PHOENIX –  Memorial Day is the last three-day weekend for awhile, so make the best of it and head out to one of Arizona’s fabulous state parks. Whether you take several day trips or just have one adventure, there is plenty to help you ease into summer.

• For amazing views, cooler weather, and a chance to learn about the Hopi culture, visit Homolovi State Park near Winslow, right along I-40. The park has RV and tent camping spots, plus night skies you can enjoy from the Winslow Homolovi Observatory. Take a hike along one of the trails and see reminders of those who came before you, or explore the park museum with exhibits explaining the archeology of the ancient people of Homolovi.
• Take a drive to Payson to experience the beauty of Tonto Natural Bridge State Park. Picnic on the grounds, then hike down to see the bridge from a new perspective! Javelina and deer frequently visit, and while you’re nestled in the valley enjoying the sights, you may forget there are cities to go back to.
• Oracle State Park is a hidden gem just north of Tucson. The park has 24 miles of hiking trails, but sits at 4,500’ elevation, making it much cooler than Tucson or the Phoenix metro area. Head out early to try out the variety of trails, then cool off in 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, so you can also stay late to enjoy the view.
• Get away to the south and visit Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, Arizona’s very first state park. The museum buildings showcase a variety of artifacts and history about the area, including early Native American archaeological and ethnographic collections, Spanish Colonial and missions, mining, ranching, Civil War, Arizona Territorial period, and the original Washington printing press that printed Arizona’s first newspaper in 1859. Escape the summer heat in the Phoenix area and head south to this artistic town.

Have you explored all the opportunities to swim, hike, fish, boat, camp, stay in a cabin, or just relax in the great outdoors? Plan your trip to one of the more than 30 amazing Arizona state parks for your Memorial Day adventure. Start now by visiting AZState Parks.com/Find-A-Park. Remember, campsites can be booked up to one year in advance, so plan your Memorial Day weekend 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