PHOENIX – Plan your spring break getaway now, and enjoy all that Arizona has to offer! Take a week or a weekend to check out the great outdoors and experience beaches, wildflowers, sunsets and amazing hikes off the beaten path.

Because there is so much to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to our top five spring break state park destinations. All you need to do is pack up the car, hit the road, and explore!

1. Arizona’s West Coast: The Colorado River is a popular spring break destination, but we have some hidden gems to show you! Swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking are all options at the river parks, with camping on the shore and sandy beaches! Pick a campsite at Buckskin Mountain, Cattail Cove, or River Island state park for your break.

2. North-Central Arizona: For cool spring weather, head up to Dead Horse Ranch State Park for RV and tent camping, plus awesome camping cabins right on the Verde River. From there, explore nearby historic parks or venture north to Slide Rock and Red Rock state parks, to soak in the sun and hike in the famous red rocks.

3. Patagonia Lake State Park: If you’ve never visited this park, you’re in for a treat! Patagonia Lake sits nestled in rolling mountains of wildflowers and cactus, with a gorgeous beach, boat-in campsites, camping cabins with excellent sunset views, and plenty of wildlife watching. It’s the perfect place to explore.

4. Picacho Peak State Park: March is peak wildflower season, and with the rain and snow the state has gotten over the winter, Picacho Peak is alive with color. Test your hiking skills with a strenuous expedition to the top of the peak via Hunter Trail. Your reward will be a sprawling view in all directions.

5. Kartchner Caverns State Park: You may have heard of the famous caves here, but did you know there is also a campground – with cabins, hiking trails, and an internationally recognized dark sky for stargazing? Reserve a campsite and stay for awhile, then check out park activities, book your cave tour, and have an amazing time!

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 Program, 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