Is your love of the outdoors ready to take flight into a new era? Grab your binoculars and a field guide — we're going birding!

Birding is a wonderful way to spend time in nature for so many reasons. It's an activity everyone can enjoy, regardless of age, ability, or access to the outdoors. Look out a window, and you’re birding! To enrich your experience, go with friends, family, or fellow bird enthusiasts. You'll be able to help one another spot and identify more species, plus, you'll get the benefit of connecting with others. 

Being with others in nature is already a feel-good activity, but birding can give you an extra boost because of the reward of “the chase.” Spotting a bird gives you an instant feeling of victory. Start identifying birds, and the gratifying feeling becomes addictive in the best way!

Beyond being a feel-good activity you can do with others, birding is an excellent opportunity to practice mindfulness. As you focus on the sights and sounds that surround you, looking and listening for birds, you're naturally disconnected from the distractions of busy, everyday life.

If you're convinced and ready to give birding a try, get started with these exciting activities in Arizona's state parks!

Birding250

Go birding and win awesome prizes by signing up for Birding250. Download the free Merlin BirdID app, enter our prize drawing, and start exploring! Birding250 is part of our celebration of America's 250th anniversary and our shared connection to the outdoors. Learn more about this initiative and enter the prize drawing.

State Park Bird Walks

Our popular bird walks are designed for birders of all levels to enjoy! Many state parks are located within Important Bird Areas (IBA) designated by the Audubon Society, making them rich in resources that attract a wide variety of species.

On a state park bird walk, you'll meet your guide and other participants at a predetermined location before departing on a walk down a relatively easy trail through excellent bird habitat. Your guide will be familiar with local birds and their habitats, so feel free to ask questions during this fun, interactive birding experience! Learn more about the birds you can see, then plan your visit to a park hosting popular winter birding events below.

Red Rock State Park | Patagonia Lake | Catalina State Park | Lost Dutchman State Park