Park History
Arizona is known for its rich history and cultural traditions, many of which continue to be shared through stories, films, books, and oral histories. Several areas within the Maricopa County regional park system reflect this history. McDowell Mountain Regional Park is one such place, where archaeological evidence and documented events reveal a long record of human activity.
Early People
Archaeological evidence shows that people lived and traveled through this region thousands of years ago. Early nomadic groups hunted large game across the Southwest.
Later, the Hohokam people lived throughout much of southern Arizona, including areas of present-day Maricopa County, from approximately A.D. 300 to 1450. The Hohokam developed extensive irrigation systems and practiced agriculture along rivers and desert floodplains.
Within the park boundaries, archaeologists have identified sites associated with hunting, gathering, and other activities that reflect this long history of Indigenous presence in the region.
Spanish Exploration
Spanish explorers entered the region in the 1500s, including expeditions led by Francisco Vázquez de Coronado. At that time, large Hohokam communities lived near the confluence of the Salt and Verde Rivers. These communities practiced farming supported by irrigation, as well as hunting and gathering.
Camp McDowell
In 1865, the U.S. Army established Camp McDowell along the west bank of the Verde River. The camp remained an active military post until 1890 and was the only fort located within the present-day boundaries of Maricopa County.
Remnants of Camp McDowell still exist today near the community of Fort McDowell, located a few miles southeast of the park. The presence of the military post helped support permanent settlement in the Salt River Valley.
In 1871, Maricopa County was officially established to serve the growing population of the region.
Creation of the Regional Park
Discussions about creating a county park system began in the 1940s. Planning efforts included selecting potential park locations and acquiring land for future parks.
- 1958: The initial 18,273 acres that would become McDowell Mountain Regional Park were leased.
- 1964: The land was officially patented to Maricopa County.
- Today: Through additional land acquisitions, the park has expanded to approximately 21,099 acres.
Today
McDowell Mountain Regional Park is one of the largest parks in the Maricopa County Parks system. The park offers expansive desert landscapes, diverse wildlife habitats, and sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains.
Visitors can experience both the natural beauty and the long cultural history that make this area an important part of Arizona’s heritage.