Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant
The Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant is an outdoor education facility and event venue located near Honeymoon Cove within Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Surrounded by Sonoran Desert landscape and lake views, the Center provides educational programs, group facilities, and special event space.
Educational Programs
The Center offers more than 30 educational programs led by professional interpretive rangers. Topics include:
- Desert ecology
- Dinosaur history
- Renewable and alternative energy
- Wildlife and habitat studies
- Water science and conservation
Programs are designed to provide hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences for students and organized groups.
Facility Features
The Desert Outdoor Center includes approximately 26,000 square feet of indoor space and outdoor amenities.
Indoor facilities include:
- A multi-purpose room with seating for up to 150 people
- A commercial-grade kitchen
- Four classrooms
- A live animal exhibit area
- Two dormitory-style lodging areas with private showers, accommodating up to 150 guests total
Outdoor amenities include:
- An amphitheater with seating for approximately 200 people
- A patio overlooking Lake Pleasant
- A 2-mile loop trail
- Butterfly and ethnobotany gardens
- Self-guided educational displays
Events and Rentals
The Center is available for:
- Retreats
- Weddings
- Educational gatherings
- Special group events
The facility is located approximately 1.5 miles beyond a secured entry gate, providing a private setting for scheduled events.
The Center is generally reserved for school field trips and permitted events. On occasion, it hosts public programs such as astronomy events that do not require reservations. Please check the park calendar for upcoming public events.
Our Philosophy
The Desert Outdoor Center provides engaging, hands-on learning experiences that aim to:
- Encourage curiosity about nature
- Promote interest in scientific concepts
- Foster appreciation for the Sonoran Desert
History
The original Lake Pleasant Outdoor Center served thousands of central Arizona students each year at a former guest ranch site located at the south end of the lake. In 1992, that site was removed to allow for the expansion of Lake Pleasant Reservoir.
The current Desert Outdoor Center facility was constructed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. The Center officially opened on May 1, 1998, and is operated by the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department.
For program availability, facility rental information, or accessibility questions, please contact the Desert Outdoor Center directly prior to your visit.