Arizona State Parks

Calendar of Events


Escape, Explore, Experience ...

Visit Arizona State Parks to experience wonderful events! Click on a month below to learn about events and activities for that month. For more information, please call the park at the telephone number listed below each event. Please note the "External Link" symbol means a link to an external site. Arizona State Parks is not responsible for information provided in external web sites. To learn more read our Privacy Policy. We look forward to seeing you at Arizona State Parks.

What's New

July 2008

August 2008

September 2008

October 2008

November 2008

Plein Air "Paint Out" Events 2008

Ongoing Events Listed by Park

 

 

 


 

Lizard July

July 4 - Lyman Lake State Park

4th of July Fireworks4th of July Fireworks! – Fire Over the Water

Come enjoy the fireworks by the lake!

The park will also be hosting Duck Races during the day.

Check it out! 928.337.4441

July 4 - Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Old-Fashioned Independence Day

Family Friendly EventFamily-style Independence Day Celebration with games for the kids, hot dogs and watermelon. Call park for details. (520) 398-2252

July 5 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Open After Hours — music with Mountain Rain

A popular new series of once-a-month Saturday evening hours at Boyce Thompson Arboretum continues July 5 with the "Mountain Rain" trio performing live music in the picnic area from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Invite friends and plan a barbecue in the picnic area; ther's no additional charge to enjoy the live music on these reduced-admission evenings.

Admission is $5-per-person after 3:00 p.m. -- a few select Saturdays this summer when the Arboretum will remain open from 3:00 until 8:00 so families can walk the trails in the late afternoon, use our picnic tables and charcoal grilles - and hear some of the Valley's talented musicians. Timed with the beginning of Arizona's monsoon season we have the "Mountain Rain" trio — Gary Kaplowitz, Ethan and Patty Rutkoff — scheduled for July 5 with music from 5:30 - 7:30. Alesa and Patty (with William Dreier joining in for few songs) will play from 5:30 - 6:30, and then Gary, Ethan and Patty will perform as "Mountain Rain" from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. For details please call Arboretum staff during daytime business hours from 6:00 am to 3:00 pm at (520) 689-2723.

July 8 - Picacho Peak State Park

Temporary Park Closure:  

Due to construction of a new Visitor Center, Picacho Peak State Park will be closed to all public entry starting July 8, 2008. Campers must check out by 2 pm on July 7. The park is scheduled to re-open in October 2008. Please check here for updates to this important construction project that will allow us to better serve park visitors. Thank you for your understanding.

July 8 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

The Museum of Northern Arizona turns 80!

Brown Bag Lunch Lectures: The Museum of Northern Arizona turns 80! Our hometown museum with a world-class reputation celebrates 80 years of existence in 2008. Hear about the people, collections, and public programs of our local treasure and some of the plans for the next 80 years from MNA research associate/historian Susan Olberding, Flagstaff Historian. At 12:15 pm (928) 779-4395

July 11 - Oracle State Park

Bat Night 2008 with Arizona Game and Fish

Family Friendly EventLearn more about bats and the important role they play in nature; AZGF researchers will set up nets at the ranch house to trap bats so the public can see them up close. 8:00 pm at the ranch house. Reservation suggested. Call for more information, (520) 896-2425

July 11–12-13 - Homolovi Ruins State Park

Suvoyuki DayAnnual Suvoyuki Day. and Morning Runs

Audio Update Listen to Audio Update about this event ->

Download Suvoyuki Schedule of Events ( PDF Document 197 KB PDF)

Download Map of current Archaeological Dig ( PDF Document 71 KB PDF)
Tours of archaeological site leave at 8:30 am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, June 16 to July 9. This tour will also be offered twice at Suvoyuki Day

"Suvoyuki" translated in the Hopi language means to accomplish work through at "joint effort." "Suvoyuki Day" is an open house day at Homolovi Ruins State Park that celebrates the partners who have helped to protect and save Homolovi area archaeological and cultural sites from destruction.

The event begins on Friday, July 11 at 7 p.m. with a talk about the Hopi culture.

On Saturday, July 12, the day begins at 6 a.m. with a traditional Hopi morning run (4 and 6.5 miles) with all participants invited. Following the run, the Hopi corn roasting pit will be opened and all will get a taste of freshly roasted sweet corn. Throughout the day, there will be Hopi artist demonstrations, traditional food demonstrations and lectures. Archaeologists will also be there to interpret the sites. Parking will be available on the northeast corner of Interstate 40 and State Route 87. Shuttle service will then be available from there to the park.

