Arizona public parks enthusiasts now have a new attraction to enjoy in their beautiful state.
Last weekend, residents and visitors to the Grand Canyon State had their first opportunity to try out Rockin’ River Ranch State Park. Located close to the geographic center of the state, the curiously named state park can be found about midway between the communities of Payson and Prescott.
Governor of Arizona Katie Hobbs spoke at the park’s grand opening last Thursday. Rockin’ River Ranch was opened to the public on Friday.
The grand opening ceremony was greeted with inclement weather. Pouring rain welcomed attendees, but local media reports say that the rain cleared up just long enough for Hobbs to deliver her speech.
Arizona State Parks and Trails says the newest recreation attraction under its management will be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays for day-use only. No explanation was given for why the park will be closed from Mondays to Thursdays.
“Being able to share this beautiful space is something that our agency has been working toward for more than a decade, and we are excited to open the park and welcome visitors,” said ASPT Executive Director Bob Broscheid in a release.
The new park is a former ranch acquired by the state in 2008. The state’s parks authority says Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is 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 6 kilometers long.
There are also restrooms, a gift shop, and a picnicking area.
The parks authority urges visitors to come and enjoy “riparian and high desert land with stunning views of the Camp Verde area” but warns that Rockin’ Ranch State Park is less developed than some other state parks in its system. The gift shop is the only publicly accessible building and visitors are advised to bring plenty of their own water since there are no water fountains.
Information shared in ASPT’s announcement says that Rockin’ River Ranch was previously used as a guest ranch and a place where equestrian enthusiasts could board and ride their horses. Rockin’ River Ranch has its own designated website featuring information and a downloadable map of the park.
“Rockin’ River is a ‘get out there and experience it’ kind of park,” Arizona State Parks says on the park’s website. “With over four miles of trails and a huge stretch of Verde River shoreline accessible in the park, there are plenty of outdoor recreation options available to keep you engaged with nature.”
The site features photos of some of the park’s biodiversity. Deer, javelinas, blue herons, river otters, jackrabbits, foxes, coyotes, and more can be spotted there.
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Park Info
Park Name:
Rockin’ River Ranch State Park
Location:
Arizona, USA
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