Check out the epic National Parks near Phoenix, Arizona, including Saguaro National Park, Petrified Forest National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and many more!
National Parks near Phoenix
Like Utah, Arizona's National Parks and National Monuments are some of the most recognized National Parks in the country!
A great way to get around if you are looking to go camping is by renting an Escape Campervan. They have an office in Phoenix, and they are perfect for those wanting something more than a tent but not quite the size of a full RV.
Campervans have built-in beds, a kitchen area with refrigerators, and more. You can have them fully set up with kitchen supplies, bedding, and other fun extras. They are painted with epic designs you can't miss!
If you are taking an Arizona National Park road trip, you will have the chance to visit some of the best places to see iconic views, red rocks, epic short hikes, and some truly incredible national parks.
Be aware that numerous sites have entrance fees and can easily add up to over $80, which is the price for the annual pass, also known as the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass.
This pass covers entrance fees for an entire year to all US National Parks and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites.
The park pass covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and for up to 4 adults for per-person sites.
Buy on REI.com and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.
Free Entrance Days -Mark your calendars with the five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually.
Casa Grande Ruins National Monument
Distance from - 54 miles
Top Attractions - scenic Sonoran Desert landscape, the O'odham houses, Hohokam irrigation canals
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the National Monument
Camping- There are no campgrounds within Casa Grande Ruins NM
Park Address - 1100 W Ruins Dr, Coolidge, AZ 85128, USA
The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is a fascinating place that history and nature enthusiasts will enjoy. The site is an archaeological area where visitors can glimpse into the life of the Hohokam people who inhabited the area over 800 years ago. The main attraction is the four-story Casa Grande built of mud bricks, likely used for religious purposes. Other interesting sights include irrigation canals, O'odham houses, and a small museum exhibiting artifacts discovered during excavations. Visitors can tour the ruins alone or with a ranger who will provide historical insights. The Sonoran Desert that surrounds the monument is stunning, featuring diverse flora and fauna such as the desert tortoise or jackrabbit. The Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history and nature, offering an opportunity to explore ancient structures and canals while enjoying the beauty of a desert environment.
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Distance from - 95 miles
Top Attractions - ancient cliff dwelling, hiking, and the castle itself
Lodging - There is no lodging within the park
Camping- There are no campgrounds in Montezuma Castle NM
Park Address - Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, USA
Montezuma Castle National Monument is a must-see for anyone planning a trip to Arizona. This national monument, located near Sedona, boasts a collection of old houses built into the side of a cliff dating back to 1100-1425 AD. Visitors can climb ladders to explore the different levels of these ancient dwellings and get a glimpse into the way people lived in the past. The site also features beautiful trails perfect for taking in the Sonoran Desert's unique flora and fauna, such as lizards and birds. Whether touring on your own or with a ranger guide, you'll leave with a thorough understanding of the area's rich history. Don't forget to check out the on-site gift shop before you leave. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable experience that combines the beautiful scenery and rich cultural history, add Montezuma Castle National Monument to your must-see list.
Tuzigoot National Monument
Distance from - 106 miles
Top Attractions - panoramic views of the Verde River, hiking, bird-watching, and breathtaking views of the countryside
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- There are no National Park Campgrounds within the park.
Park Address - 25 Tuzigoot Rd, Clarkdale, AZ 86324, USA
You should check out Tuzigoot National Monument when you're in Arizona. It's a cool spot that many tourists enjoy. You'll find an ancient pueblo that was built by the Sinagua people over 800 years ago on top of a hill. From there, you can take in amazing views of the Verde River and surrounding areas. As you explore the ruins, you can walk around, climb narrow staircases, and check out different rooms to learn about the culture. Nature trails, bird-watching trips, and hikes around the visitor center offer beautiful views of the countryside. Additionally, you can visit nearby attractions like the Verde River, Montezuma Castle National Monument, and Montezuma Well. Tuzigoot National Monument is the perfect place for you to experience the history and natural beauty of Arizona.
Tonto National Monument
Distance from - 108 miles
Top Attractions - pre-Columbian cliff dwellings, camping, picnicking, and stargazing
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within Tonto NM
Camping- There are no National Park Campgrounds within the park.
Park Address - 26260 AZ-188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545, United States
Tonto National Monument in Arizona is a stunning place to explore. The monument features two well-preserved pre-Columbian cliff dwellings constructed by the Salado people about 600 AD. One of them is a short hike away and easy to access, while the other one is more challenging and requires a strenuous hike. Both cliff dwellings are captivating and offer visitors a glimpse into the ancient world of the Salado people. Tonto National Monument also has several hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the Sonoran Desert and the Superstition Mountains. In addition, visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and stargazing in the monument's picturesque natural setting. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or outdoor recreation, Tonto National Monument is a must-visit destination.
