Maricopa County

Amenities | Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant

Desert Outdoor Center dorm surrounded by desert landscape with saguaro cactus, rocky terrain, and mountain backdrop.             

Dormitory Lodging at the DOC

Two separate dorm room complexes accommodate 75 each. 

Event space set up with round tables, white tablecloths, blue napkins, and stage area with musical instruments and speakers.             

Multipurpose Room

A large conference room seating up to 150 people is situated adjacent to the kitchen and can be used as a dining hall. 

Park ranger speaking to a group of children seated at tables in a classroom setting.             

Classrooms

Three indoor classrooms with each room seating about 40 people each. 

Park ranger leading an outdoor educational program for a group of students seated in an amphitheater overlooking Lake Pleasant and desert hills.             

Amphitheater

A popular spot to roast marshmallows and sing camp songs at night, this outdoor amphitheater seats 200 people. 

Commercial kitchen with stainless steel sinks, prep tables, ovens, stove, and storage racks.             

Kitchen

An area fully equipped with commercial grade amenities. 

Exterior view of the Desert Outdoor Center building with desert landscaping, saguaro cactus, and mountain backdrop.             

Brick Patio

This large circular brick patio serves as a picnic and gathering area. 

Visitors, including children and an adult, viewing wildlife habitats inside an exhibit hall at the Desert Outdoor Center at Lake Pleasant.             

Animal Exhibit

This exhibit displays reptiles and amphibians native to the Sonoran Desert. 

scenery_lg             

Lake Pleasant

Viewed from the Center and used as an educational resource, the lake entrance is located 4 miles west of the Center. 

Group of young hikers walking along a desert trail near Lake Pleasant with saguaro cacti and mountain views.             

Hiking Trail

Visitors have access to a two-mile loop trail providing panoramic views of Lake Pleasant. 

Desert trail overlook with wooden fence, interpretive sign, and mountain views under a partly cloudy sky.             

Gardens

Two educational gardens that emphasize pollination and ethnobotany incorporate passive interpretive displays. 

For more information, pricing, to arrange a personal tour, or make reservations, call (602) 372-7470 or email doc@mail.maricopa.gov

Phone: 602-506-2930

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