Dead Horse Ranch State Park, Cottonwood Kartchner Caverns State Park, Benson FALL Pleasant weather and dazzling colors signal autumn’s arrival. Spend a day at Arizona’s newest state park, Rockin’ River Ranch State Park in Camp Verde. A former ranch turned day-use park open Fridays through Sundays, this gem 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. Bask in golden hues of fall foliage as the cottonwood trees turn to a vivid yellow, painting the landscape with seasonal splendor. 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, stroll along 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. This park offers wheelchair-accessible fishing piers and camping cabins. WINTER During cooler winter weather, stay cozy with an indoor tour at Jerome State Historic Park as you explore the grand rooms of the Douglas Mansion, once home to mining mogul James S. Douglas, owner of Little Daisy Mine. You’ll learn about the history of Jerome, copper mining and the Douglas family through photographs, artifacts, a video and a 3D model of the town and its mines. Or enjoy the consistently warm and humid environment of a cave at Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson, where you’ll find an underground wonderland of stalactites, brushite moonmilk, “birds nest” needle quartz and Arizona’s tallest column. The campground offers RV back-in and pull-through sites with electric hook-ups and water, and wheelchair-accessible camping cabins are also available. HIT THE ROAD: COUNT THE PARKS Scan the QR code for the free mobile passport and interactive map to 50+ AZ park locations. Check in along the way to win prizes. ALL PHOTOS: ARIZONA STATE PARKS AND TRAILS 13
Arizona Official State Travel Guide Arizona 2025-26: Page 13
