Arizona National Parks And Monuments: 31+ Spectacular Sites

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Arizona National Parks And Monuments: 31+ Spectacular Sites


The Grand Canyon National Park is known throughout the globe and probably the most acknowledged of the Arizona National Parks. A stunning truth: there are a complete of 32 nationwide parks, monuments, historic parks, memorials, historic websites, recreation areas, historic trails and heritage areas scattered all through the Grand Canyon State.

We are working our method by way of the checklist of National Parks and National Monuments in Arizona. And, we’ll proceed to share our highway journey experiences and the most effective locations we visited alongside the way in which whereas tenting in Arizona!

Arizona National Parks And Monuments by CampingForFoodies features a collage of photos from various locations. An expansive view of the Grand Canyon National Park under a blue sky with puffy clouds, a teetering rock under a blue sky at Chiricahua National Monument, the historic building at Tumacácori National Historical Park, reddish brown rock landscape at Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, golden sunset at Saguaro National Park and boats on the blue waters of Lake Powell with mountains in the distance at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Psst we’re compensated…see our disclosures.

National Parks

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon, AZ

Grand Canyon National Park by CampingForFoodies features the red, brown and gray canyon walls as far as the eye can see. Fluffy white clouds hang in a blue sky over the canyon on a partially sunny day.

The north rim is closed within the wintertime however the south rim is open yr spherical. Our opinion: The Grand Canyon – There’s no higher place to get edgy!

We have seen the Grand Canyon from nearly each angle (for years my husband and I had been pilots flying sightseeing excursions of the south rim of the Grand Canyon.)

Our latest RV journey took us to the north rim the place we camped on the North Rim Campground having fun with cool summer time temperatures. This location has phenomenal views, nice mountaineering trails and was solely a quick stroll to the Grand Canyon Lodge.

In 1979 the Grand Canyon was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization designation for having cultural, historic, scientific or different significance.) It can also be one of many Seven Natural Wonders of the World. But, it’s nearly like two completely different locations. The canyon splits the park in two sections. The north rim (roughly 7,000 ft above sea stage) sits about 1,000 ft greater than the south rim (roughly 8,000 ft above sea stage) producing completely completely different flora, fauna and climate.

Don’t count on to go to each rims in in the future. To drive from one rim to the opposite in a automobile, you’ll be taking a 220 mile (354 km) journey. The greatest strategy to see each rims is to plan it like two back-to-back holidays.

The park is positioned on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes and covers 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjoining uplands.

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  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 225 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Grand Canyon National Park


2. Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest, AZ

Petrified Forest National Park by CampingForFoodies features a piece of petrified wood laying on the ground covered with rocks and sparse desert plants. The large petrified piece is colorful with an exterior made up of browns and reds while the exposed interior also has yellows, oranges and purple tones.

We skilled the Petrified Forest National Park by way of a 4-day motorbike tour all through northeastern Arizona, by way of Springerville and down the 191 freeway to Safford. Although it was raining throughout our time on the Petrified Forest, we loved each minute of it! The large petrified Redwood bushes displayed an superior rainbow of colours.

If you have got time to take backcountry hikes, don’t miss Red Basin and the Devil’s Playground. Horseback using is allowed within the Painted Desert Wilderness Area. Bring your personal trusty steed to discover.

  • Location: Northeastern Arizona, roughly 200 miles northeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: Only backpacking/mountaineering into the designated Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area, allow required. Holbrook is the closest city with tenting.
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Petrified Forest National Park


3. Saguaro National Park

Tucson, AZ

Saguaro National Park by CampingForFoodies features a forest of saguaro cacti and other desert plants with a small mountain in the distance. The landscaped is bathed in a golden color for the setting sun.

The surroundings at this southern Arizona park is phenomenal! It’s an excellent place to discover by automobile, bike or foot! We skilled it on a day journey whereas we had been staying at Catalina State Park.

The saguaro cactus is an iconic image of the American Southwest. They are solely present in a few areas of the United States. The greatest time to see these huge saguaro cacti is throughout dawn or sundown hours. But, be sure to plan to spend your entire day on the park should you plan on mountaineering and making the most of the guided applications.

The Tucson Mountain District is on the west facet of Saguaro National Park and ranges in elevation between 2,180 – 4,687 ft.

