Saguaro National Park

In 1933, the Saguaro National Park was created to protect the saguaro, other desert plants and rock formations with petroglyphs made by Native Indians long ago. The park is separated into two sections. The Rincon Mountain District is approximately 15 miles east of Tucson. The Tucson Mountain District is about 15 miles west of Tucson.

Both of these districts represent the Sonoran desert and include magnificent stands of saguaro cacti. Saguaros are unique cacti. They have also been described as the monarch of the Sonoran Desert, as a prickly horror and as the supreme symbol of the American Southwest. Saguaros grow only in southern Arizona , in California along the Colorado River and in northern Mexico. Protection is the key to the success of a saguaro. Palo Verde trees and other shade plants protect a young saguaro.

Saguaros can live up to 200 years and can reach the heights of 30 to 40 feet. They are slow growing. It takes about twenty-five years to grow, just two feet. The saguaro arms do not appear until the cactus is 75 years old. The arms of the saguaro have caused people to call them the plant with personality. Saguaros with arms look all too human. They have white blossoms that appear in May and June. The saguaro blossom is Arizona ’s state flower.

The Rincon Mountain District houses the park’s headquarters and is located on Freeman Road, south of Old Spanish Trail about 15 miles from Tucson. This district stretches out 66,336 acres. It also contains a visitor center with plant and animal displays. The displays include desert animal skeletons and a cross section of a saguaro. A 15-minute slide show tells about the park’s plant and wildlife. There are nature programs available in the winter. Visitors can also explore the desert by taking a driving tour. The Cactus Forest Drive starts at the visitor center and continues for 8 miles through the beautiful Sonoran desert.

There are two picnic spots along the drive. If you would like more information, call 520-733-5153.The Tucson Mountain District has a visitor center filled with informative exhibits. Here you will see 20,738 acres of desert landscape. The Red Hills Visitor Center is on Kinney Road about 15 miles from Tucson just off of Speedway/Gates Pass Road. There are signs to direct you to the park. There is a driving trail that is located in the area. Before embarking on the drive, you will want to stop in at the visitor center for a map. The Bajada Loop Drives winds for 6 miles through the National Park.

There are four picnic areas available at the Tucson Mountain District. For more information you may call, 520-733-5158. When you make your visit to either of these Districts, is it recommended you come prepared for the adventure. It is advisable to bring water, dress appropriately for the climate and plan on at least a half a day to take in the whole park. During the summer the temperatures can rise past 100 degrees, therefore the best time to plan a trip is during the winter, fall or springtime. Both districts offer bird watching, photography, hiking and guided walks. You will want to make a stop at the visitor center to find out more. Both districts in the Saguaro National Park are open everyday from dawn to dusk.

The Visitor Centers are open everyday from 8:30 to 5:00 pm, except on Christmas. Admission costs vary depending on which district you would like to visit. Admission to the Rincon Mountain District is by a 7-day permit or by annual permit. The 7-day permit costs $4.00 per vehicle or $2.00 for individuals arriving by other means. The Tucson Mountain District admission is free. The Saguaro National Park is a one of a kind place to visit. Please remember to leave only your footprints and take nothing but wonderful memories.

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is over 665,400 acres of Sonoran Desert. The refuge contains 516,300 acres of official wilderness spread over three major mountain ranges (Kofa, Castle Dome and New Water Mountains).

The elevations in the refuge vary dramatically. Visitors may be at an elevation of 680 feet on the desert floor and then travel to Signal Peak at 4,877 feet. Temperatures also change. In the months of December and January, the lows range near 25 degrees, yet in July and September, temperatures can reach 115 degrees.

The Sonoran Desert provides a unique habitat for vegetation. Here visitors will find creosote, ironwood, mesquite, palo verde and ocotillo. Not only is there vegetation, but desert wildlife. Bighorn sheep, mule deer, kit fox, desert tortoise, rattlesnakes and bats live in the refuge. There are also 188 species of birds in the area.

Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is for experienced hikers and four-wheel drive vehicles. Hikers often encounter wild burros and bighorn sheep. It is important to carry water into this area and to be prepared.

