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Events (105)
  • Aug
    2
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    CANCELLED
    Aug 02, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Derik on a moderate hike that takes you to a summit and search for scorpions and other nocturnal wildlife on the way back down! Click program title for more details. Canceled due to heat
    Event Details
  • Aug
    3
    Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
    Aug 03, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Wonders of Plants Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 05, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Derik on a morning hike through the canyons of the park and learn about the many adaptations that plants use to survive in the Sonoran Desert. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Morning Meander
    Aug 05, 2026 - (08:00 AM - 09:30 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Kayak to Castle Creek (Registration required. Limit 8 Participants)
    Aug 05, 2026 - (08:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Kevin for a leisurely morning paddle up Castle Creek. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Discovery Station: Hohokam Masters of the Desert 
    Aug 05, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Stop by the nature center and learn about the native people that called the park home and see what they left behind. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Discovery Station
    Aug 05, 2026 - (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Olivia to Meet the Critters at this Discovery Station with some of the animal ambassadors that reside at the Hassayampa River Visitor Center! Click on program title for more details.  
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Sunset Walk (Registration Required. Limit 25 participants)
    Aug 05, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 08:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki for an easy stroll to experience beautiful desert among the cacti and mountains. Click on program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    5
    Creatures of the Night (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
    Aug 05, 2026 - (08:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Think you’re brave? The Desert would like a word. After dark. Ranger Shaun is here to show your appointment. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    6
    All Abilities Sunset Stroll
    Aug 06, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 07:30 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque on this barrier-free nature walk. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    6
    Bug Theatre/Scorpion Safari
    Aug 06, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
    Would you like to meet some scorpions and other “creepy-crawly” critters? Join Ranger Kevin for an evening of summer insect improv! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    6
    Scorpion Safari (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 06, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia on a hike to look for scorpions and other nocturnal creatures that call McDowell home. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    7
    Desert 101 Hike
    Aug 07, 2026 - (07:30 AM - 09:15 AM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Explore the north area of the park with Ranger Nikki and learn about the plants and animals of our Sonoran Desert. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    7
    Discovery Station Desert Mammals 
    Aug 07, 2026 - (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Get up close and personal with skulls and pelts from some common mammals found in our County Parks during this drop-by learning opportunity with Ranger Nikki. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    7
    America 250 Mine Tour- Striking it Rich! (Registration required, limit 12)
    Aug 07, 2026 - (05:00 PM - 07:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque for a special hike and mine tour to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary year while uncovering a fascinating story of the pursuit of the American Dream in the Arizona desert. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    7
    Saguaros in Sunset (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 07, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 08:30 PM)
    Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see and learn about the stunning saguaros during sunset. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    7
    America 250: Starry Nights and Striped Scorpions (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 07, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary year under the desert stars with Ranger Jacque! Hunt for glowing scorpions (included the stripe-tailed species!) along the trails and discover why these resilient survivors have been a constant in the American Southwest for eons.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Cactus Hike (Registration Required, Limit 15 Participants)
    Aug 08, 2026 - (07:30 AM - 08:30 AM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Spend the morning outside to learn all about the different cacti of the Sonoran Desert during this guided hike with Ranger Olivia. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Discovery Station
    Aug 08, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia to Meet the Critters at this Discovery Station with some of the animal ambassadors that reside at the McDowell Nature Center! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Nature Story Hour (Registration required. Limit 30 Participants) 
    Aug 08, 2026 - (11:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Kevin for a story and an introduction to some of the desert’s most amazing animals. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Discovery Station
    Aug 08, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    BUGS!
    Ready for Bug Theater? No? Come for a refresher! Ranger Shaun will be in the Nature Center showing off some bugs and answering questions about creepy crawlies to get everyone pumped up for tonight! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Discovery Station: Desert Critters
    Aug 08, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 01:30 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Come by and visit Ranger Kevin to learn about some of the animals native to the Sonoran Desert. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Scorpion Safari (Registration Required, Limit 40 Participants)
    Aug 08, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Rangers Nikki & Jacque on an easy 2-mile stroll to search for scorpions and other nocturnal critters, following an indoor session to get to know the scorpions we’ll find. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Bug Theatre/Scorpion Safari
    Aug 08, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Would you like to meet some scorpions and other “creepy-crawly” critters? Join Ranger Kevin for an evening of summer insect improv! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    8
    Bug Theater Season Kickoff!