The Rincon Mountain District is on the east facet of Saguaro National Park and ranges in elevation between 2,670 – 8,666 ft. Because of the upper elevation, the Rincon district has extra variety in plant and wildlife viewing.

  • Location: Southeastern Arizona, roughly 100 miles southeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: Backcountry tenting is obtainable by allow, no automobile tenting is permitted. Tucson is the closest city with tenting.
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Saguaro National Park


National Monuments

4. Agua Fria National Monument

Black Canyon City, AZ

Of the tons of of archaeological websites within the Agua Fria, Pueblo La Plata is among the most distinguished and simply accessible ruins to discover. At one time, this was an 80-90 room village. The canyon under could be seen from the excessive location of the settlement. While you’re right here be sure to go to the confluence of the Badger Springs Wash and the Agua Fria River the place you’ll discover an historical rock artwork website.

  • Location: Central Arizona, roughly 40 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: Dispersed/primitive tenting is allowed, no campgrounds
  • Managing Agency: Bureau Of Land Management (BLM)
  • Official Website: Agua Fria National Monument


5. Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Chinle, AZ

Canyon de Chelly Arizona USA by CampingForFoodies features views from the Spider Rock Overlook and Antelope House Overlook along the scenic self-guided rim drives.

We had this place on our bucket checklist for a very long time and lastly skilled it! The panorama options expansive canyon rims towering above magnificent canyon partitions dotted with historical ruins, arches, ladders and pictographs. See our VIDEO and whole Canyon De Chelly Camping & Itinerary.

Take a self-guided journey alongside the north and south rim drives. To see the canyon ground, you’ll have to take a tour with a Navajo information. The rock formations look completely completely different from this vantage level. You’ll additionally get an excellent view of the White House Ruins and be taught in regards to the native American tradition when you’re experiencing their tribal land.

Navajo individuals have lived in these canyons for almost 5,000 years. To at the present time, households make their properties, elevate livestock and farm the lands inside the canyon.

If you don’t get to this space typically, it’s well worth the 95 mile journey to the northwest to go to Monument Valley. This is one other location inside the Navajo Nation Parks jurisdiction. Many individuals consider the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is one other one among Arizona’s National Parks however it isn’t. It is solely owned and operated by native Americans, there isn’t a partnership with the U.S. authorities right here. It is really one of many most gorgeous locations within the state. And, the one place to essentially expertise the land the place so a lot of John Wayne’s western films had been shot. When we visited right here, we camped on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property and boondocked for FREE at Valley of the Gods.


6. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Coolidge, AZ

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument by CampingForFoodies features the ruins of the preserved “Great House” under a sunny blue Arizona sky.

The Casa Grande Ruins are a little bit of a thriller. It is unknown if this was a gathering place for the traditional individuals or only a waypoint marker in a system of in depth irrigation canals for the farming group.

Follow the posted indicators to take a strolling self-guided tour across the Casa Grande. And, be sure to see the preserved “Great House” throughout your keep. Enjoy the customer middle with data desk, monument bookstore, museum reveals, movie show and the picnic areas. For giant teams, the park’s out of doors kitchen could be reserved prematurely.

  • Location: South-central Arizona, roughly 55 miles southeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Coolidge
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Casa Grande Ruins


7. Chiricahua National Monument

Willcox, AZ

Chiricahua National Monument by CampingForFoodies features one of the rock pinnacles as it balances on its small base with many other formations in the background under a sunny blue sky.

Neil and Emma Erickson had been Swedish immigrants who raised their three youngsters in a house within the Chiricahua Mountains. In the early 1900s, the two sisters, Lillian and Hildegard, turned the household homestead right into a visitor ranch they named Faraway Ranch.

Eventually Lillian and her husband Ed Riggs found the “Wonderland of Rocks” whereas they managed the ranch and commenced selling it for the enterprise. In 1924 the rock formations formally turned protected as Chiricahua National Monument. Visit the Faraway Ranch Historic District to be taught extra about its historical past.

This 12,025 acre website has 17-miles of day-use mountaineering trails for exploring on foot. Get your digital camera able to seize the views of the rhyolite rock pinnacles that appear like they’re able to fall over as they stability on their small bases.