One area in the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge that is especially unique is Palm Canyon. You can get to Palm Canyon from Yuma by taking Highway 95 north out of town, past Stone Cabin. You will need to be on the lookout for a maintained gravel road called Palm Canyon Road. You will travel on this road for approximately 9 miles. You can get to Palm Canyon from Phoenix by taking Interstate 10 west out of town. At Quartzsite, turn south on Highway 95. It is approximately 9 miles south of Quartzsite. You will need to be on the lookout for a maintained gravel road called Palm Canyon Road. You will travel on this road for approximately 9 miles. This is one of the few places in Arizona where native palms grow. The hike up to the palms is a strenuous one.

The Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is open daily 24 hours. There isn’t a fee to go into the refuge. If you would like to find out more, call 520-783-7861.

Yuma Crossing

Take a step back in history by visiting the Yuma Crossing State Historic Park. The Yuma Crossing State Historic Park was once a depot along the Colorado River. In its hay day, the depot kept six months of supplies available for forts in the Southwest. The depot operated from 1864 to 1883. Today you will find six restored building on the site of the depot.

Here you will walk through the historic buildings and discover the rich past of the Southwest. This 20-acre park was first inhabited by the Patayan culture and then later by the Quechan Indian Tribe. As time past, Spanish explorers, mountain men, gold rush seekers, soldiers, railroad men and steamboat captains lived in this area. This park is a tribute to these people and their forms of transportation that made Yuma an important river crossing.

The park is unique in that costumed docents relay information to visitors, which help you see what life was like in the old west. Many of the exhibits have photographs and artifacts from the time. The Yuma Crossing State Historic Park is open everyday from 8:00 to 5:00 pm. It is closed on Christmas Day. The cost for admission is $3.00 and children ages 7 to 13 are $2.00. You can get to the park by taking the 4th Avenue exit from Interstate 8. The entrance to the park is on the east side of 4th Avenue. If you want more information on the park, you may call 520-329-0471.

Alamo Lake State Park

Alamo Lake State Park
Alamo Lake State Park is a part of a 4,900-acre park, which sits at an elevation of 1.100 feet. It is located on the Bill Williams River about 30 miles before it empties into the Colorado River. “Alamo”means cottonwood in Spanish and the lake definitely lives up to its name. There are cottonwoods even lurking under the waters of the lake. The Rawhide and Buckskin Mountains make a great backdrop to the lake. Alamo Lake is a transition area between the Sonoran and Mohave Deserts.
The lake waters cover the site of Alamo Crossing, which was a mining camp long ago. The camp had a supply store and a post office for prospectors. The post office eventually closed in 1918. The Army Corps of Engineers built Alamo Lake in 1968 as flood control and conservation dam. The dam rises 283 feet above the streambed and backs up a reservoir of water.
Visitors will want to stop in at the Visitor Center, before deciding on the many outdoor activities the lake has to offer. There is outstanding fishing, hiking, wildlife watching and camping. Swimming is not recommended, due to brush and trees making it hazardous. The Visitor Center also has information of wildlife and the geology of the area.
Even though the lake levels vary, fishing is ideal. The lake has large-mouth bass, bluegill and catfish. The marina store is well stocked for fishermen and boat rentals are available. There is also a boat-launching ramp. Many anglers say that this is one of the best fishing lakes in Arizona .
Those who come to view the wildlife won’t be disappointed. Quail, deer, coyote, burros, squirrels and bald eagles are just some of the animals that make Alamo Lake their home. Large flocks of birds visit the lake because it is the only permanent water for miles around. The bald eagles have a nesting site at the upper part of the lake. Nature lovers will appreciate the area’s representation of unique features of the Sonoran Desert.
Camping is available all year round. There are 250 campsites, which range from underdeveloped tent sites to full RV hook-ups. Campers will find restrooms with flush toilets, a dump station and hot showers. There are picnic shelters that make the camping experience fun. The cost for a nightly campsite ranges between $8.00 and $10.00 and RV hook-up sites are $15.00. No reservations are taken; all campsites are available on a first come first serve basis.
The Visitor Center has varying hours, so please call ahead to find out. The cost of admission to the park is $4.00 per vehicle and $1.00 per individual or bicycle. Visitors can also purchase three other forms of entrance passes for Arizona State Parks. Prices depend on length of stay. The 5-day visit pass is $15.00, the Limited Day-Use pass is $35.00 and the Unlimited Day-Use pass is $65.00. These passes do not include camping fees. For more information and prices for camping call 520-669-2088.
You can get to Alamo Lake State Park from Wickenburg by taking State Highway 60 west out of town to the turn off for the lake. The road out to Alamo Lake is 38 miles paved. If you are coming from Phoenix or Tucson take Interstate 17 north out of town. Once you have come to State Highway 74, just outside of Phoenix take it west. When State Highway 74 runs into State Highway 60, take it north to Wickenburg. You will continue through town following State Highway 60 on out heading west. Continue on State Highway 60 out to the turn off for the lake. If you are coming from Flagstaff and would like to take a scenic route to Wickenburg, you will take Highway 89A south out of town. You will pass through Sedona, Cottonwood and into Prescott. Once in Prescott take Highway 89 southwest out of town passing through Peeples Valley. When Highway 89 meets State Highway 93 take it south to Wickenburg. Once you are in Wickenburg, you will take State Highway 60 west out of town. You will continue on State Highway 60 out to the turn off for the lake.

