PHOENIX —Did you know that June is Great Outdoors Month? That means it’s the perfect time to explore the many amazing state parks throughout Arizona! The parks offer great summertime adventures, including cooler temps, amazing high-elevation hiking trails, and fun on the water.

If you can’t decide how to spend your summer outdoors, Arizona State Parks and Trails has some Great Outdoors Month suggestions! Check out some of these ideas, then plan your trip. Once you start, you may want to explore every park.

• Get out on the water: From boating to kayaking, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the water in an Arizona state park. Try something new and rent a kayak at Cattail Cove State Park. Or head south to Buckskin Mountain State Park and dip your toes in the water or float downriver on a tube. Even fishing counts, and Dead Horse Ranch State Park is the perfect fishing destination.
• Hit the trail: Summer doesn’t mean it’s too hot to go hiking – you just need to head north to cooler temperatures and higher elevations! Check out the trails at Lyman Lake State Park, where you can explore petroglyphs and amazing views. Or start early at Red Rock State Park and get a glimpse of sunrise over the world-famous rock formations.
• Plan a picnic: Pack a lunch or grab some local takeout and find a picnic table or grassy area at your nearest park. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area is a great spot to picnic in the pines. Or, pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful grounds before exploring the trails to the bridge at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park.
• Explore a museum: Head south to Tubac and explore the fun arts community, then make a stop at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park. You can wander the grounds to view the gardens, then refresh yourself in the air conditioning of several buildings with amazing interpretive displays and exhibits.

No matter how you want to enjoy the great outdoors this summer, Arizona State Parks and Trails has you covered. Get out on the trail or hit the water, relax in a hammock or watch the wildlife! Find a park and start your adventure!

Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our parks and through our partners.

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