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The Complete Guide to the Best Parks to Visit in Phoenix

The Complete Guide to the Best Parks to Visit in Phoenix

Are you tired of the scorching heat in Phoenix and looking for a refreshing escape? Or are thrill-seekers looking for a challenging hike with stunning views? 

Luckily, Phoenix has a variety of parks that cater to everyone’s preferences. In this guide, we’ll unveil the best parks in Phoenix, making your search for the perfect outdoor activity a breeze. 

Keep reading to discover the best parks in Phoenix, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a relaxation seeker, or a family on the move!

1. Camelback Mountain Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/camelback-mountain

Address: 6131 Phoenix, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253, United States

Contact details: +16025345867

Operating hours: 24/7

Camelback Mountain Park is known for two challenging hiking trails, Echo Canyon and Cholla, that lead you to a summit with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Phoenix Valley.  

It’s also a haven for desert wildlife enthusiasts. Look for native species like desert tortoises, Chuckwalla lizards, and cottontail rabbits or Sonoran plant life like saguaro cacti, prickly pear cacti, and mesquite trees dotting the landscape. 

Pro tip:
Aim for an early morning hike to avoid the scorching sun and make climbing more enjoyable. Conquer the Echo Canyon Trail for an unforgettable challenge and the most rewarding panoramic views from the summit.

2. Encanto Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/e-parks/encanto-park

Address: 2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States

Contact details: +16022618991

Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Encompassing 222 acres, Encanto Park has picnic areas to spread a blanket and enjoy a meal under the sunshine. The park also boasts a peaceful lagoon, perfect for a leisurely paddleboat ride.  

For the sporty types, there are tennis and basketball courts, a softball diamond, and even two public golf courses. Families must also visit the charming Enchanted Island amusement park, which features kid-friendly rides and carnival games.

Pro tip:
Take a ride on the historic Encanto Carousel. This beautifully restored carousel is a park centerpiece and a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. 

3. Papago Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/papago-park

Address: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

Contact details: +16024955458

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Papago Park offers a stunning desert landscape with iconic red buttes and scenic trails.  These trails are perfect for a leisurely hike or bike ride, with options ranging from easy paths to moderate inclines.  

It also boasts the Phoenix Zoo, a world-class attraction showcasing amazing animals, and the Desert Botanical Garden, featuring a vast collection of desert plants and cacti. Papago Park has the Hole-in-the-Rock, a dwelling carved into a massive rock face.

Pro tip:
Plan your visit for the cooler morning or evening hours, especially during the summer months. Hike to the top of a butte for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire park and the surrounding Phoenix cityscape.  

4. Freestone Park

Website: https://www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation/parks-information/parks/freestone-park

Address: 1045 E Juniper Ave, Gilbert, AZ 85234, United States

Contact details: +14805036200

Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM

Freestone Park is a fantastic park for all ages, with 88 acres of space. The Freestone Railroad, featuring a miniature train, antique carousel, and mini Ferris wheel, is a delightful trip back in time for children. 

The park also has multiple playgrounds, including one that is wheelchair accessible, basketball, volleyball, and tennis courts. It also has batting cages and a skate park for those who want to test their skills.

Pro tip:
Since the park is quite large, consider renting a Surrey bike to cruise around the park with your family. Take a ride on the Freestone Railroad, a charming Phoenix-area classic perfect for all ages.

5. Tempe Beach Park

Website: https://www.tempe.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/176/3542

Address: 80 W Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85281, United States

Contact details: +14803505200

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Tempe Beach Park has a splash playground for kids and over five miles of paths and trails for running, biking, or walking. Picnic areas with ramadas are also available for a relaxing afternoon in the park.

The park even boasts a baseball diamond, the Luis Gonzalez Arizona Diamondbacks Field of Dreams, for a touch of local baseball history. The park is also a central hub for water recreation on Tempe Town Lake, where you can kayak or paddleboard. 

Pro tip:
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Tempe Town Lake peacefully. It’s a great way to see the city skyline differently.

