With its hot, dry climate, Chandler, AZ is the perfect place to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for an easy day trip or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of incredible state parks within driving distance of Chandler. From hiking trails, camping spots, and breathtaking views, these three parks are sure to give you the outdoor adventure you’ve been looking for.
3 Amazing State Parks in Driving Distance of Chandler, AZ
Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park park is located about 17 miles from Chandler, at 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson. The park has a lot to offer: camping sites, hiking trails, fishing spots, cabins and primitive houses, mountain biking trails, and more. You can even go horseback riding at Catalina State Park! This is a great option for families with kids who love horses.
The horseback riding season runs from May through October (weather permitting). There are also several lakes within the park that you can kayak or paddleboard in. You’ll find plenty of wildlife here, too, including deer, javelina, and other critters that live in the area. The best time to visit this park is during the spring or fall because it gets very hot in the summer months.
Alamo Lake State Park
If you’re looking for a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Alamo Lake State Park is the perfect place for you. The park is situated in the heart of the beautiful and rugged Patagonia-Sonoita National Forest. The park is known for its scenic beauty and hiking trails. The park also features a pristine, blue-colored lake.
The lake is nothing short of a photographer’s dream. It is famous for its “blue” color, which is caused by algae in the water. The park also offers camping and wildlife viewing opportunities. Alamo Lake is also home to a wide variety of birds, such as wood storks, sandhill cranes, eagles, and many more.
Lost Dutchman State Park
If you’re a fan of desert landscapes, then the Lost Dutchman State Park is the perfect place for you. The park has a wide variety of cactus species, including prickly pear cactus, saguaro cactus, and organ pipe cactus. The park also has a variety of wildlife. The park is home to several species of animals, including the desert tortoise, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and the famous mountain lions.
If you’re a photographer, the Lost Dutchman State Park is a great place for you. The park has scenic rocky terrain that is suitable for landscape photography. You can also climb the nearby mountains for some breathtaking views.
If you live or work in Chandler but haven’t explored the state park options around you, you owe it to yourself to visit one of these amazing destinations. Each offers a unique experience and will introduce you to a different side of Arizona. Some of these parks are a bit of a drive from Chandler, so make sure you’re driving a car with excellent gas mileage, like the new Subaru Crosstrek. Check one out at Subaru Superstore of Chandler today!
Photo Courtesy of Pexels
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