Saguaro National Park
Distance from - 110 miles
Top Attractions - hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife watching,
Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within the park
Camping- There is no car/RV camping at Saguaro National Park.
Park Address -Tucson Mountain District (west): 2700 N Kinney Rd, Tucson, AZ 85743, United States
Rincon Mountain District (east): 3693 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85730, United States
Saguaro National Park, situated in Arizona, boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna that attracts tourists from all over the world. The park is famous for its impressive saguaro cactus that can grow up to 60 feet in height, with several being over 200 years old. The park has two distinct sections; the Tucson Mountain District and the Rincon Mountain District. The Tucson Mountain District features several hiking trails and picnic areas, and visitors can also take a scenic drive through the district. The Rincon Mountain District is home to several backpacking trails and scenic drives that offer views of the park's diverse wildlife such as coyotes, Gila monsters, and desert tortoises. Visitors can also attend ranger-led programs to learn more about the park's ecosystem and indigenous cultures. Saguaro National Park offers visitors a chance to experience the unique desert landscape of Arizona while learning about the conservation efforts that go into preserving it.
Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Distance from - 128 miles
Top Attractions - Sonoran Desert wilderness, camping, birdwatching, and stargazing, scenic hiking trails,
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within Organ Pipe Cactus NM
Camping- There are two campgrounds available, including the Twin Peaks Campground and the Alamo Canyon Campground, which provide campsites for RVs and tents. The Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument campgrounds offer visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of nature in southern Arizona.
Park Address - 10 Organ Pipe Dr, Ajo, AZ 85321, United States
The Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument in Southern Arizona is a must-visit destination for those interested in the unique beauty of the American Southwest. With protected areas that house rare plants and animals including the organ pipe cactus, you'll discover a variety of fun activities that explore local history and culture. Hike or bike on scenic trails that showcase rugged terrain and educate you about local Tohono O'odham people. Take the 21-mile Ajo Mountain Drive for an unforgettable experience that provides stunning desert landscapes. Visit the Kris Eggle Visitor Center for insights into the area's wildlife, plants, and history. Don't forget to check out the Sonoran Desert wilderness that's perfect for camping, birdwatching, and stargazing for a complete experience. Therefore, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument offers a great opportunity to discover natural beauty and local history with fun activities for all ages.
Walnut Canyon National Monument
Distance from - 151 miles
Top Attractions - stunning panoramic views,
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- There are no National Park Campgrounds within the park.
The closest campgrounds to the park are Bonito Campground and Canyon Vista Campground in Coconino National Forest.
Park Address - 3 Walnut Canyon Rd, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
The breathtaking Walnut Canyon National Monument in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a mesmerizing attraction that shouldn't be missed. It features over 25 ancient cliff dwellings that were once home to the Sinagua people. The Island Trail offers stunning views of the canyon and its dwellings, providing visitors with a truly unforgettable experience. The site also includes a Visitor Center where visitors can gain insight into the history and culture of the Sinagua people, along with guided tours for a more in-depth experience.
The stunning views and adventurous hiking trails will leave you with an unforgettable experience. This site is rich in Native American history and worth exploring.
Tumacacori National Historical Park
Distance from - 159 miles
Top Attractions - Spanish colonial architecture, museum, walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- Tumacacori National Historical Park does not offer camping facilities within its boundaries. However, visitors can find several camping options available within a short distance.
Park Address - 1891 I-19 Frontage Rd, Tumacacori-Carmen, AZ 85640, USA
Located in the southern part of Arizona, the park is a showcase of the region's rich history and culture of Native American tribes and Spanish missionaries.
The park's top attractions include the mission church, museum, and walking trails. The mission church is the centerpiece of the park, dating back to the 18th century and presenting stunning examples of Spanish colonial architecture. The museum features fascinating exhibits showcasing the lives of the Native Americans in the region, offering glimpses of traditional clothing, tools, and artwork.
Explore the self-guided nature trails weaving through the park's breathtaking landscapes of the Sonoran desert. These trails provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and offer a chance to get up close to the unique flora and fauna of the region.
