By Brooke Johnson, Cañon City Daily Record Dubbed the largest authentic Old West Theme Park in the nation, Buckskin Joe opened in the summer of 1958 and was a smashing success. With no admission costs, the town was a hit with locals and tourists alike. Newspaper articles report thousands of people making Buckskin Joe a weekend destination with packed parking lots before 10 a.m. Original buildings from old forgotten western towns were restored and lined the street, selling gifts, antiques, and refreshments.