Adobe Mountain Museum and Desert Railroad Park

Adobe Mountain Museum and Desert Railroad Park

23280 North 43rd

Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85310

It is a great place to go for those who love model trains. The Adobe Mountain Museum and Desert Railroad Park is the perfect home for train enthusiasts.

the Sahuaro Central Railroad Heritage Preservation Society has joined forces with the Adobe Mountain Railroad Museum and the Desert Railroad Park. This combination effort is working together to honor and preserve railroad history, memorabilia, train models, and mementos.the Adobe Mountain Railroad Museum and the Desert Railroad Park is located in northwest Phoenix, near 43rd Avenue and Pinnacle Peak Road. It is situated on 160 acres and h is part of the Maricopa County and Arizona Parks and Recreation Department. The goal of the park and museum is to develop and display model railroads, prototype railroad equipment, and artifacts throughout the history of railroad.

Visitors to the Phoenix Adobe Mountain Museum and Desert Railroad Park will see interesting exhibits. There is on display a small, narrow gauge 1884 locomotive, several model railroad layouts, and historical displays.

this museum and park is growing in size, with the help of volunteers. Contact the Adobe Mountain Railroad Museum and the Desert Railroad Park for more information on hours of operation, admission charges, and opportunities to improve the facilitythe Adobe Mountain Railroad Museum and the Desert Railroad Park is an ideal place to take the family. Learning about Arizona’s railway past and preserving its memorabilia are activities worth sharing.

Enchanted Island Amusement Park

Enchanted Island Amusement Park at Encanto Park

1202 West Encanto Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85007

Local Arizonans will remember and those who have just arrived to the Phoenix area will create new memories, while visiting the Enchanted Island Amusement Park in Encanto Park. Today, the park offers fun and excitement for all visitors.

Encanto Park has been one of the valley’s best places to take family and friends. The park is located in the heart of the downtown Phoenix, near 7th Avenue on Encanto Boulevard. Visitors will find many ramada picnic areas, lagoons, canals, softball fields, basketball courts, and two golf courses all of which is situated on 222 acres. The Enchanted Island Amusement Park is an area inside Encanto Park that is packed full of rides and games.

the C.P. Huntington Train beckons everyone to Enchanted Island Amusement Park in Phoenix. A silver, black, and chrome design is painted on the engine car. The train gives riders a tour of the park grounds and an opportunity to scout out all the games and rides available. The 5/8 mile train ride takes approximately seven minutes. The train travels through a tunnel and passes by several crossing signals. Rides in Phoenix’s Enchanted Island Amusement Park are geared to youngsters ages 5 to 10. Kiddie Cars, Dragon Wagon, Rock and Roll, Parachute Tower, and the Red Baron are just some of the names of the rides found inside the amusement park. Kids will want to take a spin on these rides again and again. Call the Enchanted Island Amusement Park to find out about park hours and admission prices.

After spending time on land, many visitors decide to cool off by heading waterside. Bumper Boats, pedal boats, and canoes are all available for a small fee. The cost is well worth it. You will see the park from a whole other vantage point. Plus, the wet water and cool breeze will help you prepare for more Enchanted Island Amusement Park fun ahead.