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
Distance from - 162 miles
Top Attractions - Sunset crater, Lava Flow Trail, hiking trails
Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within the park
Camping- Camping is not allowed in Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. However, a suitable alternative is the Bonito Campground, which is managed by the US Forest Service and situated opposite the visitor center. The campground is usually available from the end of May until the middle of October each year.
Park Address - 6082 Sunset Crater Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
Visit the Sunset Volcano National Monument in northern Arizona to experience the incredible geological and cultural history of this fascinating region. The main attraction is the Sunset Crater, a towering cinder cone that still shows traces of eruptions that happened over 900 years ago. Visitors can hike around the cone or explore lava fields that stretch across the surrounding landscape, while also enjoying the Lava Flow Trail, which winds through basaltic fields created by nearby volcanic eruptions. You may also explore the Wupatki National Monument, where you can discover ancient Native American ruins, including multistory pueblos and kivas. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just interested in learning more about this dazzling area, Sunset Volcano National Monument is an amazing destination.
Wupatki National Monument
Distance from - 174 miles
Top Attractions - Puebloan ruins, Wupatki Pueblo, scenic hikes, and breathtaking picnic views
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- There is no camping in Wupatki National Monument but you can camp in Coconino National Forest.
Park Address - 25137 North Wupatki Lane, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, United States
The Wupatki National Monument is an amazing place in northern Arizona with a lot of cultural and historical significance. For over a thousand years, many indigenous groups, including the Ancestral Puebloans, lived in this area. The name "Wupatki" means "Tall House" in the Hopi language, which refers to the huge buildings of ancient dwellings in the area. The site is huge, covering 35,422 acres, and has amazing architectural wonders that have been well-preserved. The Wupatki Pueblo alone used to house more than a hundred people at its peak. You can discover the site's fascinating history and culture by taking beautiful hiking trails or guided tours. If you're looking for a place to learn about the area's rich past, Wupatki National Monument is worth visiting!
Coronado National Memorial
Distance from - 206 miles
Top Attractions - Coronado Cave, Montezuma Pass, hiking, bird watching, and stargazing
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- Camping is not allowed in Coronado NM
Park Address - 25137 North Wupatki Lane, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, USA
Located in southeastern Arizona, Coronado National Memorial is a national park dedicated to preserving the legacy and culture of the Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, who searched for the Seven Cities of Gold in the 16th century. Visitors can explore Montezuma Pass, which offers awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Caving enthusiasts can explore the Coronado Cave to experience an incredible subterranean world.
The Visitor Center provides information about the park's ecosystem, wildlife, and history, offering guided tours and educational programs. With hiking, bird watching, and stargazing, nature lovers and history enthusiasts will enjoy the unique experiences that Coronado National Memorial offers. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and varied activities, this national park is a must-visit destination.
Petrified Forest National Park
Distance From Phoenix - 208 miles
Top Attractions - The badlands, petrified logs, rock formations, scenic drive, and hiking trails
Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within Petrified Forest NP
Camping- There are no campgrounds within Petrified Forest State Park. The designated Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area allows for overnight stays only via backpacking or hiking, at a minimum distance of half a mile from your vehicle.
Park Address - 1 Park Road Petrified Forest, AZ 86028
Petrified Forest National Park boasts many alluring sights that catch the eye, such as the brilliantly-hued badlands and the petrified logs – rocks that were once living trees – which resemble precious marble sculptures. Adventurers can explore the park's trails by foot or by car, granting them vistas of the picturesque badlands. While on their journey, they can also witness the evidence of early human habitation through the ancient ruins of Native American tribes. Additionally, the park is home to Route 66, a storied highway that connected the eastern and western United States. With breathtaking natural formations and glimpses into the past, Petrified Forest National Park is a fascinating and unforgettable destination.
Joshua Tree National Park
Distance from - 222 miles
Top Attractions: Joshua Trees, Cholla Cactus Garden, Epic Sunsets, Hiking, Rock Climbing, and Gorgeous Photo Opportunities.
Lodging - There are no National Park lodges within Joshua Tree National Park
Camping- There are nine Joshua Tree Campgrounds. Camping in Joshua Tree is an opportunity to experience unique rock formations and epic dark skies.
Park Address - 6554 Park Blvd, Joshua Tree, CA 92252
Joshua Tree National Park includes three ecosystems in an awe-inspiring desert landscape. There are three entrances to Joshua Tree NP, including through the town of Joshua Tree, which is a little over three hours from San Diego.
Visitors can enjoy amazing views, great scenic driving, hiking, and camping under millions of stars. Don't miss Skull Rock, Jumbo Rocks, the Cholla Cactus Garden (hint: don't touch the cactus), and Keys View.