This is a good place to go to particularly in case you are touring with people who find themselves unable to hike. The 8-mile paved scenic drive permits everybody the chance to see these majestic rocks.

  • Location: Southeastern Arizona, roughly 230 miles southeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes, for tents and RVs as much as 29 ft. There are plenty of tenting choices within the Coronado National Forest
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Chiricahua National Monument


8. Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument

Northwestern Arizona, AZ

Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument is the excessive subsequent door neighbor to the Grand Canyon National Park. The monument borders Grand Canyon National Park to the south, the state of Nevada to the west, and encompasses a portion of Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Parashant is distant, remoted and rugged. The Park Service warns: Parashant is for 4×4 vans/SUVs solely, not vehicles, minivans, and so forth. A excessive clearance 4×4 with tires designed for off-pavement use is the most essential security merchandise you want.

There are many scenic drives right here, a few of them have views of the Grand Canyon. All of the drives require 4×4 autos, some require very excessive clearance 4x4s or UTVs. Hiking, backcountry tenting and astronomy (evening sky viewing) are widespread actions right here.


9. Hohokam Pima National Monument

The Hohokam Pima National Monument is owned by the Gila River Indian Community and is positioned on the Gila River Indian Reservation. It is closed to the general public. There isn’t any park brochure, passport stamp, image stamp and so forth.


10. Ironwood Forest National Monument

Marana, AZ

This 129,000-acre nationwide monument is what a “forest” appears like within the Sonoran Desert. Ironwood, mesquite and palo verde bushes dot the panorama together with creosote bushes and saguaro cacti. The rugged mountain ranges climb as much as 4,200 ft to create the desert valleys under.

Visitors take pleasure in primitive tenting, mountaineering, mountain biking, horseback using, searching, wildlife and plant viewing, in addition to historic and archaeological websites, fossil and geologic sightseeing.

  • Location: Southern Arizona, roughly 100 miles south of Phoenix
  • Camping: Primitive tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest cities with full amenities are Marana and Tucson
  • Managing Agency: Bureau Of Land Management (BLM)
  • Official Website: Ironwood Forest National Monument


11. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Camp Verde, AZ

Montezuma Castle National Monument by CampingForFoodies features a large shelter structure built into the surrounding towering limestone cliff. The brown, yellow and white tones of the rock are complimented by the green trees below.

This website has top-of-the-line preserved historical cliff dwellings in North America. The major attraction is a 20-room dwelling/shelter construction constructed right into a towering limestone cliff.

Make certain you go to Montezuma Well when you’re right here too. This sub-unit of Montezuma Castle is a fast 15 minute drive with quick access off of I-17. While you’re there you’ll see the irrigation canal, picnic areas and the historic Back ranch home.

The Verde Valley’s desert local weather is unforgiving in the summertime months. It’s greatest to go to within the winter, spring or fall seasons. No matter what time of yr you discover right here, be sure to carry loads of water.

  • Location: Central Arizona, roughly 95 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Camp Verde
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Montezuma Castle National Monument


12. Navajo National Monument

Shonto, AZ

Navajo National Monument by CampingForFoodies features many ancient cliff dwellings that were built into the natural sandstone alcoves with tones of red, brown and orange colored cliffs. Some of the wooden ladders and rooftops are still intact.

Hopi, San Juan Southern Paiute, Zuni and Navajo tribes constructed properties to inhabit the canyons for a lot of generations. Living quarters had been constructed within the pure sandstone alcoves.

Navajo National Monument’s objective is to protect three particular thirteenth century cliff dwellings in Northern Arizona. Betatakin, Keet Seel and Inscription House haven’t been occupied since roughly 1300 AD. Certain dwellings are solely accessible on foot with a National Park Service information.

Three self-guided trails supply quick hikes for viewing:

  1. Sandal Trail is a roundtrip 1 mile path and the solely self-guided path providing views of cliff dwellings. You’ll see the Betatakin cliff dwelling village from this path.
  2. Aspen Trail is a 0.8 mile spherical journey hike providing views of forest bushes: Quaking Aspen and Douglas Fir.
  3. Canyon View Trail is a 0.8 mile roundtrip nature path connecting the customer middle with the Canyon View Campground. It begins on the customer middle and ends on the park’s historic ranger station.
  • Location: Northeastern Arizona, roughly 280 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes, 2 campgrounds supply FREE first come, first served tenting for tents and RVs underneath 28 ft. Larger rigs can discover amenities in Tuba City or Monument Valley.
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Navajo National Monument


13. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Ajo, AZ

Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument by CampingForFoodies features a sandy-colored dirt path surrounded by organ pipe and saguaro cacti, the surrounding mountains are dotted with green brush and brown rocks, under a sunny blue sky.

