Arizona state park “rocks” for a full year

One of America’s newest state parks is celebrating a successful first year.

On February 8, Rockin’ River Ranch State Park in Arizona will mark its first 1-year anniversary. The park was opened near Sedona last year to great fanfare by Arizona State Parks and Trails.

Arizona’s parks authority says the state park with an unusual name has had a very successful first year.

“More than 6,400 visitors have explored the park, marking a strong start for one of Arizona’s newest outdoor destinations,” ASPT said.

Officials are organizing celebratory events on February 8 to mark the occasion. They’re hoping for better weather this time around.

On its opening day last year, rain drenched the park and the event. Nevertheless, Governor Katie Hobbs, Arizona state legislators, and other officials and state parks stakeholders turned up to celebrate more public land becoming accessible to the state’s residents and visitors.

ASPT says it will be offering guided hikes at the park to showcase “the park’s scenic trails, rich history, and diverse wildlife, offering visitors a chance to connect with Arizona’s natural beauty.”

Arizona has been experiencing surging population growth. In light of that, ASPT officials argued that it only made sense to expand the area of park space and trails for the public to enjoy.

“By creating wonderful public open spaces like this, we are preserving our lands for future generations, like all of you who are lucky enough to reside near this park,” Arizona State Parks Board Chair Dale Larsen said in a statement.

Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is a former ranch acquired by the state in 2008. It’s about 209 acres or almost 85 hectares in area and features six separate hiking trails “available for mountain biking, equestrian riding, hiking, wildlife watching, birding, and fishing access along the Verde River.” The trail system is said to be about four miles or more than six kilometers long.

Deer, javelinas, blue herons, river otters, jackrabbits, foxes, coyotes, and other wildlife can be spotted there by lucky visitors.

There are also restrooms, a gift shop, and a picnicking area.

Unusual for public lands, Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is only open to the public on weekends.

“Right now, the park is only open on weekends due to staffing availability,” ASPT Deputy Assistant Director Michelle Thompson told Public Parks.

That may change if the Arizona state parks system beefs up staffing.

“We would love to be able to have the park open more,” Thompson said. “As you may know, Arizona State Parks and Trails is self-sustaining, which means that funding for all of our park operations comes from the fees we collect for camping, day-use, and tours. If we are able to bring in more revenue, adding staff would be one of the changes we would definitely make to help expand operating hours.”

However, the park would still be available for day use only, she added.“Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is planned to be a rustic park with no camping at this time.”