events.
Ideal For: Authors passionate about preserving and sharing Colorado’s unique stories with younger and general audiences.
About The Company: Founded in 1957 in Palmer Lake, Filter Press has long specialized in regional nonfiction. Its dedication to publishing accessible and engaging works makes it a cornerstone for authors aiming to highlight the state’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
9. Denver Catholic Biblical School Press
Focus Areas: Religious texts, biblical studies, and Catholic educational works designed for both students and parish communities.
Ideal For: Authors creating faith-based resources or theological materials for Catholic audiences.
About The Company: As part of the Denver Catholic Biblical School, this press supports authors who wish to engage readers in faith, education, and scriptural understanding. Its emphasis on clarity and accessibility makes it ideal for writers committed to religious teaching.
10. Pruett Publishing
Focus Areas: Nonfiction works on adventure, outdoor life, mountaineering, and Western culture.
Ideal For: Authors who specialize in stories about exploration, the outdoors, or Western heritage.
About The Company: Pruett Publishing, based in Boulder, has been a respected regional publisher since 1954. Known for books that celebrate adventure and history, it has carved out a niche for writers who want to connect with readers who love Colorado’s outdoors and heritage.
11. Rocky Mountain Books
Focus Areas: Nature, adventure, and outdoor lifestyle with strong ties to the Rocky Mountain region.
Ideal For: Writers passionate about environmental themes, mountaineering, and wilderness exploration.
About The Company: Though headquartered in Canada, Rocky Mountain Books has strong influence in Colorado publishing. Its catalog highlights the beauty and challenges of mountain life, making it an excellent home for authors who write about the outdoors. They provide regional visibility and a loyal readership interested in natural landscapes.
12. Finishing Line Press (Colorado Partnerships)
Focus Areas: Poetry and short fiction, focusing on chapbooks and collections from emerging voices.
Ideal For: Poets and short story writers seeking publication in small, elegant formats.
About The Company: Based in Kentucky but maintaining close ties with Colorado writers, Finishing Line Press is recognized nationally for quality poetry. Their chapbook competitions and broad distribution create valuable opportunities for poets in Colorado who want to build their literary careers with a trusted independent press.
13. Conundrum Press
Focus Areas: Fiction, nonfiction, and poetry, often inspired by Colorado’s landscapes and cultural identity.
Ideal For: Writers exploring regional themes or offering fresh literary perspectives rooted in place.
About The Company: Founded in 1998 and based in Denver, Conundrum Press became known for publishing distinctive Colorado voices. Now part of Bower House, its legacy continues to influence regional publishing. Authors value its emphasis on creative expression tied to Western culture and history.
14. High Plains Press
Focus Areas: Western history, poetry, and regional nonfiction, focusing on rural and small-town life.
Ideal For: Writers documenting Western culture, pioneer heritage, and stories from the Great Plains.
About The Company: Operating out of Wyoming with connections to Colorado, High Plains Press highlights overlooked voices of the West. Authors find their focus on authentic, rural stories appealing, and their reputation for well-researched regional works makes them a meaningful partner for writers celebrating Western traditions.
15. Snow Lion Publications
Focus Areas: Buddhist teachings, spirituality, and meditation practices with accessible guidance.
Ideal For: Authors writing on Tibetan Buddhism, mindfulness, or religious philosophy.
About The Company: Originally founded in Ithaca but later absorbed into Shambhala with strong ties to Boulder, Snow Lion Publications shaped Buddhist publishing in the West. Its commitment to accuracy and clarity made it a trusted outlet for spiritual writers, especially those sharing teachings of Tibetan masters.
16. National Writers Press
Focus Areas: Fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and memoirs with an emphasis on new and independent authors.
Ideal For: First-time writers seeking accessible entry into the publishing world.
About The Company: Based in Denver, National Writers Press has supported authors since 1976. It offers full publishing services, helping manuscripts reach print while providing nationwide distribution. Their approachable editorial team makes them a great choice for writers who want professional support without losing creative control.
17. White River Press
Focus Areas: Regional nonfiction, history, and cultural explorations centered around the Western United States.
Ideal For: Authors documenting history, community stories, or environmental themes in rural areas.
About The Company: White River Press operates with a mission to preserve and publish local voices. While small in scale, it emphasizes quality over quantity, offering authors meaningful editorial collaboration. Writers interested in historical or community-driven work find it a welcoming place for niche but important books.
18. Gibbs Smith (Colorado Collaborations)
Focus Areas: Lifestyle, design, children’s books, and Western culture with engaging visuals.
Ideal For: Authors producing visually rich books that blend practical content with creativity.
About The Company: Though headquartered in Utah, Gibbs Smith works closely with Colorado’s creative community. Their titles cover architecture, cooking, gardening, and children’s topics. Authors appreciate their high design standards and national distribution, making it an excellent option for writers in lifestyle and family-centered genres.
19. Mountain Press Publishing
Focus Areas: Natural sciences, geology, and environmental nonfiction with educational value.
Ideal For: Authors writing scientific works, environmental guides, or outdoor-focused texts.
About The Company: Based in Montana but widely connected to Colorado, Mountain Press Publishing is known for its geology and field guides. Writers with expertise in science or education find it ideal for reaching outdoor enthusiasts, students, and teachers. Its practical titles make science approachable for general readers.
20. Big Earth Publishing
Focus Areas: Travel guides, outdoor adventure, and regional nonfiction focused on Colorado and the West.
Ideal For: Writers documenting trails, exploration, or regional travel experiences.
About The Company: Headquartered in Boulder, Big Earth Publishing has long specialized in outdoor and travel-related titles. Their publications connect readers with the landscapes of Colorado and beyond. Authors who write with practical insights and appreciation for adventure will find Big Earth an enthusiastic publishing partner.