With over 500 sq. miles of lush GREEN Sonoran Desert, you by no means know what varieties of sights you’ll see within the pure areas of this southern Arizona panorama.

This land experiences excessive climate situations starting from warmth and droughtfreezing and floods. That means the vegetation and animals that survive right here have discovered to adapt to the extreme situations of the encompassing space.

With a reputation like “Organ Pipe Cactus”, it’s fairly straightforward to guess this panorama is roofed with Organ Pipe cacti. You’ll additionally see different species just like the Saguaro, Teddy Bear Cholla, Pincushion, Arizona Barrell and extra.

Wildlife is simply as numerous. Keep your eyes open for the varied species of bats, birds and snakes. If you’re fortunate sufficient you might even see a few of the mountain lions, desert bighorn sheep and mule deer that stay within the space.

The hottest strategy to expertise this place is by driving the scenic roads. You’ll discover paved roads in addition to gravel/grime roads. There are 5 major roads to expertise the world in passenger autos or on bicycles:

  • Ajo Mountain Drive
  • Puerto Blanco Drive
  • Bates Well Road
  • Pozo Nuevo Road
  • Camino de Dos Republicas to Gachado

Hiking, equestrian trails and park ranger applications are different methods to benefit from the sights and sounds of top-of-the-line Arizona desert landscapes.

  • Location: Southwestern Arizona, roughly 125 miles southwest of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes, can accommodate RVs as much as 45 ft
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument


14. Pipe Spring National Monument

Kaibab, AZ

The Visitor Center and Museum, guided excursions, talks and demonstrations expose guests to the wealthy historical past of the Kaibab Paiute and Mormon settlers of the world.

  • Location: Northwestern Arizona, roughly 350 miles northwest of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Fredonia, Arizona. The Kaibab Paiute RV Park and Campground is positioned 1/4 mile north of the monument and is operated by the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Pipe Spring National Monument


15. Sonoran Desert National Monument

Maricopa, AZ

You’ll see in depth forests of the enduring saguaro cactus nestled amongst a number of mountain ranges. There are miles of roads for mountain biking and motor vehicle excursions (some require 4-wheel drive autos), mountaineering and equestrian trails.

  • Location: Central Arizona, roughly 60 miles southwest of Phoenix
  • Camping: Dispersed tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest cities with full amenities are Maricopa and Gila Bend
  • Managing Agency: Bureau Of Land Management (BLM)
  • Official Website: Sonoran Desert National Monument

16. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Flagstaff, AZ

Sunset Crater National Monument

You don’t usually consider volcanic eruptions in Arizona however it’s estimated that the yr 1085 was when Sunset Crater erupted. Scientists consider the eruption lasted anyplace from a few weeks to some months. The volcanic ash enriched the world’s soil which was nice for farming and precipitated the inhabitants to extend.

Cinder cones usually solely erupt as soon as. So, though Sunset Crater Volcano is not an energetic volcano, it’s one among roughly 600 volcanoes in northern Arizona which is taken into account an energetic volcanic area.

While you’re there, take a stroll alongside the Lava Flow Trail which can take you to the base of Sunset Crater Volcano the place you’ll get a nearer look on the Bonito Lava Flow and quite a few volcanic options. This path is nice as a result of it accommodates wheelchairs, walkers and strollers.

We cherished our go to to Sunset Crater National Monument which was a day journey from our dispersed tenting location in Coconino National Forest. We occurred to be there at a time of yr when the wildflowers had been going WILD! That added a spark of additional colour to the volcanic rocks and lava panorama!

We cherished our go to to Sunset Crater a lot in order that I needed to write a brief weblog submit about it! Sunset Crater National Monument: The “Cinders” title isn’t reserved for my husband’s grilling abilities!