6. Desert Breeze Park

Website: https://desertbreezerr.com/

Address: 660 North Desert Breeze Blvd E, Chandler, AZ 85226, United States

Contact details: +14808936652

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Desert Breeze Park is a sprawling area with multiple playgrounds for the little ones to explore, a refreshing splash pad to cool off on hot Arizona days, and even a scenic lake. Sports enthusiasts can also enjoy baseball, softball, and volleyball courts.

What truly sets Desert Breeze Park apart is the Desert Breeze Railroad. This charming miniature train takes riders on a delightful journey around the park, offering a unique area perspective. 

Pro tip:
Since Phoenix weather can get scorching, plan your visit for the cooler morning or evening hours, especially if you have young children.

7. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Website: http://www.therailroadpark.com/

Address: 7301 E Indian Bend Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States

Contact details: +14803122312

Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM

The McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park is a 30-acre park haven for train enthusiasts of all ages. You can ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad, a 15-inch gauge miniature train that winds through the park. 

The 10,000-square-foot Model Railroad Building offers miniature railways. Train buffs will also want to visit the Scottsdale Railroad Museum, which is packed with railroad artifacts and exhibits that bring over 200 years of history to life. 

Pro tip:
Take a ride on the Paradise & Pacific Railroad. It’s the park’s signature attraction and a great way to see it differently.

8. Kiwanis Park

Website: https://www.tempe.gov/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/FacilityDirectory/120/3542?npage=2

Address: 5500 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85283, United States

Contact details: +14803505200

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM

Kiwanis Park is a 125-acre park with a serene 12-acre lake. You can rent kayaks, pedal boats, or even surrey bikes to explore the lake and enjoy the scenery. 

Kiwanis Park also houses the Kiwanis Recreation Center, a one-stop shop for family fun. It features an indoor wave pool with water slides, a batting cage to test your swing, and 15 tennis courts for a friendly match.

Pro tip:
Take a ride on the Cloud at Kiwanis Park. This innovative splash pad is a great way to cool off and have fun, especially for the kids.

9. Chaparral Park

Website: http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/parks/chaparral-park

Address: 5401 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States

Contact details: +14803122353

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Chaparral Park is a 100-acre park that offers something for everyone. One of the highlights is the stunning 12-acre lake, where you can go fishing for catfish, bass, and sunfish or rent a boat and enjoy a leisurely paddle on the water. 

This park features Arizona’s first playground, designated as a National Demonstration Site for accessibility practices. It also has a leash-free dog park where your furry friend can play with other pups.

Pro tip:
Plan your visit for the cooler morning or evening hours, especially during the hot Phoenix summer. Take the chance to explore the inclusive playground, a great place for kids of all abilities to have fun and socialize.

10. Sahuaro Ranch Park

Website: http://www.glendaleaz.com/parksandrecreation/sahuaroranchpark.cfm

Address: 9802 59th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85302, United States

Contact details: +16239302820

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Sahuaro Ranch Park offers a unique blend of history and recreation. You can explore the restored ranch buildings and gardens, learn about Arizona’s agricultural history, and enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a rose garden. 

The park also has peacocks that freely roam the grounds, adding a touch of whimsy to your visit. There’s also a dog park for your furry friend and walking paths where you can take in the desert scenery.

Pro tip:
Plan your visit for spring when the rose garden is in bloom to experience the park’s fragrant beauty. You can also take a guided tour of the historic ranch buildings to learn about the Bartlett family and the ranch’s history.

11. Margaret T. Hance Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/h-parks/hance

Address: 67 W Culver St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

Contact details: +16025342406

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Margaret T. Hance Park is a vibrant 32-acre urban oasis named after Phoenix’s first female mayor, Margaret Hance. It sits atop the Papago Freeway Tunnel, transforming what could have been wasted space into a flourishing green haven.

Here, you can take a stroll amidst the calming greenery, explore the exquisite Japanese Friendship Garden with its serene ponds and meticulously maintained landscapes, or immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at the Irish Cultural Center. 

Pro tip:
Pack a picnic basket and blanket to enjoy a relaxing lunch under a tree. Take advantage of the breathtaking views of the Phoenix skyline, especially during sunset, when the city lights paint a magical panorama.

