Maricopa County Parks

Join us for the Hassayampa River Preserve's 'Kids Summer Day Camp' on July 8-10 from 7:30-11:00am each day! Registration is limited to 25 kids and this program is aimed at grades 2-6 (~ages 6-12), with registrants signing up to do all 3 mornings. Led by our Interpretive Rangers and sponsored by Friends of Hassayampa, each day will have a different subject theme, with an early morning hike before it gets too hot, followed by indoor interactive activities, arts and crafts, and snacks. All kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No additional fees for this program beyond park entry, which is free for children under age 13 and $5 per adult (Maricopa County Parks annual passes also accepted). For more information and registration details, please click on the link below:
https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/events/summer-day-camp-with-rangers-registration-required-limit-25-students/0708-0710261/

Why did the desert critters cross the road?

Because the other side had better shade, water, food, or shelter—and they had no idea there was traffic.

As temperatures rise, more desert wildlife can be found crossing park roads while traveling between habitats, especially around sunrise and sunset. Please slow down and stay alert for wildlife of all sizes.

If you encounter wildlife on the roadway, do not attempt to move or handle it. Give the animal space and allow it to continue on its own. If it appears injured or unable to move safely, contact the park and trained staff will assist.

A little extra care on park roads can help keep the critters that call the desert home safe.

All photos were taken at a safe distance or are zoomed in.

🕊️ ECO-BLITZ FUN FACT 🕊️

Did you know the oldest recorded White-winged Dove lived to be more than 21 years old? This remarkable bird was banded in Arizona in 1958 and later recovered in Mexico in 1980!

These desert birds are an important part of the Sonoran Desert ecosystem and can often be spotted throughout Maricopa County’s regional parks.

📍 Have you seen a White-winged Dove in one of our parks lately? Share your favorite bird sightings in the comments!

- Eco-Blitz program: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/about-us/eco-blitz/
- iNaturalist: https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/maricopa-county-parks-eco-blitz
- June park programs: https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/events/?F_m=6

Looking for something unique (and air conditioned) to do with the kids this summer? Come up to the Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant on Friday, June 19th, from 1-4pm for Maricopa County's first ever "STEAM Into Summer" event! We'll have staff on hand from Parks & Recreation, Flood Control, Vector Control, Storm Water, Air Quality, and other County departments with one major goal in mind: fun and interactive science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics themed activities that demonstrate how our County agencies serve you!

This event is family friendly and free! The Desert Outdoor Center is located at 41402 N 87th Ave. Peoria, AZ, 85383

This Memorial Day, we pause to remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

We also want to extend our deepest gratitude to all who have served and to those who continue to serve today. Your sacrifice, dedication, and commitment to protecting others are deeply appreciated, not just today, but every day.

Wishing everyone a meaningful and reflective Memorial Day.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park is currently experiencing high-volume traffic.

Please expect delays if you are trying to enter the park off of Castle Hot Springs Road.

Posted: Sunday, May 24 at 12:20 pm