Pre-registration is available now at www.homolovi.com. There is a $10 registration fee that can be paid on the day of the run. You may also register the day of the run but must be there no later than 5 a.m. The run will begin promptly at 6 a.m. and will be on a cross-country trail course through the park. There will be t-shirts, refreshments and a prize drawing for run and walk participants. Begin the day with a Hopi prayer for life and strength on this run and walk.

On Sunday, July 13, visitors can travel north on Highway 87 to Sipaulovi Village, paralleling an ancient Hopi migration route to the community center at Second Mesa, Arizona. Sunday's events at Sipaulovi feature tours of the village, speakers, vendors of traditional foods, artists and other special activities including a Fun Run at 6 a.m.

Homolovi Ruins, one of a series of many ancient Hopi pueblos found in the Southwest, offers the public the opportunity to begin their journey into Hopi life and culture. Like the modern visitor making their way to Hopi, the Homolovi ancestral villages were a stop for the ancestral Hopi people along their migration route, eventually moving on and settling at one of the current Hopi villages. We can share their experience by viewing the village ruins that remain as cultural remnants of Hopi prehistory.

Hopi Tribal leaders and Arizona State Parks staff have been collaborating for five years to create a new model for park management and tourism to traditional Hopi lands which will preserve and protect the sacred culture, while offering special cultural tour opportunities for the public.

Read Press Release

July 12 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Evening Slide Presentation: West on Route 66 – Americans on the Move

Sean Evans, Librarian 7:00 pm. Free. Reservations are recommended due to limited availability. (928) 779-4395

July 12 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Learn Your Lizards Guided Walk

Desert Spiny lizards at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park sometimes can grow as big as bratwursts!See for yourself, and learn why lizards do those comical pushups — attend the monthly "Learn Your Lizards" walk July 12 at 8:30 a.m. Weekend nature tours are admission-free if you have a state parks annual pass, or $7.50 for adults ($3 for ages 5-12). Kids enjoy this popular tour — bring your kids, grandkids, nephews or nieces to learn about our most common Sonoran desert reptiles. This entertaining guided tour shows participants how to identify common lizard species such as Western whiptail, Side-blotched and Greater Earless.

Author Tom Brennan, from Tempe, is the special guest tour guide along with University of AZ reptile researcher Phil Rosen and also the Arizona Game & Fish Department's Randy Babb. Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat -- and bring along binoculars for the best close-up views of these engaging little reptiles.

To read more about the tour and see photos, visit the expanded website

July 13 - Red Rock State Park

First Sunday at Red Rock

Dennis Jex will present “Close Encounters of the Reptilian Kind.” Come and enjoy a fun and educational presentation about snakes. See a slide presentation and live snake display! Learn how to treat or (better yet) avoid snakebite. Find out how to safely relocate a snake, if necessary. Live snakes will be used to enhance your “up close and personal” educational experience.

Do you know that there are snakes that are specialists at eating termites? Other snakes eat scorpions, centipedes, cockroaches and other insects. Are Mohave Green Rattlesnakes really common around Sedona? Do you know the very first thing to do if bitten by a rattlesnake? Find out the answer to these and many other questions during this fun presentation. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. 2:00 pm in the theatre. (928) 282-6907

July 17 - Red Rock State Park

Moonlight HikeMoonlight Hike

An unforgettable experience, this hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive program on the park’s beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. Hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center.

Please wear suitable clothing (prepare for cool nights) and bring water and a flashlight. 7:00 pm. (928) 282-6907 Note: Visitors are not allowed to join the hike once it leaves at the designated time so please be on time.

July 18 - Oracle State Park

Dessert in the Desert

This is the kick-off event for our Fiesta de las Calabazas in the fall. There will be music, pot-luck goodies, beverages, and lots of fun. Sign up to volunteer or help with the planning of the festival. 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. (520) 896-2425

July 19 - Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area

Plein Air Paint Out EventPlein Air Artist “Paint Out”

Arizona State Parks and Arizona Plein Air Painters External Link are sponsoring live outdoor painting competitions with painting from 8:00 am - Noon. At noon, the artists will gather to judge their peers completed work.