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 165 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, there are various tenting areas in Coconino National Forest, the closest metropolis with amenities is Flagstaff
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument


17. Tonto National Monument

Roosevelt, AZ

This space is one among our favourite locations to hang around within the fall and winter months. The Tonto National Monument has fascinating cliff dwellings however has a restricted variety of spots for the guided tour so be sure to plan accordingly.

This monument is a quick distance from the Tonto National Forest Burnt Corral Campground which requires you to drive down a slender winding mountain highway, the views are incredible however some components of this drive are not for the faint at coronary heart.

This was additionally the situation the place I examined our first tenting Thanksgiving dinner which incorporates turkey and all of the trimmings!

  • Location: Central Arizona, roughly 110 miles northeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, there are various choices for tenting within the Tonto National Forest, the closest metropolis with amenities is Roosevelt, AZ
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Tonto National Monument


18. Tuzigoot National Monument

Clarkdale, AZ

Tuzigoot National Monument by CampingForFoodies features the remnants of an ancient building made of stacked stones, there are distant mountain views on a sunny day under a blue sky.

Tuzigoot’s historical pueblo was constructed by the Sinagua individuals who had been farmers are artists. This monument let’s you think about it’s former occupants by way of the remnants of an historical village and a small museum.  

We’ve really been right here a few occasions, as soon as we stayed at a retro motel and one other time was a tenting expertise on the Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Both of our visits to the world included a visit on the Verde Canyon Railroad which was AWESOME!

  • Location: Central Arizona, roughly 105 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest cities with amenities are Clarkdale and Cottonwood
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Tuzigoot National Monument


19. Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

Marble Canyon, AZ

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument by CampingForFoodies features a multi-colored rock landscape with tones of red, orange, brown and yellow under a partially cloudy sky.

This 280,000-acre monument is distant and numerous. It borders Kaibab National Forest to the west and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area to the east. Here you possibly can expertise the Paria Plateau, Vermilion Cliffs, Coyote Buttes and Paria Canyon. Plan to see a few of the most gorgeous surroundings on planet earth!

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 270 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Page
  • Managing Agency: Bureau Of Land Management (BLM)
  • Official Website: Vermilion Cliffs National Monument


20. Walnut Canyon National Monument

Flagstaff, AZ

Walnut Canyon National Monument by CampingForFoodies features stacked stones under a large overhanging rock, cliff formations on a sunny day under a deep blue sky.

You’ll see curved canyon partitions and superior cliff formations at this monument. Hiking the paths, chook watching and picnicking are widespread actions right here.

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 155 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Flagstaff
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Walnut Canyon National Monument


21. Wupatki National Monument

Flagstaff, AZ

Wupatki National Monument by CampingForFoodies features brownish orange ancient ruins with distant mountains in the background under a darkened sky with thunderstorms in the distance.

This is among the warmest, driest locations on the Colorado Plateau. Guided excursions and interpretive applications will train you in regards to the individuals and historical actions of this space together with the commerce gadgets that had been found from the Pacific to the Gulf of Mexico!

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 175 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Flagstaff
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Wupatki National Monument


National Recreation Areas

22. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Page, AZ

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area by CampingForFoodies features a landscape view of the shore and blue waters of Lake Powell. People on the shore are looking down toward the lake where several boats are anchored. The surrounding mountains in the distance frame the lake under a sunny sky.

The recreation space crosses into two states: northern Arizona and southern Utah. It is breathtaking! You will move the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in case you are headed northbound on freeway 89 towards the Grand Canyon North Rim or factors past, it’s price stopping to discover for a few hours or a number of days.

The bridge and the dam are each engineering marvels with gorgeous views. Water recreation enjoyable on Lake Powell is continuous too so be sure to enable sufficient time to expertise all of it. On our go to we noticed Horseshoe Bend, took one of many excursions of Glen Canyon Dam, and took one of many boat excursions on Lake Powell that stopped on the Rainbow Bridge with time for mountaineering the magnificent trails. They are positively bucket checklist gadgets!

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 280 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes, there are various campgrounds in numerous areas unfold all through the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area


23. Lake Mead National Recreation Area

The Mojave Desert, AZ / Near Boulder City, NV

Lake Mead National Recreation Area by CampingForFoodies features a boat with a small wake maneuvering between the rock formations protruding from the water, there are mountains surrounding the water under a blue sunny sky.

