Welcome to Maricopa County Parks and Recreation
Maricopa County is home to one of the largest regional park systems in the nation, with more than 120,000 acres of protected Sonoran Desert open space. The system includes hundreds of miles of trails, campgrounds, nature centers, and the Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant.
Our parks welcome millions of visitors each year, offering a wide range of outdoor experiences for all ages, abilities, and interests. Whether you’re hiking a barrier-free trail, horseback riding through scenic desert landscapes, or exploring by mountain bike, there is something for everyone—just a short drive from the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Explore Our Parks
Maricopa County’s regional park system includes:
- Adobe Dam Regional Park
- Buckeye Hills Regional Park
- Cave Creek Regional Park
- Estrella Mountain Regional Park
- Hassayampa River Preserve
- Lake Pleasant Regional Park
- Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant*
- McDowell Mountain Regional Park
- San Tan Mountain Regional Park
- Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
- Usery Mountain Regional Park
- Vulture Mountains Recreation Area
- White Tank Mountain Regional Park
*Access to the Desert Outdoor Center is primarily by reservation, except during designated public programs and events.
Our Mission and Vision
Vision
We connect people with nature through regional parks, trails, and programs. We inspire an appreciation for the Sonoran Desert' beauty and natural open spaces where you can create meaningful, lifelong positive memories.
Mission
Through responsible stewardship, we provide high-quality parks, trails, programs, services, and experiences that energize visitors and create lifelong users and advocates.
How We Serve You
Our team is dedicated to maintaining safe, accessible, and enjoyable park experiences. In addition to full-time staff, we work closely with park hosts and volunteers who support daily operations, programs, and conservation efforts.
Revenue generated from park entry fees is reinvested into:
- Facility improvements
- Trail development and maintenance
- Nature centers and exhibits
- Educational programs and public services
Planning for the Future
We are continually working to improve our parks based on visitor feedback and community needs. Partnerships with local organizations and universities help us better understand the environmental and economic benefits of our park system.
Contact Us
We welcome your questions, feedback, and suggestions.
📧 Email: maricopacountyparks@maricopa.gov