Arizona State Parks and Trails announces the spring 2026 locations for its Arizona Family Campout Program, with registration opening today, January 21, 2026.

The award-winning program introduces families with little to no camping experience to outdoor recreation through weekend campouts at state parks across Arizona. The 2026 spring locations include Alamo Lake, Catalina, Patagonia Lake, Red Rock, Rockin' River Ranch, River Island, and Lyman Lake state parks. This will be the first opportunity for participants to camp at Rockin' River Ranch, which opened in February 2024 and is typically only open for day use.

Participants receive all necessary camping equipment, including tents, sleeping pads, camp chairs, stoves, and lanterns. Park rangers provide instruction on camping safety and lead activities such as fishing, archery, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and geocaching, with all activity gear provided.

"Our goal with this program is to help more families spend time in the outdoors in a way that's safe, protects our public lands, and fosters stewardship for the next generation," said Bob Broscheid, executive director of Arizona State Parks and Trails. "When kids get out in nature with their parents and learn outdoor skills like camping, they're more likely to carry that forward—raising their own children to get outside, and so on. Connecting people with the outdoors today and for generations to come is truly the heart of our mission, and we couldn't be more proud to offer this life-changing program."

Each campout includes a conservation project, such as litter cleanup or native tree planting, designed to instill environmental stewardship in participating families.

The program costs $90 for a family of four, with additional family members at $5 per person. Children must be at least 6 years old to participate. Accessible campouts are available for people with disabilities. Additional program details and registration information are available at AZStateParks.com/Family.

In 2024, the Arizona Family Campout Program received an Award of Distinction for Environmental Education and Communication from Arizona Forward.

Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.

For information about the more than 30 Arizona state parks and natural areas, the trails and Off-Highway Vehicle programs and State Historic Preservation Office, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com.

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov.