Arizona’s state parks have something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike through ponderosa pine forests, fish in pristine lakes and camp in the desert, while history buffs can explore a territorial prison or 19th-century military fort—and that’s just for starters. Discover the many different ways to experience Arizona’s diverse state parks with these quick ideas. BY TERESA BITLER STATE PARKS Lake Havasu State Park, Lake Havasu City ADVENTURES IN ARIZONA’S HAVE A BEACH DAY. The sandy shores of Lake Havasu State Park attract sun worshippers and water sport enthusiasts from across the state and neighboring California. Boaters can launch their watercraft from one of five boat ramps in the park, while swimmers can cool off in the designated area near the beach. Plan to spend a few days in one of the park’s new air-conditioned cabins, so you'll have plenty of time to explore Lake Havasu City and even see the world-famous London Bridge, which in 1967 was dismantled and relocated from its original location over the Thames River. SEE A NATURAL WONDER. The world’s largest natural travertine bridge—and one of the few natural bridges on Earth not made of sandstone or limestone—can be seen from four viewpoints along a paved walkway at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park near Pine. When all four trails are open, you can hike to its base 183 feet below and walk through its nearly 400-foot tunnel. At the Goodfellow Lodge above the bridge, see exhibits on the area’s prehistoric inhabitants. Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Pine ARIZONA FAMILY CAMPOUT New to camping? Bring the whole family to this program series held at state parks throughout the state, where you’ll learn how to pitch a tent, go on a guided hike, drop in a fishing line, try your hand at archery, help out with service projects and pick up safety tips along the way. azstateparks.com/family-camp 8 VISITARIZONA.COM TOP TO BOTTOM: AOT; ADOBE STOCK/JASON YODER MARVEL AT ANCIENT RUINS AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES. More than 300 archaeologi-cal sites, including four major 14th-century pueblos, dot the semi-desert grasslands of Homolovi State Park , just 3 miles northeast of downtown Winslow. You can explore two of those sites, one containing an estimated 1,200 to 2,000 rooms, and learn about their inhabitants, the ancestors of today’s Hopi people, through exhibits at the visitor center. After dark, gaze at celestial wonders through telescopes at the park’s observatory. CAMP ON THE COLORADO RIVER. Located on the Colorado River between Parker Dam and Headgate Dam, Buckskin Mountain State Park offers visitors more than just the opportunity to boat, fish, swim and hike. It’s one of the best in the state for riverfront camping. Tent and RV campers can reserve one of 80 spots, including several near the water, for stays of up to 14 days. Buckskin Mountain’s campground has showers and restrooms, electric hookups, free Wi-Fi and great views.
Arizona Official State Travel Guide Arizona 2020-21: Page 8