    Aug 08, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Monsoon rains in June started cycles of breeding and egg laying that should hopefully be resulting in the stars of this year’s Bug Theater! Ranger Shaun is drawing the curtain once again to see who he can entice to the stage of lights! Come see for yourself! Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    9
    Walk with Saguaros (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 09, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Spend the morning hiking through pristine Sonoran Desert and learn about the plants and animals that call the park home. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    9
    Discovery Station: Desert Hiking Safety  
    Aug 09, 2026 - (08:30 AM - 11:30 AM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Learn how to safely hike in the valley of the sun all year long! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    9
    Scorpion Safari (Registration Required, Limit 30 Participants)
    Aug 09, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Search for scorpions with Ranger Jacque out on the trails on this family-friendly and fun nighttime safari, following an indoor session on them! Don’t forget to bring a blacklight! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    10
    Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
    Aug 10, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    10
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)  
    Aug 10, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Derik on a hike through the park as the sun sets and the stars come out. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    11
    Evening Fitness Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants) 
    Aug 11, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Derik on a hike below Pass Mountain as you explore washes and cactus forest! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Plant Walk
    Aug 12, 2026 - (07:00 AM - 09:00 AM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki to learn about our desert plants and see if any monsoon rains have provided a chance for new growth. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Guided Bird Walk (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
    Aug 12, 2026 - (07:15 AM - 09:15 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Discovery Station: Desert Plants 
    Aug 12, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Stop by the nature center and learn about the many cactus species that call the Sonoran Desert home and about the adaptations that help them survive. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Saguaros in Sunset (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 12, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 08:30 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see and learn about the stunning saguaros during sunset. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 12, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Explore the park after dark with Ranger Derik and hunt for scorpions and other creatures that rule the night! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    12
    Creatures of the Night Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 12, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Look for scorpions and other nocturnal critters on this hike with Ranger Eric! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    13
    Intro to Kayaking (Registration Required, Limit 8 Participants)
    Aug 13, 2026 - (08:00 AM - 02:00 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Interested in learning the basics of kayaking? This introductory class with Ranger will give you the knowledge you need to get started with confidence. Class includes time practicing on the water at Lake Pleasant. Click for more information.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    13
    Homeschool Happenings: Build a Dam (Registration Required, Limit 20 student participants)
    Aug 13, 2026 - (10:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Learn about the water cycle and get hands-on experience constructing your own water-retention structure with Ranger Nikki! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    13
    Climate Change in the Sonoran Desert Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 13, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 08:30 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to learn about the effects that climate change is having on the Sonoran Desert. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    13
    Creatures of the Night Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 13, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Look for scorpions and other nocturnal critters on this hike with Ranger Eric! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    14
    Beginning Birders Hike (Registration Required, Limit 12 Participants)
    Aug 14, 2026 - (07:15 AM - 09:15 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Kevin for an introduction to birding in one of Arizona’s premiere birding locations. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    14
    Discovery Station: Aquatic Life
    Aug 14, 2026 - (10:30 AM - 12:30 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Kevin for a close-up look at some very small aquatic critters native to the Hassayampa River Preserve. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    14
    America 250 Discovery Station: Cactus Curiosity
    Aug 14, 2026 - (12:30 PM - 02:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Curious about cacti? Come to this drop-in, come and go style ranger table with your questions; find answers, displays, and sharp plants!
    Event Details
  • Aug
    14
    America 250 Cactus Hike: Succulents of the San Tans (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 14, 2026 - (06:00 PM - 08:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque for a sunset hike to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary year while exploring the desert cacti, including the ancient, iconic saguaros that have stood as sentinels over the American desert since before our country's founding. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    14
    Creatures of the Night (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 14, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia on a night hike to search for all things creepy and crawly. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    15
    Morning Meander
    Aug 15, 2026 - (07:30 AM - 08:30 AM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Click on program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    15
    Al the Tortoises Birthday SHELLebration!
