Discover Another Side of Arizona

Explore 5 lesser-known state parks that just might become that “new detour” when travelling through the Southwestern U.S.

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Words by Steve Fennell

In the RV community, the term ‘escaping the crowds’ has long been the practice of outdoor enthusiasts well before the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are many popular attractions throughout Arizona, there are a number of lesser-known, less-populated state parks that are just as appealing, naturally exciting, and serve as great day - or even multi-day - destinations for Canadian Snowbirds.

Most of the state park campgrounds have a 14-day limit, but this is ample time to discover all that they have to offer. From freshwater lakes and rich history to celestial wonders, each park will provide new experiences to enhance southbound trips for seasons to come.

1. Lyman Lake State Park

Situated in Northeastern Arizona between Phoenix and Albuquerque, NM, Lyman Lake State Park spans 456 ha (1,200 ac) and sits at an elevation of 1,829 m (6,000 ft). Even though its location results in cooler temperatures during snowbird season, ranging from 12°C to 26°C (55°F to 78°F) from January to May, the park is open and welcomes RVers all year.

Layman Lake is the largest body of water in the region and serves as the park’s centrepiece. Die-hard anglers can hit the water anytime in an effort to catch walleye, channel catfish and largemouth bass but when warmer prevails, it’s a haven for swimming, wakeboarding and paddle sports.

Another highlight is its location. Arizona’s backcountry is an area worth discovering and the park provides access to some of the state’s untouched nature. Birding is common along the lake and keep an eye out for egrets, great blue herons, black ibis, sandpipers, curlew, and even Canadian geese, which also take refuge from the northern winters.

Other wildlife and more nature can be observed by hiking the Pointe and Buffalo trails, which range from 1.6 to 3.2 km (1 to 2 mi), or try and decipher the several petroglyphs on the .5 km (.25 mi) Peninsula Petroglyph Trail. For all the details of the trail system, guides can be downloaded at www.azstateparks.com/lyman-lake/things-to-do/trails.

Most importantly, the park is the perfect place to stay for a few nights between destinations (or even longer in late spring). In addition to the Visitors Center and park store, there are 56 campsites. Thirty-eight have hookups (13 include sewer) with 18 non-hookup sites. They can even accommodate rigs of most sizes.

Like many Arizona State Parks, the rates are reasonable. The park entrance fee is between $7 to $10 USD and sites range from $25 to $30 USD per night. An additional $15 USD is applied for second vehicles (e.g towed compacts).

*Ed note: Individual campsite fees vary from park to park and it’s best to contact the park of your choice before your visit.

2. Buckskin Mountain State Park

With regional temperatures ranging from a comfortable 19°C (67°F) in January, 21 to 26°C (70° to 78°F) in February and March, and well above 29°C (85°F) in April and May, Buckskin Mountain State Park is a classic RV winter destination.

Although more popular areas like Lake Havasu or Joshua Tree National Park are about an hour away, the park is located along the scenic Colorado River in Parker, AZ, with a variety of campground services and nearby attractions. In simple terms, there is always something to enjoy here during a stopover.

What makes the park very appealing to snowbirds is its scenic setting. Buckskin spans 674 ha (1,677 ac) along the California state line in western Arizona and where the river flows quietly under the shadows of the regional mountain range. With its picnic areas, showers/restroom facilities, and clean green spaces, the adjoining RV sites are just as accommodating.

There are 80 camping and RV sites that have water, power, WiFi, picnic tables and BBQ grills. They are even large for most lengths of RVs.

Once at a campsite, there’s easy access to all of the facilities and the many activities available to enjoy within the park. Hiking is popular with four trails ranging from 2.4 to 4 km (.5 to 2.3 mi) and they are a great way to explore this region of Arizona. A few offer excellent panoramic views of the Colorado River and the level of difficulty ranges from easy to moderate. Proper footwear is a must.

Of course, the river is another appealing part of the park and is a perfect way to cool off on warmer days. It’s also ideal to enjoy watersports including boating, kayaking and paddle boarding.

