Do you like to hike the trails through Arizona’s unbelievable scenic diversity? Ever spent time cooling in the waters beneath Tonto Natural Bridge on a warm summer day? Are you interested in the fascinating history of our state? Then you better clear your weekends and plan to get out and enjoy some of Arizona’s remaining state parks before they close.
Due to severe budget cuts by the state legislature, 13 of Arizona’s state parks will close in early 2010, leaving only 9 state parks open. Four state parks closed last year after even larger budget cuts. Did you do the math? Almost two thirds of Arizona’s state parks will be closed by early June 2010. (UPDATED 6/2/10 – See the update at the end of this post re extended dates for closure.)
The parks will be closed in phases. The schedule follows; click the links to read mor about the parks and plan your visits, and please leave me comments about your favorites and your memories.
Parks Closing on February 22, 2010
- Homolovi Ruins State Park (Winslow)
- Lyman Lake State Park (St. Johns)
- Riordan Mansion State Historic Park (Flagstaff)
Parks Closing on March 29, 2010
- Fort Verde State Historic Park (Camp Verde)
- Roper Lake State Park (Safford)
- Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park – One of the most visual and interactive of Arizona’s historical parks. Make sure you climb its watch towers and lock yourself in one of the adobe cells before its too late.- Tubac Presidio State Historic Park (south of Tucson)
Parks Closing on June 3, 2010
- Tonto Natural Bridge State Park (north of Payson) – I haven’t been here for many years, but I’ll definitely head up to experience its wonder with my wife and kids in late spring. It’s one of Arizona’s most magical places.
- Alamo Lake State Park (Wenden)
Lost Dutchman State Park (Apache Junction) – Holy cow. It’s almost unfathomable what we’re losing here if we lose access to Lost Dutchman. This is the gateway to popular Superstition Mountain hikes such as Siphon Draw and the Flatiron. Check out the moonlight hike on February 26 or one of the other guided hikes before this park closes.- Picacho Peak State Park – Hike the trails in this park in the spring when the land is blanketed with wildflowers. The 2-mile hike to the peak is arduous but rewards you with incredible views.
- Red Rock State Park (Sedona) – This scenic nature preserve is set along the banks of Oak Creek below Sedona. This is a great park for a stroll with younger kids; it’s shady, scenic, and cool. I had the pleasure to help with writing the interpretive displays in the environmental center back in the mid-90s.
UPDATED 6/2/10
Tomorrow was the date for many of the second round of closures, but according to a press release on the Arizona State Parks website, most of the parks have been temporarily spared from closure by extraordinary efforts from local communities and private donors. Check out the State Parks site for information and park schedules, and get out to hike these parks while you still can!
