Trying New Things
Find Yourself Outside
What if you weren’t raised in a family that did a lot of outdoor activities or is accustomed to trying new things? What if you've never been much of an outdoor person or even have experience doing things outside? Taking chances on something you're not familiar with can be scary, but often the reward is worth the initial apprehension!
You hear people talking about spending time in the “great outdoors,” and you've decided to give it a try...but what is there to DO once you’re out there? Even if you wanted to explore Arizona's beautiful outdoor places, you aren’t sure where to start or where to go, and you’re worried it might end up costing a lot of money or take skills you don’t have.
Arizona State Parks and Trails is a great place to start, and here’s why: Not only do the parks offer clean, maintained, beautiful spaces with plenty of helpful on-site rangers (and restrooms!), but there are activities built right in – activities that don’t take a lot of experience or skill, that you can build on and learn more about. Plus, many of the parks host events that can help you get acclimated or even meet other people with similar interests.
The benefits of getting outside are huge. There are myriad studies about how much being outside and exercising can benefit us by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure and improving heart rate. Sunlight raises serotonin levels and can give you a boost vitamin D, which contributes to a stronger immune system. Spending time outdoors may help us sleep better by helping set our sleep cycle, and it can improve focus and concentration.
But knowing that doesn’t help get you started. It can be scary and overwhelming to try to figure out where to start and what to try first. Take the first step today and think about what you would like to do or see while you’re outdoors.
What are you interested in?
You want to start hiking.
First, think about your current physical fitness level. You may not be ready to tackle the most difficult trail we have, but you can choose from a variety of difficulty levels that will be most beneficial (and enjoyable!) to you. Maybe you’re in great shape but would like to check out birds or wildlife. Maybe you’re interested in native plants and how to identify them. If you’re tired of the gym and want something challenging that will make you sweat – or to cross something off your bucket list, here’s a great resource for choosing your trail.
Before you head out, make sure you have what you need. Luckily, the necessary equipment for hiking is pretty minimal, but you still need to be prepared, especially if you’re new to hiking. Check out this page for tips, tools, and advice on what to carry. Remember, no matter what the weather is, you need to take water with you! There are no water fountains on any of the state park trails. Water is crucial to your hike, and you need to take enough to get you through the hike – you’ll need water on the return trip too. During your hike, once you are halfway done with your water, NOT THE TRAIL, you need to turn around and head back.
You want to try camping.
We have two great ways to ease into camping if you are new to it and don’t have an RV. The first is through a fun program called Family Campout. This program teaches you how to camp, and we provide the equipment. Family Campouts are held at various parks through the spring and fall months, and each weekend includes an activity and lessons on how to be successful next time. Check out the Family Campout page for more info and registration information.
Remember that camping at an Arizona state park means you will have access to clean restrooms and showers, plus rangers on site and campground hosts to help you feel comfortable. We also offer many tips and ways to help you get started. Check out our Camping Checklist to learn what to pack and how to prepare!
Try camping “light” by reserving a camping cabin! Staying in a cabin means that you don’t have to set up (or buy) a tent, and you can choose to take a sleeping bag or bed linens. Cabins make it easy to adjust to whatever weather (they are heated and cooled), and your trip won’t be ruined if there’s a little rain. Eight parks have great camping cabins to get you started!
You want to learn something new.
Whether you’re interested in viewing the night sky, identifying wildlife or birds in Arizona, learning about native plants and the different ecosystems here, or just want to know about Arizona’s cultural history, head out to the parks! Not only are there great events held at parks throughout the state, each offering something different, but there are also eight historic state parks to learn in and many other parks with historical features or cultural trails.
Share the gift of outdoor adventure! Passes and gift cards make a great gift for anyone interested in learning more about the outdoors.
Oracle and Kartchner Caverns state parks are both International Dark Sky Parks, which means they have been designated to meet the standards for great night sky viewing, and both parks (and others) host Star Parties with telescopes and experts to help you understand what you see.
