PHOENIX – Kartchner Caverns State Park invites families, nature lovers, and conservation enthusiasts to its annual Bat Fest. The family-friendly event on Saturday, October 24 is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of bats and features a variety of activities, crafts, book readings for kids, and educational presentations.

Arizona is home to 28 species of bats. Bats are a primary nocturnal predator of insects and a key pollinator of many desert plants. Bat Fest will help event-goers learn more about how these mammals contribute to a healthy ecosystem and the work being done in our state to protect their habitat. Special presentations from bat biologists and experts from various organizations will also be featured.

Admission is free with the standard park entry fee of $20 per vehicle (2-4 adults) and all ages are welcome to attend. Cave tours are not included in the Bat Fest activities and advance reservations are recommended for those who wish to take a cave tour. Campground and camping cabin reservations are available online for those who wish to extend their trip beyond the festival. For more information about the event, please visit AZStateParks.com/Kartchner.

WHAT: Bat Festival

WHERE: Kartchner Caverns State Park, 2980 S Highway 90, Benson, Ariz.

WHEN: Saturday, October 24, 2026, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

WHY: Celebrate bats and their important role in our ecosystem

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

For information about Arizona State Parks and the many recreational, historical and cultural programs, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com. 

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