Artists are welcome to bring their easels, brushes drop cloth canvas and capture scenes around the park. This is a series of “paint outs” planned throughout the year at Arizona State Parks. See other dates and parks.

July 26 - McFarland State Historic Park

Women’s 19th Century Clothing & 19th Century Cowboy Tools of the TradeWomen’s 19th Century Clothing & 19th Century Cowboy Tools of the Trade

Ranger Terri Leverton will discuss and show examples of Victorian and frontier clothing at 11:00 am while Ranger Christopher De Mille will discuss and show examples of 19th century cowboy firearms, clothing and equipment at 1:00 pm.

(520) 868-5216

 

Saguaro Cactus August

August TBA - Oracle State Park

Bug Fest 2008

Join entomologist Michael Wilson for this educational and family friendly event. Please call the park for more information. (520) 896-2425

August 2 - Sonoita Creek State Natural Area

Boating Safety Class

Learn about boat registration requirements, Arizona and Federal boating laws, equipment requirements, navigation rules, trailering your boat, aids to navigation (buoys) and other useful information.  This is a State and Federally approved Boating Safety Class. Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate and an ID card. Sponsored by Arizona Game and Fish Department.  Class is from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Call to register. (520) 287-2791

August 2 - Red Rock State Park

First Sunday at Red Rock

Art Smith, a retired geologist and geophysicist of the oil and gas industry, will present “Volcanoes of Northern Arizona.” Beginning about 15 million years ago and continuing to the present day, northern Arizona has been the site of significant volcanic activity. This presentation will describe the wide variety of volcanic features in the Flagstaff and Verde Valley areas, and explain the geology behind their creation. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. The presentation is free with admission to the park. 2:00 pm in the theater. (928) 282-6907

August 9 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Learn Your Lizards Guided Walk

Desert Spiny lizards at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park sometimes can grow as big as bratwursts!See for yourself, and learn why lizards do those comical pushups — attend the monthly "Learn Your Lizards" walk July 12 at 8:30 a.m. Weekend nature tours are admission-free if you have a state parks annual pass, or $7.50 for adults ($3 for ages 5-12). Kids enjoy this popular tour — bring your kids, grandkids, nephews or nieces to learn about our most common Sonoran desert reptiles. This entertaining guided tour shows participants how to identify common lizard species such as Western whiptail, Side-blotched and Greater Earless.

Guest tour guide is Casa Grande ecologist and reptile enthusiast "Wild Man Phil" Rakoci. And mark your calendars for the "Sunday Special" lizard walk at 9:30 a.m. on September 7. Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat -- and bring along binoculars for the best close-up views of these engaging little reptiles.

To read more about the tour and see photos, visit the expanded website

August 9 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Evening Slide Presentation: Popular Music of the Riordan Years

At the turn of the 20th century, family entertainment often consisted of gathering around the piano, playing and singing popular songs of the time. The Riordans were a musical family and remained so throughout their entire lives in Flagstaff. The three pianos, large collection of sheet music and record players in the two residences are clear evidence of their love of music. Join us for a generous sampling of the vintage music the Riordans especially enjoyed. 7:00 pm Free. Reservations are recommended due to limited availability. Presented by Erik Larson, Volunteer, Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. (928) 779-4395

August 12 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Brown Bag Lunch Lectures: County Hospital Celebrates 100 years

Joe Meehan, Pioneer Museum 12:15 pm. (928) 779-4395

August 12-16 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Monarch Tagging Field Trips

Education Coordinator Chris Kline invites volunteers to help search for monarch butterflies – then capture & tag adults – on field research trips to Jacob’s Lake from Aug. 12-15 and Springerville Aug. 16. Canelo Aug. 30 and Sept. 14; Hereford Sept. 6, and along the Blue River Oct. 2–4, and in the Hualapai Mountains Oct. 15–17. To learn more about these research field trips, call Chris Kline at (520) 689-2723 or email ckline@ag.arizona.edu

August 16 - Red Rock State Park

Moonlight Hike

An unforgettable experience, this hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive program on the park’s beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. Hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center. No Late arrivals may join. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes, and bring water, insect spray and a flashlight. 6:30 pm. (928) 282-6907

August 16 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

The Arizona Rough Riders (Living History Presentation)

The Arizona Rough Riders is a commemorative group that brings the Spanish/American War era (1898) to life for audiences. The governor of Arizona has given the Arizona Rough Riders a special commission as the “Official Spanish/American War Reenactment Group” for the State of Arizona. Dressed in authentic costumes of the famous Rough Riders and their ladies, and carrying 100-year old weapons for the public's examination, the Arizona Rough Riders describe the era, the war, the effects, and the social mores of turn of the century America. The troop depicted actually came from Prescott 100 years ago. Flagstaff men also went to the war in the famous "cowboy cavalry".