Once your feet hit land, you must stroll over to the Encanto Carousel. This 50 year old carousel has been the focal point of Encanto Park. The carousel has been the backdrop to countless pictures of family reunions, weddings, birthday, and other special events. The Encanto Carousel is the oldest continuously running carousel in Arizona. Beginning in 1948, when the Encanto Carousel was placed in Kiddieland Amusement Park (the original name of the amusement park at the time), it has been the centerpiece. The Encanto Carousel continues to thrill its riders and its history and beauty amazes everyone.

Phoenix’s Enchanted Island Amusement Park is an attraction that can not be missed. It is a part of Phoenix’s history and will soon be a part of your family’s traditions.

Dog Parks

Arizona Dog Parks

there are dog parks springing up all over the Valley of the Sun. Both dogs and people enjoy spending time together at Phoenix area dog parks. Take some time and look over the following list of dog parks located in and around the Phoenix area. Soon you will be taking in the pleasant Arizona weather with your furry friend. *Please remember to follow all the rules posted at the dog park. Make sure you clean up after your pet. We want everyone to have a great experience at the local Phoenix are dog parks.

Chandler Shawnee Park

this park is located at 1400 West Mesquite (near Alma School, north of Warner). It is open from 6:00 am 10:30 pm. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. There is 3 acres to run with a combination of grass and desert landscaping. Chandler Snedigar Bark Park

this park is located at 4500 South Basha Road (at Alma School Road and Warner). It is open from 6:00 am 10:30 pm. The park offers benches, restrooms, dog fountain, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. There are training obstacles available. Fountain Hills Desert Vista Park

this park is located at 11800 North Desert Vista Drive (near Saguaro Blovard). It is open from dawn dusk. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. There is about 3.5 acres of grass and a half acre for smaller dogs. Gilbert Dog Park at Crossroads

this park is located at 2155 East Knox Road (west of Greenfield and south of Warner). It is open from 6:00 am 10:00 pm. The park offers benches, tables, water, lights, and trash cans. There are separate fenced areas for active and timid dogs. This park is best in the early morning during the summer season because there is no shade. Glendale Foothills Dog Park

this park is located at the corner of 57thAvenue and Union Drive, next to the baseball field (access is best from the North Glendale Library parking lot). It is open from 6:00 am 10:00 pm. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. There are agility toys and trails available. Glendale Saguaro Ranch Park

this park is located at the corner of 63rdAvenue and Mountain View. It is open from 6:00 am 10:00 pm. The park offers benches and trees. The dog park is an enclosed area within this park that includes almost an acre.

Mesa Quail Run

this park is located at 4155 East Virginia (near Greenfield and Virginia). It is open from sunrise 10:00 pm. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, restrooms, and trash cans. There is 3 acres with many new trees. Scottsdale Chaparral Park

this park is located at 5401 North Hayden Road (at the southeast corner of McDonald Drive and Hayden Road). It is open from dawn 9:00 pm. The park offers benches, restroom, water, and trash cans. There is 2.2 acres to run with areas for large and passive dogs. Scottsdale Horizon Park

this park is located at 15444 North 100thStreet (near Thompson Peak Parkway and 100thStreet). It is open from dawn dusk. The park offers benches, trash cans, and fountains for dogs and people. Scottsdale Vista del Camino Park

this park is located at 7700 East Pierce Street (west on Pierce Street from Hayden Road). It is open from sunrise 10:30 pm. The park offers benches, fountains, restrooms and trash cans. There is just under an acre to play. Tempe Creamery Park

this park is located at 1520 East 8thStreet (west of McClintock and south of University). It is open from 6:00 am midnight. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. Tempe Mitchell Park

this park is located at the corner of Mitchell Drive and 9thStreet. It is open from 6:00 am midnight. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. Tempe Papago Park

this park is located at 1000 North College Avenue (south of Curry). It is open from 6:00 am midnight. The park offers benches, trees, water, lights, and trash cans. Dog parks have become very popular in recent years. There are many reasons people head to the dog park. Those living in apartments or small condominiums use the park to let their pet stretch his/her legs. There are other people who want to get their dog socialized with other dogs. No matter what reason you go to the dog park, you will find one close by.

Desert Breeze Railroad Park

Desert Breeze Railroad Park

660 North Desert Breeze Boulevard, East, Chandler, AZ 85226

It is a breeze to have fun at the Desert Breeze Railroad Park in Chandler! You, your family, and friends will discover that there are lots of things to do at the park.