3. Roper Lake State Park

Just off U.S. Route 191 about two hours northeast of Tucson, Roper Lake State Park is at the base of Mt. Graham and has three campgrounds to meet many requirements for RVs.

For instance, the largest is Cottonwood Campground with 25 sites that offers the option of 20-, 30- or 50-amp power while the Hacienda Campground has 20 sites with 20- and 30-amp power. Although the Gila Campground only has five non-electric sites, it does offer eight cabins plus a 14-site group camping area for group events. There’s a 10-vehicle minimum and the fee is $180.00/night.

Nevertheless, all have fire rings, picnic tables and water with restrooms and shower facilities (with the exception of Gila). Maximum length is about 14 m (45 ft) with a choice of back-in or pull-through sites.

Also among its grounds are three day-use areas including East Mesa, West Hill and the Island, which is located on Roper Lake in the heart of the park. While the former has a safe, designated swimming area, all locations have group ramadas. Other park amenities include a dog park, sani-station, fishing dock, and more.

Even though Roper Lake spans just 13 ha (32 ac), it’s worth launching a powerboat or non-motorized craft at the East Hill boat launch to enjoy leisurely cruises or fishing for largemouth bass, trout, catfish and crappie. Nearby Riggs Flat Lake and the Cluff Ranch Wildlife Area are other popular haunts for anglers.

When essentials are needed like fuel or groceries, Roper Lake State Park is about 10 km (6 mi) from the community of Saffron. With its many services, the city has a few antique stores to browse, local cuisine to savour, and even a golf course to fit in a round.

4. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Visiting Arizona’s park system doesn’t come without learning about its rich history. Just south of Tucson is the 4.4 ha (11 ac) Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, which was created to preserve the grounds of the Presidio San Ignacio de Tubac built in 1752.

This is the second state park to be established in Arizona and commemorates the oldest fort and European community in the state. It will thrill history buffs and visitors alike with its historic sites and exhibits depicting ‘Spanish colonization, Mexican occupation and westward expansion.’

A day trip here should begin at the Spanish-influenced Visitor Center. You can gain some insight into the park’s brief history through a Presidio mural and model, historic maps, a video presentation and scale model of the Captain’s residence.

Some of the other popular buildings on its grounds include the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and Griffin Museum, The Tubac Presidio Archaeological Excavation Exhibit, The 1885 Territorial Schoolhouse (the second oldest schoolhouse in Arizona), Otero Hall and The Rojas House.

The collection of gardens among its grounds will be of special interest to nature lovers with its eclectic mix of regional plant life. Also, don’t be surprised to see sporadic wildlife including a variety of birds, javelinas, deer, and coyotes.

Although overnight accommodations are not available, there are campgrounds in the immediate area or perhaps visit Patagonia Lake State Park, approximately 40 minutes southeast.

5. Oracle State Park

Another day-use area, Oracle State Park is a preserved 1610 ha (4,000 ac) wildlife refuge located along the Catalina Mountains, about one hour north of Tucson and two hours south of Phoenix.

To explore its diverse terrain of rolling hills, vast desert, and expansive grasslands, the park has 39 km (24 mi) of multi-use trails that range from easy to moderate. If you’re a serious birder, be sure to keep an eye out for cardinals, Gambel’s quail, Cooper’s hawk, scrub jay, or great horned owls. This year, the park hosts its Audubon Guided Bird Walks held on the first two Fridays of each month from November through to April. Reservations are required.

A big attraction, however, is its dark sky, which contrasts against a sea of brilliant stars. Designated as an International Dark Sky Park in 2014, the park offers opportunities to stay around well after night falls to enjoy a glimmering showcase of this celestial wonder. There are even scheduled stargazing events held throughout the year. Be sure to visit www.azstateparks.com for scheduled dates and times.

Although Oracle is established as a day-use area, some options for accommodations can be found at nearby Picacho or Catalina state parks.

While there are several parks and additional natural attractions to visit in Arizona, all of these destinations will provide new experiences that truly define the Grand Canyon State and further create more memories during the snowbird season.

For more information about these state parks, campground fees, or to make an online reservation, visit www.azstateparks.com.