Arizona is one of the best destinations for exploring national parks and outdoor adventures. From the Sonoran Desert to mountain ranges, Arizona national parks and forests offer incredible hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Tonto National Forest spans 2.9 million acres of rugged trails and scenic drives, while Saguaro National Park near Tucson is famous for its towering cacti and desert sunsets. Whether on a weekend getaway or a Southwest road trip, the best national parks in Arizona deliver unforgettable scenery and experiences.
Lake Pleasant Regional Park
Surrounded by the Sonoran desert, it is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination for action and adventure. With more than 23,000 acres of water and beautiful, unblemished desert landscape, Lake Pleasant Regional Park is one of the most scenic recreation areas in the Valley. There are a number of adventures to embark upon including kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, camping, stargazing and even scorpion hunting.
Lost Dutchman State Park
Lost Dutchman State Park is a beautiful respite in nature just 40 miles outside of Phoenix. Some come in search of gold, while others visit to experience the peaceful hiking or biking trails or to soak in the wide-open skies near their campsite. There’s no guarantee of striking it rich, but you’ll certainly walk away with a trip and photos to treasure.
Red Rock State Park
Red Rock State Park is a state park in Arizona, United States, featuring a red sandstone canyon outside the city of Sedona.
Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is an Arizona State Park located in Oak Creek Canyon 7 miles north of Sedona, Arizona, United States. It takes its name from a natural water slide formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek.
Picacho Peak State Park
Enjoy the view as you hike the trails that wind up the peak and, often in the spring, overlook a sea of wildflowers. The park and surrounding area are known for their unique geological significance, outstanding and varied desert growth, and historical importance.
Agua Fria National Monument
Activities abound in a land marked by two glorious mesas, a stunning canyon, and a riparian forest. From hunting and camping to four-wheel driving, birdwatching, and hiking, nature here provides a pleasant mix of peace and adventure. Agua Fria is also a stellar place to view and photograph wildlife. As with any natural desert area, you’ll want to be prepared when visiting Agua Fria. Make sure you bring food and water, sunscreen, and plenty of gas in the tank.
Tonto National Forest
The Tonto NF features some of the country’s most rugged and inherently beautiful lands. With nearly 600,000 acres of wilderness, there’s a place for you to escape the rigors of modern society.
South Mountain Park & Preserve
At more than 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park/Preserve is one of the largest municipally managed parks in the nation and consists of three mountain ranges – the Ma Ha Tauk, Gila, and Guadalupe. The park boasts more than 50 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Additionally, the roadways throughout the park are a favorite for bicyclists.
Saguaro National Park
Saguaro National Park, near Tucson, AZ, features giant saguaros in their native environment, plus access to wildlife viewing, hiking, and scenic drives.
Papago Park
Papago Park is a municipal park in the cities of Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona, United States.
