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.
Star Party at Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park
October - April Varies by Date
Catalina State Park’s dark skies are ideal for astronomical observation; imagine what you can see through a telescope!
Astronomers from the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) will be on site with their telescopes to show you the cosmos and answer your questions. Bring a jacket, warm drinks, and red light if you have one to preserve your night vision. Meet at the trailhead parking lot located 1.5-miles north of the ranger station at the end of the park road; follow signs for "trailhead." More info about Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association can be found at: TucsonAstronomy.org
Event is free with park entrance fee.
Event Dates
- Friday, October 10th, 2025 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday, December 13th, 2025 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday, February 7th, 2026 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Friday, April 17th, 2026 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
MORE EVENTS
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Saturdays, July 5 - September 27
Monsoon Magic
Learn about monsoon meteorology and see real animals and desert plants that thrive with the seasonal rain.
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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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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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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.