The Rough Riders are the most famous ‘all volunteer unit’ in the history of the US Military. 10:00am – 4:00pm

August 17 & 23 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Opuntia Punch (“How-To-Juice-A-Prickly-Pear”) Classes

Have you ever sipped a prickly pear fruit margarita or nibbled candy made from cactus fruit? If so, you know that nothing compares to the subtle flavor and outrageous magenta color of juice from the prickly pear cactus that can be harvested throughout Arizona. This informal hour-long class is offered near the end of summer when prickly pear fruit ripen. Learn how to harvest opuntia cactus fruits and extract the juice without turning your hands into a “porcupine” of painful glochids and cactus spines. Apache Junction author Jean Groen (“Foods of the Superstitions”) is the harvest season guest for each of these class dates. (520) 689-2811

August 21 - Homolovi Ruins State Park

Speaker

Speaker and meeting of the Homolovi Chapter of the Arizona Archaeology Society. Homolovi Visitor Center at 7:00 pm. (928) 289-4106

August 23 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Plein Air Paint Out EventPlein Air Artist “Paint Out”

Arizona State Parks and Arizona Plein Air Painters External Link are sponsoring live outdoor painting competitions with painting from 8:00 am - Noon. At noon, the artists will gather to judge their peers completed work.

Artists are welcome to bring their easels, brushes drop cloth canvas and capture scenes around the park. This is a series of “paint outs” planned throughout the year at Arizona State Parks. See other dates and parks.

 

 

Pima Basket September

September 1 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Opuntia Punch (“How-To-Juice-A-Prickly-Pear”) Classes

Have you ever sipped a prickly pear fruit margarita or nibbled candy made from cactus fruit? If so, you know that nothing compares to the subtle flavor and outrageous magenta color of juice from the prickly pear cactus that can be harvested throughout Arizona. This informal hour-long class is offered near the end of summer when prickly pear fruit ripen. Learn how to harvest opuntia cactus fruits and extract the juice without turning your hands into a “porcupine” of painful glochids and cactus spines. Apache Junction author Jean Groen (“Foods of the Superstitions”) is the harvest season guest for each of these class dates. (520) 689-2811

September 7 - Red Rock State Park

First Sunday at Red Rock

Kathy Sullivan, Condor Coordinator for Arizona Game and Fish Department, will present “California Condors in Arizona.” Visitors will learn about the Condor Reintroduction Program in Arizona. Find out how biologists have brought these amazing birds back from the brink of extinction. Learn how many condors live in Arizona, where you can go to so see them, how many chicks have hatched in the wild, what obstacles the condors face in Arizona, and what you can do to help conserve these prehistoric giants. Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Presentation is free with paid admission to the park. 2:00 pm in the theater. (928) 282-6907

September 7 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Learn Your Lizards Guided Walk

Desert Spiny lizards at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park sometimes can grow as big as bratwursts!See for yourself, and learn why lizards do those comical pushups — attend the monthly "Learn Your Lizards" walk July 12 at 8:30 a.m. Weekend nature tours are admission-free if you have a state parks annual pass, or $7.50 for adults ($3 for ages 5-12). Kids enjoy this popular tour — bring your kids, grandkids, nephews or nieces to learn about our most common Sonoran desert reptiles. This entertaining guided tour shows participants how to identify common lizard species such as Western whiptail, Side-blotched and Greater Earless.

"Sunday Special" lizard walk at 9:30 a.m. on September 7. Wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat -- and bring along binoculars for the best close-up views of these engaging little reptiles.