Climb on! The Desert Breeze Railroad is about to take off. There are several open air coaches to choose from while taking a spin on the railroad. The replica of a Santa Fe Steam engine is available to pull kids and adults around the Chandler Desert Breeze Railroad Park. The trip around the park covers approximately three-quarters of a mile.

Part of the fun of the Desert Breeze Railroad ride is the waiting for the train to arrive. The old fashioned train station really sets the mood. Riders begin to imagine what it would have been like to have lived during the time of the old West. As the train pulls in, everyone talks about the cute little red caboose that brings up the end of the Chandler Desert Breeze Train.

It’s the coolest ride in the desert!

Once on board, the Chandler Desert Breeze Railroad takes passengers past the park’s grassy fields, trees, and lake. To find out more about the train’s hours of operation and fare price, contact the Desert Breeze Railroad Park in Chandler.

After a great train ride, kids will want to take a twirl around on the park’s carousel. The 1950’s Allen Herschell carousel will give passengers a ride of a lifetime. The 30 painted ponies will capture the imagination of both adults and youngsters.

Once everyone has taken in the rides at the Chandler Dessert Breeze Railroad Park, it will be time to take a breather. A stroll over to the playground areas will allow children to burn off some more energy and give adults time to rest. The park has beautiful surroundings and a spectacular lake.

then, it is off the snack bar for some tasty treats. The food at the snack bar offers both fair prices and popular treats. It will be a hit with everyone, after a day of fun and excitement at the park.It is time get the car packed! The train at the Chandler Desert Breeze Railroad Park is about to pull out of the station. Head on down now!

Kiwanis Community Park

Kiwanis Recreation Center

6111 South All-American Way, Tempe, AZ 85283

Tempe Park

Kiwanis Community Park

5500 South Mill Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85283

Arizona is known for outdoor living! The Kiwanis Recreational Center and Park is a fun place to experience Arizona’s great outdoors.

the Kiwanis Community Park in Tempe is located at the corner of Mill Avenue and All-American Way. The 125 acre park was purchased in 1972 and was developed into a regional park through the help and funds of the Kiwanis. With over seven miles of paths and trails throughout the park, it is the perfect place to hike, run, or walk. Baseball/softball fields, horseshoe courts, basketball courts, playground, soccer fields, volleyball courts, and tennis courts are just some of the outdoor sporting areas available at the Tempe Kiwanis Community Park. If picnics and parties are more what your family has been searching for, then the armadas, tables, and grills will be a big plus. Restrooms are also available.

A large lake and lagoon make Kiwanis Community Park in Tempe a great destination. An average depth of five feet makes the water ideal for fishing. There is an urban fishing program offered through the Arizona Game and Fish Department. To find out more about fishing, contact the Department. Boating requirements are found through the City of Tempe. Boats on the lake and lagoon need a boating permit and proper floatation equipment. Boat rental is also offered at the Tempe Kiwanis Community Park.

the Kiwanis Recreational Center is owned and operated by the City of Tempe. It is a multi-use facility. Visitors to the Tempe Kiwanis Recreational Center will find a variety of amenities. One of the most popular spots in the center is the indoor wave pool and spiral slide. Children and adults have discovered that this is the place to be during the summer. There is also a full service snack bar. This is a great spot to go when you need a boost of energy. A multi-use gymnasium is an ideal area for exercise. Classrooms located inside the center are used for instruction. To learn more about what the Kiwanis Recreational Center and Community Park have to offer, contact the City of Tempe. Great weather with lots of sunshine and beautiful surroundings are all within minutes of downtown Phoenix. Get away, relax, and exercise at the Tempe Kiwanis Recreational Center and Community Park today!

Lost Dutchman State Park

Lost Dutchman State Park is home to the legend of the Lost Dutchman Mine. Since the legendary Lost Dutchman Mine has never been rediscovered, the Superstition Mountains draw adventurers seeking lost gold as well as recreational riches. Situated at the base of the Superstitions, the park is an ideal starting point; fall through spring, for exploration of the Superstition Wilderness. In addition, one of the Phoenix metro area’s most popular desert lakes, Canyon Lake, is only a 30-minute drive from this campground. Most visitors camp, picnic, or hike interpretive desert trails. Lost Dutchman park is five miles northeast of Apache Junction off State Route 88.

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