Arizonans enjoy more than 30 state parks, and each one has its own unique attractions. If you’re looking for the most spectacular desert scenery ever, there’s one park that stands out from the rest. Have you visited Lost Dutchman State Park?

You'll find Lost Dutchman State Park on the edge of the Tonto National Forest. It's about 40 miles directly east of Phoenix.
CMbarbie/Tripadvisor
The park encompasses 320 acres, and it got its name from a fascinating legend.
Captains_Rum_Punch /Tripadvisor
Once you get a look at this park, you'll see how someone could lose an entire gold mine. The desert is seemingly endless, inviting visitors to explore its enchanted mysteries.
Erin A/Tripadvisor
According to the story, the Peralta family found a gold mine in the Superstition Mountains in the 1840s. All but a few members of the family were killed, but rumors of the mine's location persisted.
Captains_Rum_Punch /Tripadvisor
Jacob Waltz, whose nickname was "The Dutchman," claimed to have found the mine during the 1870s, and he hid several caches of gold somewhere in the mountains.

When Waltz died, he may have been the last person to know the true location of the mine, and no one has rediscovered it since...so it's forever known as the "Lost Dutchman Mine."
demicent/Tripadvisor

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One of the most obvious things to do at Lost Dutchman State Park is to simply take note of the natural landscape. The vibrant plants and plentiful wildlife might surprise you!
Diane D/Tripadvisor
This hardy teddy bear cholla is proof that even a harsh desert climate is home to many beautiful, living things.
There's no doubt about it; the best way to explore Lost Dutchman State Park is by hiking one of its six trails.
Gezy-Pics/flickr
Bring a snack or lunch with you when you visit; there's nothing like dining while enjoying a view like this!
jolieee/Tripadvisor
You'll have a hard time tearing yourself away from this park at the end of the day. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to camp at Lost Dutchman State Park.
Jaap V/Tripadvisor
If you're camping overnight, you'll be able to witness one of the most spectacular sunsets you've ever seen.
Mike H/Tripadvisor
And just wait until you see the night sky!

What’s your favorite state park in Arizona? Tell us in the comments! And don’t forget to share photos of your epic adventures in our Arizona Nature Lovers Facebook group for a chance to see them featured.

With so many incredible attractions in Arizona, it’s easy to overlook a few. Check out these 9 great destinations that you might be missing.

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