    Aug 15, 2026 - (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Have you ever been to a birthday party for a tortoise? Join us in shell-ebrating the 29th birthday of Al, our captive tortoise, here at Usery! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    15
    Discovery Station: Venomous Creatures
    Aug 15, 2026 - (01:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    The desert seems full of scary, venomous creatures, especially this time of year! Ranger Jacque’s here to talk about the real lives of rattlesnakes, Gila monsters, scorpions, and other desert dwellers you may encounter. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    15
    Desert 101 Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)  
    Aug 15, 2026 - (05:30 PM - 08:30 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Hike with Ranger Jacque through winding trails while watching the sun set over the Sonoran Desert!
    Event Details
  • Aug
    15
    Creatures of the Night (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
    Aug 15, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
    Think you’re brave? The Desert would like a word. After dark. Ranger Shaun is here to show you to your appointment. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    16
    Arizona Boater Education Course
    Aug 16, 2026 - (01:00 PM - 05:00 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Learn the basics of boater safety and laws during this classroom course. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    17
    Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
    Aug 17, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    19
    Goldmine Fitness Hike (Registration Required, Limit 15 Participants)
    Aug 19, 2026 - (07:00 AM - 09:00 AM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia on this difficult morning hike up the Goldmine trail. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    19
    Discovery Station: Life on the Aqua Fria 
    Aug 19, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Stop by the Discover Center and get up close with native animals that call the park home. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    19
    Discovery Station Desert 101
    Aug 19, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Come on down to the Nature Center to learn more about the fascinating world around you—the Sonoran Desert. Ranger Jacque will be ready to answer your burning questions.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    19
    America 250: Pemberton Pond Hike- Echoes of the Past (Registration required, limit 25)
    Aug 19, 2026 - (05:30 PM - 08:30 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque to celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary by discovering how the past is shaping our future on this enlightening history hike to Pemberton Pond. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    20
    Saguaros in Sunset (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 20, 2026 - (06:00 PM - 07:30 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see and learn about the stunning saguaros during sunset. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    20
    Bug Night! (Registration Required, Limit 50 Participants)
    Aug 20, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    See bugs up close and learn about insects and arachnids of the region with ASU researchers at this fun, family-friendly event! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Bird Walk
    Aug 21, 2026 - (06:30 AM - 07:45 AM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki on an easy walk to look for and identify our desert feathered friends and their homes. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Bird ID Basics
    Aug 21, 2026 - (08:00 AM - 09:00 AM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Learn about ways to identify birds that you see in your backyard and along hiking trails with an indoor presentation from Ranger Nikki. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Discovery Station
    Aug 21, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Skulls, bones, furs, scales – what do clues left behind by desert creatures tell us about their ways of life? Join Ranger Olivia to find out at the Skins and Skulls Discovery Station, click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Cosas Más Extrañas: Desierto Sonora (Bilingúe)/ Stranger Things: Sonoran Desert
    Aug 21, 2026 - (12:30 PM - 01:30 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    En esta presentación dentro del Centro de Naturaleza/ Nature Center, guardaparque Jacque te enseñe sobre las cosas más sorprendentes de la fauna del desierto. Haga clic en el titulo para más detalles.

    In this indoor presentation at the Nature Center, Ranger Jacque reveals the most surprising things about the desert fauna. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Caminata Nocturna (Bilingúe)/ Night Hike (bilingual) (Registrar; register))
    Aug 21, 2026 - (06:00 PM - 08:30 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Guardaparques Jacque y Eric te guían en una caminata por el atardecer y hasta la oscuridad de noche en este paseo lindo por el desierto. Haga clic en el titulo por más detalles.

    Rangers Jacque and Eric lead you through the sunset and nightfall on this beautiful desert hike. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Saguaros in Sunset (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 21, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 08:30 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see and learn about the stunning saguaros during sunset. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    21
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 21, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Derik on an evening hike through the park and search for nocturnal creatures under the stars. Click program title for more details
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Desert 101 Hike
    Aug 22, 2026 - (07:00 AM - 08:30 AM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Learn about the plants and animals of our Sonoran Desert on this hike with Ranger Nikki. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Kayak to Castle Creek (Registration Required, Limit 8 Participants)
    Aug 22, 2026 - (08:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Rangers Olivia and Jacque for a leisurely morning paddle up Castle Creek. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Edible Desert Plants (Registration Required. Limit 20 participants)
    Aug 22, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 10:00 AM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    With this indoor class led by Ranger Nikki you can learn about some of the plants in our Sonoran Desert that have served as nourishment and medicine for generations of desert dwellers. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Discovery Station: Sonoran Desert Snakes!
