Arizona250 Celebration at the Historic San Rafael Ranch

San Rafael State Natural Area

Saturday, April 11, 2026   10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

A photo of a historic house set in a grassy area with antique farming equipment in the foreground. Includes a graphic overlay "Outdoors250."

Join us for a special Arizona250 celebration at San Rafael Ranch Historic District, located within the San Rafael State Natural Area.

This commemorative event invites the public to experience one of Arizona’s most significant historic ranching sites while celebrating Arizona’s rich heritage, landscapes, and communities. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the historic ranch house, learn about the San Rafael Valley’s ranching and conservation legacy, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding short-grass prairie. Connect with Arizona’s past while supporting the preservation of this remarkable place for future generations!

Self guided ranch house tours and educational displays will be offered throughout the day. A dedication of property as an Important Bird Area will be held at 10 a.m.

Please register for this event online. No physical tickets will be provided; those who register will be on the event guest list.

Register here

This event is brought to you by the Friends of San Rafael Valley and Arizona State Parks and Trails. Stay tuned for updates on programming offered and educational partners joining the celebration.

Know before you go! This location is in a remote area with no amenities, approximately 2 hours south of Tucson, east of Patagonia, Arizona. Plan ahead by bringing plenty of drinking water and fuel. Drive only on designated motor vehicle routes (includes dirt road surface suitable for most vehicles in regular conditions). See an area map and additional information from the Patagonia Mountains and the San Rafael Valley Recreation Opportunity Guide by the USFS - Coronado National Forest.

This is an Outdoors250 event: a proud part of America250, a nationwide initiative commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and reflecting on our shared history, values, and future. Learn more at AZStateParks.com/Outdoors250.

Event Offerings

International Bird Area dedication at 10 a.m.
Self-guided ranch house tours 
Educational displays
Guided bird walks
Live music by Andy Hersey and Bruce Andre
Food available for purchase by Las Vigas Steak Ranch and Food Truck

Educational Partners

4-H Youth Development - UA Cooperative Extension
Arizona Antelope Foundation
Arizona Game and Fish Department
Arizona Land and Water Trust
Audubon Southwest
Bowman Stradling Museum
Empire Ranch Foundation
Friends of San Rafael Valley
Mescal Movie Set
Pimeria Alta Historical Society
Rio Rico Historical Society
Santa Cruz Valley National Heritage Area
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
Tucson Bird Alliance
USFS — Coronado National Forest and special guest, Smokey Bear