Dead Horse Ranch State Park off US 89A  Despite its distinctive name, Dead Horse Ranch is situated amidst an abundance of life along the Verde River.

A six-mile reach of the river is known as the Verde River Greenway. Its unique ecosystem, the Cottonwood / Willow riparian gallery forest, is one of less than 20 such riparian zones in the world. Life along the river changes with the seasons, giving visitors a glimpse of the numerous species of migrants, resident songbirds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.

The developed portion of Dead Horse Ranch State Park covers 423 acres. The 3,300 foot elevation accounts for the mild temperatures that are ideal for camping, mountain biking, hiking along the Verde River, canoeing, picnicking, fishing, or just wading in the cool water.  Approximately 90 miles north of Phoenix.

Slide Rock State Park is located in the heart of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon.  The park is named after the famous Slide Rock, a stretch of slippery creek bottom adjacent to the homestead.

Visitors may slide down a slick natural water chute or wade and sun along the creek.  Fishing, swimming and picnicking are favorite pastimes here.  Approximately 125 miles north of Phoenix.

Buckskin Mountain State Park is just north of Parker on AZ 95.  Buckskin Mountain State Park commands one of the finest views along the Parker strip, an 18-mile stretch between Parker Dam and Headgate Dam. Mountains line the river on both the Arizona and California sides, and the wildlife is as varied as the recreational opportunities along the river. This picturesque park provides scenic respite, mountain hikes, a desert escape and fun-filled water adventure.

The nearby  River Island about one mile north, is ideal for tent campers.

A sandy beach, cove, and boat launch area are also located at the River Island. In the summer, Buckskin and River Island are popular for boating, jet skiing, swimming and camping. In the winter, visitors appreciate the mild climate and enjoy camping, fishing and hiking in the park.  Approximately 10 miles northwest of Phoenix.

Lake Havasu State Park has two recreation areas—Cattail Cove and Windsor Beach. The scenic shoreline of Lake Havasu State Park is an ideal place to enjoy beautiful beaches, nature trails, boat ramps, and convenient campsites. This spot is truly a water sport haven located near the famous London Bridge of Lake Havasu City.   Approximately 190 miles northwest of Phoenix.

Roper Lake State Park is located off US route 191 near Stafford.  Located at the foot of Mt. Graham,  the park has camping facilities.  The lake is stocked seasonally and is off limits to gasoline powered boats. 

After a long day of driving or hiking, the natural hot springs at Roper Lake are not only inviting, they're invigorating! Roper Lake State Park provides a great place to spend a few days or just a few hours.

Desert vegetation, a peaceful lake and a view of Mount Graham, just a few miles away, frames a beautiful picture for visitors to enjoy.  Approximately 170 miles southeast of Phoenix

Lyman Lake State Park. Created as an irrigation reservoir by damming the Little Colorado River, this 1,200-acre park encompasses the shoreline of a 1,500-acre reservoir at an elevation of 6,000 feet. It is fed by snowmelt from the slopes of Mount Baldy and Escudilla Mountain, the second and third highest mountains in Arizona. Water is channeled into this river valley from a 790-square-mile watershed extending into New Mexico.

Because of its size, Lyman Lake is one of the few bodies of water in northeastern Arizona with no size restrictions on boats  Lyman Lake really comes into its own during the spring, summer, and fall.

Summer days, with temperature highs in the 80's to low 90's, are perfect for fishing, swimming, leisure boating, water-skiing, hiking or just plain relaxing.  Approximately 225 miles northwest of Phoenix.

Alamo Lake State Park  off US 60 at Wenden.  Alamo Lake State Park is one of Arizona's best kept secrets. The stark desert beauty is reflected off the water. Cacti dot the mountainous landscape that surround the lake.

Nestled in the Bill Williams River Valley away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Alamo Lake State Park offers outdoor fun, premier bass fishing, rest and relaxation.

For nature lovers, spring rains bring an abundance of wild flowers and the lake environment attracts a variety of wildlife year round, including bald and golden eagles, waterfowl, foxes, coyotes, mule deer and wild burros. Stargazers are sure to enjoy the unbelievable view of the night sky with the nearest city lights some forty miles away!   Approximately 140 miles northwest of Phoenix.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park Although this state park has no lake or fishing it is still technically water based.  Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world.

The bridge stands 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.  Approximately 250 miles northeast of Phoenix near Payson.