Arizona Official State Travel Guide - Arizona 2024-25

From jet skiing across sprawling lakes to boating into secluded campsites, Arizona’s state parks offer a wealth of water fun for all types of adventurers.

Spend a day at Arizona’s newest state park, Rockin’ River Ranch State Park. A former ranch turned day-use park, this gem in Camp Verde is at the confluence of West Clear Creek and the Verde River — meaning you’ll find a lush habitat for birds and wildlife, scenic riverfront trails and excellent fishing.

For even more Verde River views, Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood offers a peaceful escape. Whether you camp overnight or simply use the day-use areas, enjoy lush riparian valleys lined with cottonwood and willow trees, drop a fishing line into one of the three lagoons, and keep an eye out for wildlife and birds — including a pair of nesting bald eagles.

Hoping for something with high-speed thrills and catching some airtime? Hit the water at Lyman Lake State Park in St. Johns in northeastern Arizona. The 1,500- acre snowmelt-fed lake has no size restrictions on boats, making it a prime spot for waterskiing, wakeboarding and cruising.

Along the Arizona-California border in Lake Havasu City, Lake Havasu State Park is another haven for allout water fun. White-sand beaches beckon sunbathers and families to lounge along the Colorado River, and all types of watercraft are welcome on the waters. Didn’t BYOBoat? Rent one from the on-site concessionaire, Wet Monkey Powersport Rentals. Lake Havasu also is known for its exceptional fishing, keeping anglers busy reeling in largemouth, smallmouth and striped bass. 

In nearby Parker, River Island State Park marries dramatic desert landscapes and serene riverfront views. Score one of the beachfront tent campsites overlooking the Colorado River to stay just steps from swimming and boating in a calm cove.

Or, venture to an even calmer oasis at Patagonia Lake State Park in southern Arizona’s Patagonia, where 12 boat-in campsites (accessible only by boat) offer a quiet waterfront experience with incredible natural beauty. The park also offers developed campsites, as well as camping cabins with lake views.

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Get the mobile-exclusive digital passport to explore the interactive map, check-in at state parks and enter to win prizes. The more parks you visit, the more chances you have to win. Scan the QR code to get your passport.