To read more about the tour and see photos, visit the expanded website

September 9 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Brown Bag Lunch Lectures: Pendley Family History

Kathy Pendley-Shaw 12:15 pm. (928) 779-4395

September 12 & 13 - Lake Havasu State Park

AZ Bass Federation tournament

100 boats fishing for bass, weigh in 3:00 pm, info at www.arizonabassnation.com External Link (928) 855-2784

September 13 & 14 - Oracle State Park

Papermaking with Desert Plants Workshop

Instructor Val Bembenek uses her "wild" papers to strengthen people's appreciation of nature. You’ll learn how, when and where to collect appropriate plant stuff, how to cook and beat the materials into fine fibers, and how to form textured, naturally-colored sheets with a traditional mould and deckle from vats of pulp. Leave the class with 6-8 sheets to dry at home and make into stationery to send or keep. 1:00 – 4:00 pm at the ranch house. $20 includes the park entrance fee. Space is limited! Reservation required. (520) 896-2425.

September 14 - Red Rock State Park

Moonlight Hike

An unforgettable experience, this hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive program on the park’s beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. Hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 5:30 pm. No late arrivals will be allowed to join the group. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes, and bring water, a flashlight and insect spray. (928) 282-6907

September 14 - Red Rock State Park

Geology Hike

Park volunteers will escort visitors on a guided hike through the park, discussing the geology of the area. This hike includes the Eagles Nest trail for a great view of the park and the surrounding area. More than just a guided hike, this is an interpretive experience for the beginner as well as advanced geologist. The hike lasts for 2 – 2.5 hours and has a 250-foot elevation climb. Enjoy an afternoon with our knowledgeable volunteer guides as they explain the rock formations that create the scenic backdrop of Red Rock State Park. Bring water and wear suitable shoes or boots. 2:00 pm. (928) 282-6907

September 14 - Slide Rock State Park

Apple Fest

Now in its 4th year, the Apple Fest is the place to experience homemade arts and crafts, bands, kids games, u-pick apples (in season), and interpretive programming. Join the fun! 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. (928) 282-3034 (FF)

September 26 & 27 - Lake Havasu State Park

National Bass West Tournament

100 boats fishing for bass, weigh in 3:00 pm, more info at www.nationalbasswest.com External Link (928) 855-2784

September 27 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Bye-Bye Buzzards Day

A signature Autumnal event is this seasonal salute to Boyce Thompson Arboretum’s migrant flock of Turkey Vultures before the huge black birds fly south to spend their winter months in Mexico. Celebrate ornithology and learn about Turkey Vultures, misunderstood scavengers that play an integral role in our Sonoran desert ecosystem. Arrive early to observe the resident vultures from 7:00 – 8:30 am, then attend an 8:30 am birdwalk guided by Arboretum volunteers and staff. Exhibitors include Desert Rivers Audubon Society and the popular Arizona Game & Fish Department wildlife rehab volunteers with their birds, reptiles and small mammals from 8:00 am – 2:00 pm. 7:00 am – 2:00 pm (520) 689-2811

Septmeber 27 - Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Plein Air Paint Out EventPlein Air Artist “Paint Out”

Arizona State Parks and Arizona Plein Air Painters External Link are sponsoring live outdoor painting competitions with painting from 8:00 am - Noon. At noon, the artists will gather to judge their peers completed work.

Artists are welcome to bring their easels, brushes drop cloth canvas and capture scenes around the park. This is a series of “paint outs” planned throughout the year at Arizona State Parks. See other dates and parks.

September 27 & 28 - Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Verde River Days

Celebrate the Verde with fun activities, canoeing, interpretive walks, climbing wall, fishing (license required), exhibits, and more! Re-enactments on Sunday the 28th. Saturday is free! 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (928) 634-5283

 

 

Pima Basket October

October 1 - Lake Havasu State Park

Carson and Barnes Circus

The London Bridge Lions club presents two performances of a circus with elephants! Additional fee charged; more info at www.candbcircus.com External Link (928) 855-2784

October 4 - Oracle State Park

Edible and Medicinal Plant Walk

Herbalist, teacher and author, Charlie Kane, will discuss edible and medicinal usages, identification, collection, preparations and cautions on a trail walk at the park from 8:00 am to noon. $20 fee; reservation required. Call the park for more information. (520) 896-2425