    Aug 22, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    See and learn about snakes of the Sonoran Desert with Ranger Eric! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Discovery Station
    Aug 22, 2026 - (01:00 PM - 03:00 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia during this Discovery Station to learn the basics of the Wild Burros that you may see residing within Lake Pleasant and find out how these non-native animals got here. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Creatures of the Night Hike (Registration Required, Limit 12 Participants)
    Aug 22, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
    Join Ranger Kevin for an evening of fun and adventure as we set off in search of desert wildlife. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Creatures of the Night (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
    Aug 22, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Hunt for glowing scorpions along the trails with Ranger Shaun and discover why these resilient survivors have been a constant in the American Southwest for eons.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    22
    Scorpion Safari (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 22, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Look for scorpions and other nocturnal wildlife on this hike with Ranger Eric! Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    23
    Waterfall Morning Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 23, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Shaun for his monthly Waterfall jaunt. Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    23
    Discovery Station: Desert Palms
    Aug 23, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 11:00 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Have you ever wondered about the Preserve's historic stand of palm trees? Then join Ranger Eric to learn about them inside the Visitor Center. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    24
    Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
    Aug 24, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    26
    Mid-Week Meander
    Aug 26, 2026 - (07:30 AM - 08:30 AM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Enjoy an early morning walk to watch for birds, lizards, snakes, and small animals with Ranger Olivia. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    26
    Discovery Station
    Aug 26, 2026 - (09:00 AM - 10:30 AM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Tired of hiding inside from the summer heat? Learn how to recreate safely throughout the rest of the summer at this Discovery Station all about heat safety. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Discovery Station
    Aug 27, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Olivia to examine the life that lives in the water here at the Preserve under microscope with this Aquatic Life Discovery Station. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    America 250: From Sea to Shining Desert
    Aug 27, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 01:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary year with Ranger Jacque! Take a beginner’s look into the world of desert birds and the migratory journeys that have connected our nation from sea to shining desert for over two centuries. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Discovery Station: Cactus Curiosity
    Aug 27, 2026 - (12:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Interested in learning more about cacti? Learn and ask your cactus questions to Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details!
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Sunset Hike (Registration Required, Limit 15 Participants)
    Aug 27, 2026 - (06:00 PM - 07:30 PM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Join Ranger Olivia for a hike to see the iconic desert sunset over the Hassayampa Preserve. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Full Moon Hike: Partial Lunar Eclipse (Registration Required. Limit 20 participants)
    Aug 27, 2026 - (06:45 PM - 09:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki on a moderate terrain hike to enjoy the colors of sunset and a red-tinged moon during a partial lunar eclipse. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Full Moon Hike – Partial Lunar Eclipse (Registration Required. Limit 20 participants) 
    Aug 27, 2026 - (06:45 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque on a moderate terrain hike to enjoy the colors of sunset and a red-tinged moon during a partial lunar eclipse. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    27
    Stargazing (Registration Required, Limit 40 Participants)
    Aug 27, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Kevin for a partial lunar eclipse! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Discovery Station: Skins and Skulls
    Aug 28, 2026 - (01:00 PM - 02:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Skulls, bones, furs, scales – what do clues left behind by desert creatures tell us about their ways of life? Ranger Jacque will have displays and open Q and A to discuss curious adaptations of common desert dwellers. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Discovery Station: Ask-A-Ranger
    Aug 28, 2026 - (03:00 PM - 04:30 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Got a burning question about the Sonoran Desert that no one seems to be able to answer? Want to know how to safely enjoy the desert, or what to do if you get bitten by a venomous animal? Ask Ranger Kevin! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Sunset and Full Moonrise Walk (Registration required, Limit 20 participants)
    Aug 28, 2026 - (06:30 PM - 07:45 PM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki on an easy walk to enjoy the colors of sunset and watch the full moon rise. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Full Moon Walk (Registration required, Limit 30 participants)
    Aug 28, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia on an evening stroll to watch the full moon rise over the Sonoran Desert. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Caminata de Luna Llena (Bilingüe) Full Moon Hike (Bilingual) (Registration Required, Limit 40/ Se re
    Aug 28, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Guardaparques Jacque y Eric lideran esta caminata nocturna, en que experimentamos la cobertura oscura, los sonidos misteriosos y las criaturas de la noche. Haz clic en el título del programa para más detalles.

