E X P LO R I N G
Exploring the Grand Canyon State Summer staycations at Arizona’s parks and trails By Michelle Thompson
W
ith the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Arizonans are looking for great summer vacations in their home state. Arizona State Parks and Trails has amazing lesser-known parks that are a great fit. With family-friendly activities, camping for beginners (and experts), plus miles of trails and plenty of rest and relaxation, a road trip to one of these parks will make lasting memories.
Lakeside destination
Roper Lake Cabins
Head north to Lyman Lake State Park, where the capacity for water fun is only limited by your imagination. This large lake has no motor size restrictions for boaters but also has a nowake zone for swimming. You can take your paddleboard, kayak or jet ski out—or try water skiing! This park was once host to several water ski tournaments. Located in St. Johns, this higher-elevation park will have pleasant days and cool nights, and it has campsites for tents or RVs. If you’re not a camping expert, try staying in one of the cabins. All you need to bring is a sleeping bag and you’re all set. Wake up and have your morning coffee on the front porch overlooking the sunrise on the lake. There are trails that tell the history of the area as well as a playground and park store.
where you can relax at the base of Mount Graham in southeastern Arizona. Roper Lake and Dankworth Pond are connected parks that offer camping, cabins, trails, fishing, boating and swimming. Plus, with Mount Graham so close by, you can explore longer trails during the day and return to your cozy campsite in the evening. Any time of year, Roper Lake is a great place to spend a day on the lake, and the kids will love the playground and model Indian village. Safford sits at a slightly higher elevation, so expect warm days and cooler nights—perfect for swimming and hanging out by the shore. Plus, Roper Lake is an excellent spot for birdwatching.
For a change of scenery, head to Safford,
The Lime Kiln Trail in north-central Ari-
Southern Arizona charm
Hiking adventure
Lyman Lake Camping
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zona is a fun hike that connects two amazing parks. Start at Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood and follow the trail all the way through to Red Rock. The changing scenery and topography will keep this 15-mile hike interesting every step of the way, and the trail is an experience you don’t want to miss.
Home base camp
Back at Dead Horse Ranch, mesquite bosques and canopies of cottonwood trees give campers privacy and outdoor recreationalists a break from the summer sun. A gentle, ever-present breeze sways and keeps the park cooler than the Valley. This high-desert destination is full of outdoor activities and gives visitors a chance to focus on one or try them all. A variety of shared-use trails, horseback riding, lagoon and river fishing, and kayaking opportunities are within short distance of more than 100 large RV campsites. The park location in Cottonwood is centralized to allow quick, easy travel to nearby parks in Sedona, Jerome and Camp Verde. Come along for this multipark adventure. Hang your hat at Dead Horse Ranch and explore north-central Arizona’s unforgettable culture, history and beauty. Michelle Thompson is the chief of communications at Arizona State Parks and Trails, which has more than 30 parks across the state. She has more than 20 years of experience in marketing and communications for various industries. Visit azstateparks.com for locations and things to do.