This is America’s first and largest nationwide recreation space. It covers 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and contains two giant lakes.

If you might be into water sports activities, Lake Mead is a excellent place to recreate. One warning, with the drought situations of the previous couple of years, the water stage at Lake Mead has been at document lows so in case you are boating it’s essential to watch out. It can also be a quick distance to Hoover Dam which accommodates guests with fascinating excursions.

There are 9 wilderness areas right here and guests take pleasure in swimming, boating, mountaineering, biking, fishing and tenting.

  • Location: Northwestern Arizona, roughly 270 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: Yes, there are various campgrounds in numerous areas unfold all through the Lake Mead National Recreation Area
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Lake Mead National Recreation Area


National Memorials

24. Coronado National Memorial

Hereford, AZ

Coronado National Memorial by CampingForFoodies features a vast landscape of mountains dotted with green desert trees and bushes, off in the distance is a valley floor surrounded by more mountains. The southern Arizona scene is set in the daytime under a sunny sky.

Visit the Coronado Cave, go for a scenic drive, hike, birding and picnicking at this location.

  • Location: Southern Arizona, roughly 210 miles south of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Sierra Vista
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Coronado National Memorial


National Historic Sites

25. Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Bowie, AZ

Fort Bowie National Historic Site by CampingForFoodies features the foundation remnants of the old fort ruins with brown and green desert grasses and distant mountain views under a sunny blue sky.

At the time we had been at this historic website we had been alone, there have been no different guests which really felt somewhat eerie realizing all that befell on this space so a few years in the past. This was the location of battle between the Chiricahua Apache and the US Army.

The surrounding city is so peaceable as we speak it’s laborious to think about the hostile battle of its historical past. Make certain you’re taking time to discover the historical past of Fort Bowie and Apache Pass. Take a hike to the customer middle and outdated fort ruins.

  • Location: Southeastern Arizona, roughly 230 miles southeast of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Bowie
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Fort Bowie National Historic Site


26. Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

Ganado, AZ

We actually felt like we had been strolling again in historical past and it was a privilege to fulfill a few of the artisans creating the Native American Art and honoring their heritage and tradition.

You can buy groceries, dry items, rugs, jewellery and extra at this working buying and selling submit. The park retailer is positioned contained in the buying and selling submit and has books, postcards and souvenirs.

  • Location: Northeastern Arizona, roughly 310 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Holbrook
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site


National Historical Parks

27. Tumacácori National Historical Park

Tumacácori, AZ

Tumacácori National Historical Park by CampingForFoodies features the mission building in the distance which is framed by looking through an arched doorway, the grounds are brown while the trees are bright green under a blue sky on a sunny day.

In 1691, Father Kino made historical past when he established Mission Tumacácori throughout a go to to an O’odham village.

It was at this location that O’odham, Yaqui, and Apache individuals met European Jesuit and Franciscan missionaries, settlers and troopers. There had been conferences of battle and of cooperation between these numerous individuals and their cultures.

  • Location: Southern Arizona, roughly 160 miles south of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Tubac
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Tumacácori National Historical Park


National Scenic Trails

28. Arizona National Scenic Trail

Full Length Of The State Of Arizona

Arizona National Scenic Trail by CampingForFoodies features a directional signpost for the Picketpost Trailhead and the Arizona National Scenic Trail with lush green desert and a distant mountain range under a clear blue sky.

The Arizona National Scenic Trail is usually known as the “Arizona Trail” which is a becoming title as a result of this path stretches over 800 miles throughout the total state. The non-motorized path path runs north/south and extends from the U.S./Mexico border on the south finish of the state to Utah on the north finish.

The path is split into 43 passages and passes by way of numerous federal lands, together with 4 nationwide forests:

  1. Coronado National Forest
  2. Tonto National Forest
  3. Coconino National Forest
  4. Kaibab National Forest

There are 29 Gateway communities alongside the Arizona Trail together with:

  1. Sierra Vista
  2. Patagonia
  3. Sonoita
  4. Green Valley
  5. Sahuarita
  6. Vail
  7. Tucson
  8. Summerhaven
  9. Oracle
  10. San Manuel
  11. Mammoth
  12. Kearny
  13. Florence
  14. Superior
  15. Globe
  16. Roosevelt
  17. Tonto Basin
  18. Payson
  19. Pine
  20. Strawberry
  21. Mormon Lake Village
  22. Flagstaff
  23. Tusayan
  24. Grand Canyon South Rim
  25. Grand Canyon North Rim
  26. Jacob Lake
  27. Page
  28. Fredonia
  29. Kanab
  • Location: Entire state of Arizona
  • Camping: Camping is obtainable at many areas alongside the path
  • Managing Agency: Various businesses handle completely different areas alongside the path
  • Official Website: Arizona National Scenic Trail

Here’s a hyperlink to the USDA/Forest Service Arizona National Scenic Trail GIS Map.


