PHOENIX – In Arizona, summer weather lasts longer, which means you can spend more time in the parks – including over Labor Day weekend. Check out these amazing ways to wrap up the summer in outdoor style.

• Take a trip to north-eastern Arizona and head to Lyman Lake State Park. This park offers thrilling water activities, stunning hikes with a peek into history, and campsites and cabins for all types of outdoor adventure. Bring your waterskis or kayak to enjoy the lake, then head out on the Petroglyph Trail to get an overview of the water.
• If a day trip is more your weekend style, head north to Red Rock State Park, where abundant views, plenty of trails, and the beauty of Oak Creek can refresh your state of mind for the weeks ahead. Red Rock is a great place to see wildlife, check out bird species, or join in on the daily guided nature walks or Saturday bird walk.
• Oracle State Park is a stunning park just north of Tucson. With 24 miles of hiking trails, and a cool 4,500’ elevation, you can head out early to try out the variety of trails, then visit the historic Kannally Ranch House while you learn about 1900s ranchers and artisans. The park is one of two International Dark Sky Parks in the system and offers after-hours viewing of the night sky by calling the park before 3 p.m.
• Spend more time on the water at Buckskin Mountain State Park along the Colorado River. This laid back park offers great hiking trails, a popular campground with sites near the river, and access to all the water activities you can dream of. Try kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or just floating down the river if you don’t have a boat. This park is perfect year-round, but makes a great way to relax before summer ends.

From museums to mountain biking, Arizona’s state parks have activities for families, friends, and lone adventurers. Take some time to get outdoors and recharge with nature. Plan your trip to one of the more than 30 amazing Arizona state parks by visiting AZState Parks.com/Find-A-Park. Remember, campsites can be booked up to one year in advance, so plan your camping trip for 2024 now!

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 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