October 5 - Red Rock State Park

First Sunday at Red Rock

HBrooks D. Simpson, professor of history at Arizona State University, will present “American Presidential Elections in Historical Perspective.” Americans will elect a new president in November. How has the selection and election process evolved throughout the period since the first election in 1789? What characteristics have remained largely unchanged? How do candidates and parties appeal to voters? What role do issues play? By setting the answers to these and other questions in historical perspective, this presentation will give us a greater understanding of the American political process and the degree to which the more things change, the more they remain the same. The Arizona Humanities Council and the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park sponsor this program. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited. Program is free with paid admission to the park. 2:00 pm in the theater. (928) 282-6907

October 10-26 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Fall Plant Sale

Autumn is harvest season; also the time to plant herbs and the right season to prepare your spring flower garden. Stock up during this annual fundraiser that helps support botany education and conservation at Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Staff horticulturists and groundskeepers are available daily to answer your plant questions. (520) 689-2811

October 10 & 11 - Lake Havasu State Park

LHC Lions Striper Derby

Striper derby fundraiser; call Constant at (928) 505-5240 for more info. (928) 855-2784

October 11-12 - Fort Verde State Historic Park

Annual Fort Verde Days

The park’s premier event includes living history presentations, weapons demonstrations and portrayal of life on the frontier as it was in the late 1870s – all taking place at an original military site. (928) 567-3275

October 11 - Lake Havasu State Park

National Bass West Tournament

60 boats fishing for bass, weigh in 3:00 pm; more info at www.nationalbasswest.com External Link (928) 855-2784

October 12 - Red Rock State Park

Geology Hike

A park volunteer will escort visitors on a guided hike through the park, discussing the geology of the area. This hike includes the Eagle’s Nest trail for a great view of the park and the surrounding area. More than just a guided hike, this is an interpretive experience for the beginner as well as advanced geologist. The hike lasts for 2 – 2.5 hours and has a 250-foot elevation climb. Enjoy an afternoon with our knowledgeable volunteer guide as he explains the rock formations that create the scenic backdrop of Red Rock State Park. Bring water and wear suitable shoes or boots. 2:00 pm. (928) 282-6907

October 14 - Riordan Mansion State Historic Park

Brown Bag Lunch Lectures: History of Flagstaff Maps

Alex DiNatale at 12:15 pm. (928) 779-4395

October 14 - Red Rock State Park

Moonlight Hike

An unforgettable experience, this hike includes a naturalist-led interpretive program on the park’s beautiful trails. Enjoy the sunset and moonrise from an overlook and return by the light of the moon. Hike leaves promptly from the Visitor Center at 5:00 pm. No late arrivals will be allowed to join the hike. Please wear suitable clothing and shoes, and bring water, a flashlight and insect spray. This will be the last hike of the season. Hikes will resume in April 2009. (928) 282-6907

October 17 & 18 - Lake Havasu State Park

WON Bass Tournament

100 boats fishing for bass, weigh in at 3:00 pm, more info at www.wonbass.com External Link

October 18 - Sonoita Creek State Natural Area

Boating Safety Class

Learn about boat registration requirements, Arizona and Federal boating laws, equipment requirements, navigation rules, trailering your boat, aids to navigation (buoys) and other useful information.  This is a State and Federally approved Boating Safety Class. Upon successful completion, students will receive a certificate and an ID card. Sponsored by Arizona Game and Fish Department.  Class is from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Call to register. (520) 287-2791

October 18 & 19 - Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park

2008 Power From the Past Antique Engine Show

Antique engine show will be held during Tombstone’s Helldorado Days. (520) 457-3311

October 18 & 19 - Tubac Presidio State Historic Park

Anza Days

Come join us for an annual cultural event celebrating the 1775 Anza Expedition. Mass is at Tumacacori Mission on Saturday, Anza Ride re-enactment on Saturday, Native dancers, lectures, Spanish history, and Tubaqueños demonstrations. (520) 398-2252

October 25 - Oracle State Park

Fiesta de las Calabazas

Join us for our 9th Annual Pumpkin Festival, bringing art, music, lots of kids’ activities, food and fun to Oracle State Park. 10:00 am – TBA. (520) 896-2425

October 25 - Lake Havasu State Park

WON Bass Tournament

60 boats fishing for bass; weigh in at 3:00 pm; more info at www.wonbass.com External Link (928) 855-2784

