by Geoff Weed

Created on: April 20, 2008   Last Updated: September 08, 2009

Phoenix is one of America's great tourist destinations. It is also the fifth most populous city in the nation. This combination of factors make recreational activities in the area fairly high-demand. But, if you're looking to get away from it all and avoid crowds, there's always the option to head out into nature and check out one of the local state parks. Here's a list of nearby parks that will help you get some time away and allow you to fully unwind, whether you're a long-time Arizona resident or a tourist:

-Picacho Peak State Park-

Picacho Peak State Park is a wonderful destination in which to take in some local beauty or enjoy a little bit of history. The park, which is located conveniently just off of I-10, is close enough to Phoenix to be a very comfortable day-trip. While you visit the park you can take in any of its many hiking trails, climb Picaho Peak, or enjoy a Civil War battle reenactment.

Nearby Attractions Include:

* The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

* The McFarland State Historic Park

* Firebird International Raceway

-Lost Dutchman State Park-

Lost Dutchman State Park is a place of truly magnificent natural beauty, and is one of the Phoenix area's top outdoor attractions. The park, which is named after an infamous lost gold mine, is open 365 days per year, from dawn until 10 pm. It offers hiking trails, a 70-site campsite, restrooms and showers, and a visitor's center full of helpful information about the area. A word to the wise, however, is that campfires are completely forbidden within the park, due to high risk of uncontrollable fire-spreading.

Nearby Attractions Include:

* Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

* Tonto National Forest

* Superstition Mountains

* Saguaro & Roosevelt Lakes

* Apache Trail & Apache Canyon

-Roper Lake State Park-

The Roper Lake State Park is the perfect Phoenix-area destination for those who want to get out into nature ... without leaving the comforts of home behind. Although camping is available, there are also cabins for rent, and the nearby town offers such citified activities as shopping, bowling, and cinema. Within the park itself there are campgrounds, wonderful fishing areas at stocked lakes, a natural hot springs bathing area, and gorgeous views. Roper Lake is open to guests from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, 365 days per year, but if you want to rent a cabin then advance reservations are highly recommended.

Nearby Attractions Include:

* Pinaleno Mountains

* Riggs Lake

* Coronado National Forest

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>