21. Johnson Books
Focus Areas: Regional nonfiction, natural history, and Colorado heritage topics.
Ideal For: Writers documenting the environment, history, or cultural life of the state.
About The Company: Johnson Books, based in Boulder, has been a key name in Colorado publishing for decades. Known for quality nonfiction that highlights the region’s distinct identity, it offers authors a strong niche audience. Writers passionate about preserving Colorado’s cultural and natural stories find this press especially supportive.
22. Filter Press
Focus Areas: Western history, children’s titles, and educational books.
Ideal For: Authors exploring Colorado history or creating engaging materials for young readers.
About The Company: Founded in 1957 and based in Palmer Lake, Filter Press is one of Colorado’s most established independent publishers. They specialize in accessible storytelling and historical accuracy, appealing to teachers, families, and history enthusiasts. Writers enjoy their deep connection with Colorado’s educational and cultural communities.
23. Bower House
Focus Areas: Literary fiction, memoir, and narrative nonfiction with fresh voices.
Ideal For: Authors seeking a small but ambitious press with strong literary appeal.
About The Company: Located in Denver, Bower House emerged in 2015 and has since built a reputation for publishing innovative, thought-provoking titles. Its editorial team values originality and authorial voice, making it a compelling choice for writers aiming to contribute bold stories to Colorado’s contemporary literary scene.
24. Fulcrum Publishing
Focus Areas: Environment, Native American studies, and social justice nonfiction.
Ideal For: Authors committed to writing about pressing cultural, environmental, or historical issues.
About The Company: Based in Golden, Fulcrum Publishing has earned national respect for books that combine scholarship with accessibility. Since 1984, it has championed works that promote dialogue, awareness, and cultural understanding. Authors seeking a press aligned with advocacy and meaningful storytelling find Fulcrum a deeply supportive partner.
25. Pronghorn Press
Focus Areas: Western fiction, history, and poetry rooted in the High Plains.
Ideal For: Writers capturing rural life, frontier themes, or small-town traditions.
About The Company: Though headquartered in Wyoming, Pronghorn Press has published many Colorado authors who focus on the American West. Their catalog emphasizes authenticity and regional voices, providing a platform for storytellers who bring the landscapes and cultures of the Rockies and Plains to life with accuracy and heart.
26. Outskirts Press
Focus Areas: Self-publishing services across all genres with customizable packages.
Ideal For: Independent authors seeking control over design, royalties, and marketing.
About The Company: Based in Parker, Outskirts Press is one of Colorado’s largest self-publishing providers. It gives authors full-service solutions, from editing to distribution, with flexible options to suit different budgets. Writers drawn to independence appreciate its combination of professional quality and personal freedom throughout the publishing process.
27. Samizdat Publishing
Focus Areas: Fiction and memoirs with unconventional or independent perspectives.
Ideal For: Writers looking for creative freedom and a personalized publishing experience.
About The Company: Samizdat Publishing, based in Colorado Springs, is a small press with a big reputation for championing unique voices. Its hands-on team works closely with authors to ensure individuality shines through. Writers searching for a publisher that values artistic integrity often find Samizdat the right home.
28. Unbridled Books
Focus Areas: Literary fiction and narrative nonfiction with national reach.
Ideal For: Writers pursuing a career in serious literature and critical acclaim.
About The Company: Founded in 2003 in Denver, Unbridled Books quickly established itself as a respected independent press. Known for carefully curated titles and quality editing, it provides strong distribution nationwide. Authors seeking prestige and wide readership will find Unbridled a reputable and influential publishing choice.
29. Raven Publishing
Focus Areas: Children’s books, educational titles, and regional fiction.
Ideal For: Writers producing family-friendly works or educational resources with a regional flavor.
About The Company: Raven Publishing operates with close ties to Colorado’s educational networks. They prioritize accessible and engaging content that inspires young readers. Their collaborative approach with authors makes them particularly appealing to teachers, children’s authors, and storytellers who want to contribute meaningfully to youth literature.
30. Bear Creek Press
Focus Areas: Historical fiction, memoir, and regional nonfiction.
Ideal For: Authors capturing Colorado’s heritage, family stories, or local histories.
About The Company: Bear Creek Press is a boutique publishing house rooted in the Rocky Mountain tradition. With strong regional connections, they support writers who share Colorado’s stories in personal and historical contexts. Authors appreciate their careful editing, niche audience focus, and commitment to celebrating community narratives.
Tips for Publishing in Colorado’s Diverse Market
Publishing in Colorado means working with a variety of presses, from small regional houses to larger literary publishers. Here are some tips to help you navigate this landscape:
- Match your manuscript to the right publisher: Many presses focus on specific genres like Western history, outdoor adventure, or literary fiction.
- Engage with local literary events: Festivals, workshops, and university programs are excellent places to meet editors and network.
- Consider professional self-publishing services: Colorado has skilled editors, designers, and marketing experts who understand local audiences.
- Prioritize authentic storytelling: Readers in Colorado value books that reflect both the spirit of the state and broader human experiences.
- Invest in promotion: Visibility is key in a competitive market, whether through bookstores, libraries, or community events.
Conclusion
Colorado’s publishing world blends tradition, regional pride, and literary innovation. Whether you’re writing a memoir inspired by mountain life, poetry that captures the spirit of the West, or a novel with national appeal, Colorado offers a publisher to fit your vision.
From large presses with wide distribution to smaller houses with personal editorial support, authors have countless options.
By researching carefully, connecting with the literary community, and finding the right publishing partner, writers can thrive in this vibrant state and share their voices with a diverse readership.