National Historic Trails

29. Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

Nogales, AZ to San Francisco, CA

In the late 1700s, Juan Bautista de Anza led over 240 individuals on a 1,200 mile journey from Nogales, Arizona to the San Francisco Bay space in California to set up a settlement there. Experience historic websites and recreation mountaineering trails alongside the Anza Historic Trail.

  • Location: Southern Arizona, roughly 180 miles south of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Nogales
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail

Here’s a hyperlink to the NPS Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail GIS Map.


30. Old Spanish National Historic Trail

AZ, CA, CO, NV, NM, UT

The Old Spanish National Historic Trail crosses six states from Santa Fe, New Mexico to Los Angeles, California. This is the trail New Mexican merchants traveled to maneuver their merchandise to commerce for mules and horses. The AZ part of the path runs alongside the northern border of the state and has a number of completely different websites to go to in Arizona.

  • Location: Northern Arizona, roughly 350 miles north of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Fredonia
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Old Spanish National Historic Trail

Here’s a hyperlink to the NPS Old Spanish National Historic Trail GIS Map.


National Heritage Areas

31. Santa Cruz Valley National Heritage Area

3,300+ Miles Across The Southern Part Of The State Of Arizona

The Santa Cruz Valley National Heritage Area extends over 3,300 miles throughout Southern Arizona. It contains two scenic driving routes which can be close to the cities of Tucson and Nogales:

  1. Sky Island Scenic Byway
  2. Patagonia-Sonoita Scenic Road

The heritage space incorporates many factors of curiosity together with:

  1. San Xavier del Bac Mission, National Historic Landmark
  2. Historic Canoa Ranch
  3. San Xavier Co-Op Farm
  4. Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
  5. Catalina State Park
  6. Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve
  7. Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
  8. Mission Garden
  9. Presidio San Agustín del Tucson Museum
  10. Agua Caliente Park

Here’s a hyperlink to the Santa Cruz Valley National Heritage Area Map.


32. Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area

Yuma, AZ

In 1540, the first Europeans arrived on this space to mark the starting of the event of the Southwest and California. Significant occasions occurred over 5.5 centuries at this location to assist construct the nation. Today you’ll discover:

  1. Yuma Crossing and related websites
  2. Two state historic parks
  3. Two riverfront parks
  4. A multi-use path
  5. 400 acres of restored wetlands
  6. An interpretive plaza
  • Location: Southwestern Arizona, roughly 190 miles southwest of Phoenix
  • Camping: No tenting is obtainable at this location, the closest metropolis with amenities is Yuma
  • Managing Agency: National Park Service (NPS)
  • Official Website: Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area


FREE Trip Planning Template

Grab your copy of our FREE Printable Camping Trip Planner Template to maintain you organized as you propose your superior highway journey!

Camping Trip Planner Template Free Printable by CampingForFoodies is a whimsical illustration of a cute old orange car towing a blue and white vintage camper trailer down a road in a landscape of green trees, light green grass and brown mountains with fluffy clouds in a blue sky; thumbnail images of multiple pages of a camping trip planner under the text that reads camping free trip planner.

Where to remain and extra…

Many of the locations on this checklist have lodging and tenting amenities however for people who don’t you have got different choices…

If you might be tenting your method by way of the state to go to the Arizona-based nationwide treasures, you’ll find a great deal of data from the Arizona State Parks.

The Arizona Office of Tourism has plenty of data for all your Arizona touring wants together with Hotels and Lodging, Events Calendar, Travel Information and extra.

Have enjoyable…be protected and revel in your journey!


Menu Ideas For Your Trip

Make each meal as memorable because the sights you see in your camp journeys!

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