12. Moon Valley Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/m-parks

Address: 502 W Coral Gables Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85023, United States

Contact details: +16022626696

Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM

Moon Valley Park boasts a fantastic playground divided into sections for toddlers and older kids. It features all the classics: swings, slides, monkey bars, and a new web-like climbing structure. 

While it has enough play equipment to entertain the kids for hours, it isn’t overrun with crowds. Plus, with picnic areas, restrooms, and even grills available, it’s perfect for a fun-filled afternoon under the Phoenix sun.

Pro tip:
Since Phoenix can get scorching hot, especially in the summer, plan your visit for the cooler morning or evening hours. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal with the family under the shade of trees after the kids have worn themselves on the playground.

13. Steele Indian School Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/s-parks/steele-indian-school

Address: 300 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States

Contact details: +16024950935

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Steele Indian School Park offers a unique blend of history, recreation, and green space, making it a great destination in Phoenix. The park occupies 72 acres and features grassy areas, a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, and a running trail.

It was built on the grounds of the former Phoenix Indian School, a boarding school for Native American children. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, like the Arizona Strong Beer Festival and Phoenix Pride, making it a vibrant community hub.

Pro tip:
Take a moment to explore the park’s historical features. Look for the Memorial Hall, a building from the original school, and the cistern with interpretive columns that detail the site’s past. 

14. South Mountain Park

Website: http://phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/south/index.html

Address: 10919 S Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States

Contact details: +16024955458

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Encompassing over 16,000 acres, South Mountain Park is the largest municipal park in the United States. It’s a vast area with scenic mountains, diverse desert flora and fauna, and many outdoor activities. 

Visitors can explore the petroglyphs left behind by the Hohokam people. Phoenix sprawls out from the base of South Mountain Park, which has several high points, such as the Dobbins Lookout at 2,330 feet, the highest point accessible to the public. 

Pro tip:
Hike to the summit of one of the park’s peaks for breathtaking views of the Phoenix cityscape. Dobbins Lookout is a popular choice, and you can reach it by hiking trails or taking Summit Rd.

15. Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/sonoran-preserve

Address: 1600 East Sonoran Desert Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States

Contact details: +16022626011

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM

The Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve offers a massive chunk of unspoiled desert within the city limits. With over 9,600 acres to explore, you can hike or bike for miles and feel like you’re in a remote wilderness area.  

Depending on the time of year, you’ll find towering saguaro cacti, prickly chollas, and a vibrant array of desert wildflowers. Keep your eyes peeled for desert wildlife, too—you might spot a coyote, a roadrunner, or even a majestic golden eagle soaring overhead.

Pro tip:
The desert sun can be unforgiving, so stay hydrated throughout your visit. Hike to the top of Dixie Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Phoenix metropolitan area.

16. Deem Hills Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/deem-hills

Address: 26606 N Deem Hills Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85083, United States

Contact details: +16022626575

Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Encompassing nearly 1,000 acres of Sonoran Desert landscape, Deem Hills Park boasts scenic beauty with unique volcanic rock formations. It also has athletic fields, basketball and volleyball courts, and even a dog park for your furry friend.

Here, you can hike the 5.7-mile Deem Hills Circumference Trail for breathtaking panoramic views of the Phoenix area or conquer the shorter 1.5-mile Ridgeline Trail, the park’s highest point. 

Pro tip:
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends, so arrive early to snag a spot close to the trailheads. Hike the Ridgeline Trail for unbeatable views of the surrounding desert landscape and the Phoenix cityscape.

17. Reach 11 Recreation Area

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/trails/locations/reach-11

Address: 19226 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

Contact details: +16025346267

Operating hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM

Reach 11 Recreation Area offers a whopping 18 miles of multi-use trails. This extensive trail network caters to hikers, bikers, and equestrians, making it an excellent destination for all outdoor enthusiasts. 

The park encompasses a massive 1,500 acres, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the tranquility of the Sonoran Desert.  The area’s natural beauty, with its cacti and desert flora, creates a serene atmosphere for a relaxing day outdoors.

