Arizona State Parks

10/15/2026

Have you seen the uptick in these American snout butterflies since our recent rains? 🦋 Their camouflage is amazing! 🍂

10/15/2026

A special AZ Family Campout Program weekend is just around the corner! Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park will host campers for a weekend of camping, a candlelight tour in the Courthouse, a historic marker scavenger hunt, archery, Junior Ranger activities, and more! Join park rangers and volunteers for the spooktacular Halloween Campout on October 31-November 1. Have you saved your spot yet? Sign up at AZStateParks.com/Family

10/14/2026

Did you know that petrified wood is Arizona's state fossil? Petrified wood can be found in several areas of northern Arizona, most famously at Petrified Forest National Park. It is made up of ancient trees that have turned to stone over millions of years. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant petrified wood and learn about the state's unique geology and history. Planning a northern Arizona trip? Homolovi State Park makes for a great basecamp to see area attractions like Petrified Forest, Winslow, the Hopi Mesas, the Little Painted Desert, plus the history on display in the museum and at the pueblo sites at the park! Remember, if you find petrified wood while exploring, please leave it where it is for others to enjoy.

10/14/2026

Congratulations to the Arizona Site Steward Program! The Arizona Historical Society (AHS) named the program as the recipient of its prestigious 2026 Al Mérito Award. Established in 1973, this award recognizes meritorious service in preserving and celebrating Arizona’s history. The Arizona Site Stewards Program earned the award through its nomination showcasing stories of stewards in the program going above and beyond to assist land managers over four decades. Program Coordinator Sean Hammond said, "This award isn't for an individual; rather, it is an award for every Site Steward who has ever served in the program." Learn more about the Arizona Site Steward Program at https://azstateparks.com/arizona-site-stewards-volunteer-program.

10/13/2026

"Turn around, don't drown" is no joke! Just 6 inches of swift-moving water is fast enough to sweep a person off their feet, and 12-18 inches is enough to carry away most vehicles. Swollen rivers and flooded washes can also carry hazardous debris like logs and branches hidden beneath the silty surface, so steer clear.

When it comes to outdoor recreation, always check the forecast before any adventure and have a backup plan if rain is predicted. If heavy rain catches you off guard, move to higher ground if you see or hear rushing water. Even storms miles away can cause flash flooding at elevations below. When camping, pick a site away from areas that flood, like washes, canyons, and low-lying areas. Always bring extra supplies like food, water, and medications, just in case you need to wait for waters blocking your exit to recede.

10/11/2026

Tropical storm moisture = the desert's big drink! 🌧️ Rain in Arizona means the earth and the breeze smell of petrichor and creosote, the washes come to life with flowing water, the mountains can spring waterfalls, and native vegetation quickly greens up. 🌱

Enjoy these sounds and scenes from the parks of raindrops falling, rainbows forming, and clouds blanketing the sky! Remember that significant rainfall in the desert can also result in flash flooding, so practice caution when it comes to outdoor adventures and stay informed on park or trail closures by checking our website before you head out.

📸: Rockin' River Ranch State Park, Picacho Peak State Park, Red Rock State Park, Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park, Fort Verde State Historic Park during last week's rainstorms

10/11/2026

10/10/2026

Did you know that Cattail Cove State Park has a group camping area? Yes! The park has a group camping area containing 10 sites, designated bathrooms, full hookups, multiple picnic tables, and a group fire pit area! Friends and families who want to camp together: enjoy this secluded area and create memories that will last a lifetime! The group camping area can be booked through the park's office in person or over the phone at (480) 340-4810.

10/09/2026

Bird watching, but in reverse? The chances of catching an owl watching YOU are low, but never zero. 🦉 Those big eyes serve an important purpose for the Great Horned Owl. Along with terrific hearing, they have exceptional eyesight, allowing them to spot and catch prey at night or in other low light situations. Whooo knew?
📸: Tiffany Lucero/Opt Outside '23-24 Photo Contest at Catalina State Park

10/08/2026

Coming soon for the AZ Family Campout Program... 🥁🥁🥁 Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park! Join park rangers and volunteers for a fun Halloween Campout on October 31-November. Sign up at AZStateParks.com/Family

Spend Halloween in the Gallows Courtyard….learning how to camp with AZ Family Campout Program!
Bring your costume, we’ll bring the tents, and enjoy a spooktacular time at Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park! You’ll learn camping basics, archery, complete a service project at Schieffelin Monument, and so much more!
Halloween weekend, only $90 for a family of four! To register or for more information visit https://azstateparks.com/family-camp