October 25 - Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park

Haunted Tours

Come join us for a nighttime tour of the infamous Yuma Prison. Ghostly legends that haunt the pen come alive with the Park Rangers and Yuma’s own paranormal investigators, the Yuma Spirithunters. (928) 783-4771

 

Saguaro Cactus November

November 7-9 - Lake Havasu State Park

London Bridge Float Fly

R/C Model airplanes flying off Windsor 4 beach; FREE to the public, more info at www.deserthawksrc.com External Link (928) 855-2784

November 28 & 29 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Fall Foliage Finale Festival

During the annual Thanksgiving weekend Fall Foliage Finale Festival, bring your drop cloth, brushes and easel. Glorious autumn foliage is at peak around Thanksgiving at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, capture garden scenes on canvas alongside members of the Mesa Art League and Arizona Plein Air Painters.

November 28 & 29 - Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Plein Air Paint Out EventPlein Air Artist “Paint Out”

Arizona State Parks and Arizona Plein Air Painters External Link are sponsoring live outdoor painting competitions with painting from 8:00 am - Noon. At noon, the artists will gather to judge their peers completed work.

Artists are welcome to bring their easels, brushes drop cloth canvas and capture scenes around the park. This is a series of “paint outs” planned throughout the year at Arizona State Parks. See other dates and parks.

 

 

 

Poppy Flowers Photograph Plein Air Artist "Paint Outs"

Plein Air Artist “Paint Outs”

Plein Air Paint Out EventArizona State Parks and and Arizona Plein Air Painters External Link are sponsoring live outdoor painting competitions with painting from 8:00 am - Noon. At noon, the artists will gather to judge their peers completed work. Artists are welcome to bring their easels, brushes drop cloth canvas and capture scenes around the park. This is a series of “paint outs” planned throughout the year at Arizona State Parks. Listen to an Audio Update that discusses what “paint outs” are.

January 26, 2008 at Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
March 22, 2008 at Lost Dutchman State Park
May 10, 2008 at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
July 19, 2008 at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area
August 23, 2008 at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
September 27, 2008 at Dead Horse Ranch State Park (Verde River Days)
November 28 & 29 at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park (Fall Festival)

 

Poppy Flowers Photograph On-Going

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park (520) 689-2811

Cattail Cove State Park (928) 855-1223

March - Join rangers, volunteers and guest speakers on a variety of talks and walks that will be fun for the whole family. Some topics explored are desert bighorn sheep, venomous creatures, coyotes, hummingbirds and stargazing. Contact the park or the Interpretive Education Coordinator at (928) 855-4192 to learn more about these entertaining and educational programs, or to request a copy of our ranger talk brochure and calendar.

Homolovi Ruins State Park (928) 289-4106

Jerome State Historic Park (928) 634-5381

Programs are scheduled throughout the year. Please call for the current schedule

Kartchner Caverns State Park (520) 586-4100

Join staff and special guests as they reveal surprises about above ground treasures of the park. Monthly, a variety of topics are explored such as bats, snakes, mining, map & compass, worms, and javelinas. Contact park to learn more about these guided walks, activities, and shows, or to request a copy of the “above ground” interpretive program schedule.

Lake Havasu State Park (928) 855-2784

Join staff as they reveal surprises about above ground treasures of the park. Monthly, a variety of topics are explored such as bats, snakes, mining, map & compass, worms, and javelinas. Contact park to learn more about these guided walks, activities, and shows, or to request a copy of the “above ground” interpretive program schedule..

Lost Dutchman State Park (480) 980-4485

Lyman Lake State Park (480) 980-4485

Oracle State Park (520) 896-2425

Red Rock State Park (928) 282-6907

Riordan Mansion State Park (928) 779-4395

Guided tours of the house: Daily at the top of the hour, first tour at 11am. Hour—long guided tour of the historic Riordan family homes filled with original family belongings, including Stickley furniture.  The story of the family, the architecture of the house, and Flagstaff history are discussed. Reservations recommended.

Roper Lake State Park (928) 428-6760

Sonoita Creek State Natural Area (520) 287-2791

Tubac Presidio State Historic Park (520) 398-2252

Los Tubaquenos Living History Program, Sun. from 1-4pm, March Los Tubaquenos presents life at the Tubac Presidio from 1752-1776. Come join the lives of the men, women and children who worked and played on the Spanish Frontier. Sample foods, see weavers in action, and learn about fashions and woodworking.

 

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