Pro tip:
Since the park is quite large, download a trail map. The Reach 11 Recreation Loop is a popular 3-mile paved trail perfect for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or jog. 

18. Arcadia Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/a-parks

Address: 3402 N 56th St, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

Contact details: +16022563220

Operating hours: 7:00 AM to 10:45 PM

Arcadia Park boasts a sizable playground with covered equipment, perfect for entertaining little ones. It has open grassy areas ideal for picnics, playing frisbee, or kicking a soccer ball. 

 Arcadia Park provides a peaceful escape within the city. Its mature trees offer shade on hot days while you enjoy the sight of Camelback Mountain. If you’re looking for a place to bring your furry friend, the park welcomes leashed dogs. 

Pro tip:
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially during peak afternoon hours. Take in the views of Camelback Mountain, an iconic landmark that provides a stunning backdrop to your Arcadia Park experience.

19. Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant

Address: 41402 N 87th Ave, Peoria, AZ 85383, United States

Operating hours: 24/7

The Desert Outdoor Center is an environmental education center set against the stunning backdrop of the Sonoran Desert and Lake Pleasant. It is unique because it focuses on immersing visitors in the desert environment through educational activities.

Specifically designed for school groups, scout troops, and other youth organizations, the Center offers over 30 ranger-led programs on various topics. There are even programs on astronomy with an observatory telescope for stargazing. 

Pro tip:
Book one of the ranger-led programs if you’re visiting with a group. They offer a fun and engaging way to learn about the desert’s unique ecosystem and inhabitants.

20. Adobe Dam Regional Park

Website: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/adobe-dam-regional-park/

Address: 23280 N 43rd Ave, Glendale, AZ 85310, United States

Contact details: +16025062930

Operating hours: 24/7

Adobe Dam Regional Park focuses on nature exploration, action, and adrenaline. The park boasts a variety of concessionaires that cater to thrill-seekers, such as go-karts, a paintball match, or radio-controlled airplanes. 

If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, there’s also an 18-hole championship golf course where you can tee off amidst the desert landscape. It also has the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Phoenix, a water park with slides, pools, and rides.

Pro tip:
Consider a combo experience!  Pair your chosen activity, like paintball or go-karting, with a relaxing round at the 500 Club Championship Golf Course for a day of action and leisure.

21. Buckeye Hills Regional Park

Website: http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/buckeye-hills-regional-park/

Address: 26699 Buckeye Hills Dr, Buckeye, AZ 85326, United States

Contact details: +16025062930

Operating hours: Friday to Sunday – 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Spanning over 4,474 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert, Buckeye Hills Regional Park boasts rolling hills, incredible desert vistas, and glimpses of the Gila River riparian area. Since no designated trails exist, Buckeye Hills offers a more secluded experience. 

Since the park allows horseback riding and mountain biking, you can explore a different mode of transport and cover more ground. With no designated trails, you can forge your path and discover hidden wonders at your own pace. 

Pro tip:
During the scorching summer months, plan your visit for early morning or later afternoon to avoid the harshest heat. Hike to the highest point in the park and take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the desert landscape. 

22. Cave Creek Regional Park

Website: http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/cave-creek-regional-park/

Address: 37019 N Lava Ln, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, United States

Contact details: +16025062930

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Cave Creek Regional Park is a massive park with nearly 3,000 acres to explore. The park also has a nature center where visitors can learn more about the Sonoran Desert ecosystem.

Cave Creek Regional Park is a historical site. In the 1870s, gold prospectors staked their claims in this area, and you can still see evidence of their mining activity on some of the trails through guided hikes that take you to these old mines.

Pro tip:
Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Hike to the top of Black Mountain for the best views in the park. 

23. Civic Space Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks/parks/alphabetical/c-parks/civic-space

Address: 424 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Contact details: +16022627490

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM

Civic Space Park is a 2.7-acre urban oasis that blends modern design with green space. The park boasts a unique shade structure with solar panels that power the park’s lighting and features a splash pad, perfect for beating the Phoenix heat.  

