PHOENIX – Registration will open on February 12, 2025 for spring sessions of the award-winning Arizona Family Campout program. This amazing program teaches camping and outdoor recreation basics with all equipment provided. Register here!

The Arizona Family Campout program provides a unique, all-inclusive opportunity for families to experience camping over a weekend in Arizona’s state parks. The agency supplies all necessary camping equipment—including tents, sleeping mats, lanterns, camp stoves, and camp chairs—while families learn essential camping skills like tent assembly and campfire safety. Participants will also have the chance to try a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, archery, fishing, and mountain biking. Each event includes a service project that promotes conservation and preservation, encouraging families to recreate responsibly and steward Arizona’s public lands.

Since launching in 2012, the program has conducted 189 campouts, serving 1,657 families. In 2024, the program received an Award of Distinction for Environmental Education & Communication from Arizona Forward, highlighting its positive impact on Arizonans and conservation efforts.

Now, thanks to proposed funding in Governor Katie Hobbs’  FY2026 Executive Budget, the popular program may be able to expand and accommodate more campers than ever, giving more people the chance to learn about the great outdoors and how to be responsible stewards of outdoor spaces.

The Governor’s Executive Budget includes a proposal for $217,200 in ongoing funding and $231,000 in one-time funding from the State Parks Revenue Fund to expand the Arizona Family Campout program. “We are thrilled to see this valuable program for Arizona’s families receive support in this year’s Executive Budget,” said Bob Broscheid, executive director of Arizona State Parks and Trails. “Expanding the program will provide additional opportunities for families to experience and learn about camping and outdoor activities while encouraging more people to visit state parks.”

The proposed funding will add two new staff positions and allow for the purchase of additional camping equipment. This expansion will double the number of annual campouts and increase the maximum number of participating families.

One family who attended a 2024 campout at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area shared their experience: “This was our first camping trip as a family, and I can confidently say it will be a cherished memory for years to come. Your patience in explaining everything to our kids was truly appreciated.”

This spring’s first campout will be held at Alamo Lake State Park March 7-9 and is a special two-night event to allow more time to learn about fishing. Campouts at parks such as River Island on the Colorado River, Catalina State Park near Tucson, and Red Rock State Park in Sedona will round out the season, with activities specific to each park. Additional program details and registration information are available at AZStateParks.com/Family.

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.