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Parking is only allowed in designated parking spots. Please observe all rules distributed by rangers when entering the park.
Use caution as flooding is possible.
Monsoon Magic
Catalina State Park
Saturdays, July 5 - September 27 7-9 a.m.
Did you know Arizona actually has five seasons? The thunderstorms of Tucson’s monsoon have the power to transform the Sonoran Desert during Arizona’s fifth season: the wet summer!
Monsoon Magic is a mini-nature exhibit where you’ll learn about the wildlife and meteorology of the southwest’s summer rains.
Come anytime between 7-9 a.m.! Follow signs for "Trailhead" and meet at the picnic area near the restrooms.
MORE EVENTS
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First and Third Friday of the Month
Catalina Nights
Experience Catalina State Park’s desert wildlife and dark skies with a one-mile, guided hike on the Nature Trail. Registration required.
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Sunday, September 21
Everyone Runs Catalina State Park Trail Race
One of Arizona's finest trail races. Catalina State Park features easy to manage trails and unreal mountain views! Come join the fun that is Everyone Runs!
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October 4, 2025
Music in the Mountains Concert Series: Austin Owen
Austin Owen performing at Catalina State Park an eclectic mix of music ranging from R&B to Bossa nova!
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First and third Mondays, October through April
Catalina State Park - Past, Present, Future
Join one of our park volunteers to explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today, and get a sneak peek of exciting upgrades planned.
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October - April
Star Party at Catalina State Park
Imagine what you can see with telescopes provided by the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association at Catalina State Park! Join us for an exciting, educational Star Party!
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Second and fourth Mondays (Oct.-April)
Romero Site Interpretive Hike
Join our local interpretive guides for a hike to the Romero Ruins. With this program, you'll walk through one thousand years of Hohokam history in 90 minutes.
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Saturdays - Starting October 18 - April
Saturday Nature Program
Learn about and see many reptiles that live naturally in the Sonoran Desert. Listen to our experts talk about the creatures and their adaptions to survive in the desert.
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Sundays - check dates in description
Sunday Geology Walk at Catalina
How were the Santa Catalina Mountains formed? What are some of the different rocks in the park? Learn about the geology of the park with experienced geologist, Karen.
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Sundays and Wednesday, beginning October 19
Guided Bird Walks at Catalina
Experienced bird guides lead this bird walk. They will help you spot and identify various birds that live and visit the park. Novices, seasoned birders, and every experience level of birder will enjoy this event.
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November 1, 2025
Music in the Mountains Concert Series: Wendy Sweet
Join us for our concert series featuring Wendy Sweet!
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Saturdays: Nov 1 | Dec 6 | Jan 3 | Feb 7 | Mar 7 | Apr 4
Buffel Slayers
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard!
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Sunday, November 9, 2025
Everyone Runs 10.6 & 5.3 Mile Trail Run and 5k
Join Everyone Runs for a fantastic experience at Catalina State Park. They pride themselves in events that really are for everyone - runners, walkers, and differently-abled at road runs!
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December 6, 2025
Music in the Mountains Concert Series: Oro Valley Jazz Band
Join us for our concert series for an evening of smooth jazz!
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December 20, 2025
Music in the Mountains Concert Series: Old Arizona Brass Band
Join us for our concert series featuring the Old Arizona Brass Band.
