10 Secret Parks Of Arizona You’ve Never Heard Of But Need To Visit

I love finding secret treasures around the state, whether it’s a secluded restaurant, a cabin standing among in the pines, or even a trail hiding in plain sight. In keeping with this theme, today we’re going to take a look at some parks in Arizona that often fall under the radar. You’re going to love checking out these places—some secluded in the desert, others abandoned—for their quiet, natural spaces. Let’s take a look!

Alamo Lake State Park/Facebook

Located in a secluded area of western Arizona, the closest town to this state park is Wenden (which sits on the road between Quartzsite and Wickenburg). This park is known for its fishing opportunities but also the scenic desert landscape that surrounds the lake. If you plan your travel just right, you may be able to see the lake surrounded by wildflowers and even spot an eagle or two in the area.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Arizona State Parks

Desert LCC/Flickr

This quiet refuge is also located in western Arizona near Parker and is the perfect spot to watch migrating birds fly in. You can also enjoy a morning canoeing on the river or walking one of the short trails.

Location: Google Maps
Details: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

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Bureau of Land Management/Flickr

Located in the extremely remote Arizona Strip, this section of the state takes you into a portion of Arizona’s under-explored wilderness. In addition to seeing a different side of the Grand Canyon, you’ll also be able to see a few remote historical sites. Just remember to drive a high-clearance vehicle and check the weather conditions before visiting.

Location: Google Maps
Details: National Park Service

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Kent Kanouse/Flickr

Located west of Cameron on the way to the Grand Canyon, this park will show off just how different Arizona’s canyons can appear. Following the Little Colorado River, this displays the stark landscape that defines this area of northern Arizona.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation

Martin Ely/Flickr

Located about 20 minutes north of Winslow, this park has turned into a forgotten overlook of some spectacular badlands. Colorful and almost always empty, the Little Painted Desert is the perfect spot to enjoy a quiet afternoon before continuing on the road.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Only In Arizona article

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Alan English CPA/Flickr

This park is hidden away on the Navajo Nation, about 30 minutes from Kayenta. Here among the canyons and mesas, you’ll find two well-preserved cliff dwellings and strenuous hikes to reach them.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Only In Arizona article

Robin J Phillips/Flickr

Who knew you could find a wildlife refuge in the middle of a Phoenix suburb? This small park shows that even cities can provide a bit of conservation and refuge for our animal relatives. You’ll find plenty of birds resting here in between migration and easy to traverse trails that covers 4.5 miles.

Location: 2757 East Guadalupe Road, Gilbert
Details: City of Gilbert

Bureau of Land Management/Flickr

Located in Sierra Vista down to the U.S.-Mexican border, this riparian area is the perfect spot to watch wildlife, enjoy a quiet walk along the river banks, or even a bit of fishing. Nearby, you’ll also find bits of Arizona history: a mammoth kill site that dates back 11,000 years ago and the ruins of an old Spanish presidio.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Bureau of Land Management

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Arizona State Parks/Flickr

This preserve is located next to Patagonia Lake State Park, just 10 miles north of Nogales. You can enjoy a few hiking trails, campsites, and horse trails in this quiet area while basking in the isolated feeling of this area.

Location: 400 Patagonia Lake Road, Patagonia
Details: Arizona State Parks

Ron Cogswell/Flickr

Talk about a picturesque sight! This small park is hidden away near the Navajo Nation’s government offices and council chambers. Here, you’ll find a small walking path, a memorial to Navajo veterans, and the captivating rock formation in the background.

Location: Google Maps
Details: Navajo Nation Parks & Recreation

These places looked incredible! Which one do you hope to visit this weekend?

Since the fall season is almost here, you’ll probably want to check out some parks to see the changing leaves. Read The Fall Foliage At These 6 State Parks In Arizona Is Stunningly Beautiful for some of our favorite spots!