There’s also a large public art installation called “Her Secret is Patience” by Janet Echelman, making it an excellent spot for photo ops. If you’re traveling with kids, the splash pad is a must-visit, while the stage area often hosts events. 

Pro tip:
Visit in the evening to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the beautiful lighting effects of the park’s interactive LED columns. Take a photo with the “Her Secret is Patience” sculpture as a unique souvenir of your visit to Civic Space Park.

24. Estrella Mountain Regional Park

Website: http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/estrella-mountain-regional-park/

Address: 14805 W Vineyard Ave, Goodyear, AZ 85338, United States

Contact details: +16025062930

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Encompassing a vast 19,840 acres, Estrella Mountain Regional Park offers a diverse landscape. Here, you can hike or bike through undisturbed desert trails, explore the unique Gila River wetland area, or climb the foothills for views of the Phoenix Valley.  

Estrella Mountain boasts over 33 miles of trails catering to all experience levels. The park also features a large grass picnic area, ramadas with grills for group gatherings, a refreshing spot for fishing by the Gila River, and even a golf course.

Pro tip:
Aim for early morning hikes or plan your visit for the cooler spring and fall months. Hike to the top of a butte for breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling Phoenix Valley, particularly captivating during sunrise or sunset.  

25. Lake Pleasant Regional Park

Website: http://www.maricopacountyparks.net/park-locator/lake-pleasant-regional-park/

Address: 41835 N Castle Hot Springs Rd, Morristown, AZ 85342, United States

Contact details: +19285011710

Operating hours: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Encompassing over 23,000 acres, Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers a mountainous desert landscape surrounding a lake. The park has a nature center where you can learn about the area’s history and wildlife and the Waddell Dam that created the lake.

With its towering cacti, rugged mountains, and abundant wildlife, the park provides a stunning backdrop for relaxation or adventure. The park’s vastness makes you feel comfortable,  allowing you to appreciate the desert’s unique ecosystem.

Pro tip:
Lake water levels fluctuate throughout the year, reaching their peak in spring. If you’re planning water activities, aim for a visit between March and April to ensure the most surface area for fun.

26. Lost Dutchman State Park

Website: https://azstateparks.com/lost-dutchman

Address: 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

Contact details: +14809824485

Operating hours: 24/7

Lost Dutchman State Park is a fantastic escape from the Phoenix metro area. Nestled at the base of the Superstition Mountains, the park boasts dramatic desert landscapes with cacti, wildflowers, and rugged mountains.

From the easy Native Plant Trail showcasing the unique desert flora to the challenging Siphon Draw Trail leading to the top of Flatiron, there’s a path for everyone. The park also offers campsites and picnic areas for a weekend getaway under the desert stars.

Pro tip:
Pack plenty of water and wear proper footwear, as the desert heat and trails can be unforgiving. Hike the Flatiron Trail for panoramic views of the Superstition Mountains and understand the park’s rugged beauty properly.

27. Los Olivos Park

Website: http://www.phoenix.gov/parks

Address: 2802 E Devonshire Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States

Contact details: +16022626696

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Los Olivos Park boasts a playground structure perfect for entertaining little ones. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the multipurpose field, lighted sand volleyball court, or horseshoe pits. 

There’s also a disc golf course for those looking for a unique challenge and a fitness course for a more invigorating experience. Los Olivos Park provides ample green space for picnics, strolls, or simply basking in the Arizona sunshine. 

Pro tip:
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a meal under the shade of a ramada. Los Olivos Park’s green space and friendly atmosphere are perfect for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

28. Edison Park

Website: https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/housing/1842

Address: 901 N 19th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006, United States

Contact details: +16022626759

Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Edison Park boasts a large grassy area, perfect for picnics, playing frisbee, or relaxing under the sunshine. There’s also a playground with various structures to entertain the little ones for hours. 

Edison Park boasts a Piestewa Peak Viewing Area with stunning panoramic views. It also offers a basketball court, a volleyball court, and a seasonal splash pad.

Pro tip:
Pack a frisbee or a ball to enjoy fun games on the grassy field. Take advantage of the Piestewa Peak Viewing Area for incredible views!
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