    Rangers Jacque and Eric lead the way on this night hike, sure to please the senses as you take in the shadowy cover of darkness, mysterious sounds, and creatures of the night. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 28, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area
    Join Ranger Rodgers on a relaxing hike through riparian habitat and towering cacti while you hunt for scorpions. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Full Moon Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 28, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    White Tank Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Kevin for an evening hike under the stars.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    28
    Bug Theater
    Aug 28, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Estrella Mountain Regional Park
    Monsoon rains in June started cycles of breeding and egg laying that should hopefully be resulting in the stars of this year’s Bug Theater! Ranger Shaun is drawing the curtain once again to see who he can entice to the stage of lights! Come see for yourself! Click program title for more details. 
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    Guided Bird Walk (Registration Required, Limit 10 Participants)
    Aug 29, 2026 - (07:15 AM - 09:15 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Learn about the resident and migrant birds of desert riparian areas on this guided walk with Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    Discovery Station
    Aug 29, 2026 - (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Olivia to examine the life that lives in the water here in our wildlife pond under microscope with this Aquatic Life Discovery Station. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    America 250: Scales of the Southwest
    Aug 29, 2026 - (12:30 PM - 01:30 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque for a special America 250 Lunch n' Learn! Explore the complex history and symbolism of desert reptiles in the American story, from revolutionary flags to Hollywood legends. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    America 250: Striking it Rich! Claymine Tour (Registration Required, Limit 12 Participants)
    Aug 29, 2026 - (06:00 PM - 08:00 PM)
    Cave Creek Regional Park
    Join Ranger Jacque for a hike and mine tour which features a fascinating glimpse into Arizona’s past. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    Full Moon Walk (Registration required, Limit 30 participants)
    Aug 29, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    McDowell Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Shaun on an evening stroll to watch the full moon rise over the Sonoran Desert. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    Bug Theatre/Scorpion Safari
    Aug 29, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Would you like to meet some scorpions and other “creepy-crawly” critters? Join Ranger Kevin for an evening of summer insect improv! Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    29
    Scorpion Safari (Registration Required, Limit 30 participants)
    Aug 29, 2026 - (07:30 PM - 09:00 PM)
    San Tan Mountain Regional Park
    Join Ranger Nikki on an easy 2-mile stroll to search for scorpions and other nocturnal critters under an almost-full moon. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    30
    Guided Dragonfly Walk (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 30, 2026 - (07:15 AM - 09:15 AM)
    Hassayampa River Preserve
    Learn about the dragonflies and damselflies of this desert oasis on a guided walk with Ranger Eric. Click on program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    30
    Desert After Dark Hike (Registration Required, Limit 20 Participants)
    Aug 30, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 09:00 PM)
    Usery Mountain Regional Park
    Avoid the peak of heat and enjoy a guided group hike under the stars on this fun night hike through scenic desert trails. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    30
    Scorpion Hike (Registration Required, Limit 25 Participants)
    Aug 30, 2026 - (07:00 PM - 12:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Join Ranger Derik on a hike through the park on the hunt for scorpions and other nocturnal creatures that call the park home. Click program title for more details.
    Event Details
  • Aug
    31
    Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
    Aug 31, 2026 - (06:00 AM - 08:00 AM)
    Lake Pleasant Regional Park
    Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
    Event Details

NOTICE: Accessibility & Accommodations
The County is committed to providing equal access to its programs, services, and activities.

To request a reasonable accommodation, auxiliary aid, service, or information in an alternative format, please contact the ADA Compliance Program at maricopacountyparks@maricopa.gov or 602.506.9500.

Requests related to public meetings should be made at least three (3) business days in advance when possible to allow time for coordination. 

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