Grand Canyon National Park
Distance from - 228 miles
Top Attractions - Grand Canyon South Rim, Havasu Falls, Havasu Canyon, Bright Angel Trail, Rim Trail, Desert View Watchtower, Phantom Ranch, and the Horseshoe Bend, hiking, river rafting, and camping
Lodging - There are multiple National Park Lodges within the Grand Canyon National Park. Choosing which lodge to stay in depends mainly on the parts of the park you're hoping to explore!
Camping- The Grand Canyon National Park has many campgrounds for visitors to enjoy. The most popular is the Mather Campground in the South Rim area. It has amenities like showers, laundry facilities, and a camp store. If you prefer a more rustic camping experience, the Desert View Campground near the East Entrance might be a good option for you. For those who want to explore the wilderness of the canyon, there are several backcountry campsites available.
Park Address - 20 South Entrance Road Grand Canyon, AZ 86023
The Grand Canyon National Park is a stunning destination that captures the hearts of all its visitors. The park has various attractions, and the most popular is the Grand Canyon South Rim, offering captivating panoramic views of the canyon. Additionally, the North Rim provides beautiful scenic views and more peaceful surroundings. Other famous sites include the Havasu Falls, Havasu Canyon, Rim Trail, and Phantom Ranch, offering visitors adventurous journeys through nature. The park has various activities such as hiking and river rafting, providing unique and unforgettable experiences. Tourists can also participate in ranger-led programs to learn more about the area's history and geography. Due to its exceptional natural beauty, the Grand Canyon National Park attracts nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts worldwide. Both first-time and regular visitors will be spellbound by the mesmerizing surroundings and diverse attractions available.
Chiricahua National Monument
Distance from - 232 miles
Top Attractions - Heart Rocks loop, Echo Canyon Trail, stunning rock formations, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing
Lodging - There are no lodging options within Chiricahua NM
Camping- Bonita Canyon Campground is nestled in a cool and shady spot surrounded by majestic pine and oak trees. It's conveniently situated near the Bonita Canyon wash and has 25 sites with modern facilities, including flush toilets, running water, picnic tables, and trash pickup. The campground also offers a group area that can cater to any size from 9 to 24 people with a maximum of 8 tents.
Park Address - 12856 East Rhyolite Creek Road, Willcox, AZ 85643, USA
Chiricahua National Monument is a protected area in southeast Arizona with magnificent rock formations and stunning natural scenery. The park's Echo Canyon Trail is a popular hiking spot that reveals towering rock pinnacles, spires, and hoodoos. Another must-see attraction is the Heart of Rocks Loop, a scenic trail that passes through a valley filled with surreal rock structures formed by wind and water erosion. Visitors can also explore the Faraway Ranch Historic District, which depicts early life on ranches in the area. Other highlights include the Bonita Canyon Drive, characterized by wildflowers and incredible views of the surrounding mountains, and the Massai Point Observation Area, which offers panoramic views of the Chiricahua Wilderness.
Fort Bowie National Historic Site
Distance from - 232 miles
Top Attractions - hiking trails, birdwatching, spectacular desert landscapes
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- There is no camping within the park. There is camping available at the Bonita Canyon Campground in Chiricahua National Monument 25 miles away
Park Address - 3500 South Apache Pass Road, Bowie, Arizona 85605
Fort Bowie National Historic Site is a great place to visit if you love history or nature. It's in the Chiricahua Mountains in southern Arizona and shows the area's interesting past. The fort was built in 1862 and used for more than 30 years. Now, it's part of a park where you can see the old ruins and go on hikes to enjoy the beautiful desert scenery. The park has a Visitor Center with displays about the history of the site and the plants and animals in the area. If you like hiking, there's a 4-mile trail to see the fort's remains. Bird watchers will have a great time too, with so many types of birds living in the park. The interpretive programs offered at the park will help you learn more about the fort and the Native American tribes in the area.
Hubbel Trading Post National Historic Site
Distance from - 272 miles
Top Attractions - Hubbel Family home tour, hiking, scenic views of the surrounding landscape
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within the park.
Camping- There are no campgrounds within the site. However, the nearest campgrounds are about 40 minutes away at Canyon de Chelly National Monument near Chinle, AZ.
Park Address - ½ mile west of Hwy 191/264, Ganado, AZ 86505-0150
Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site, covering 160 acres, is a tourist destination located within the Navajo Nation Reservation. It was founded by John Lorenzo Hubbell in 1878 and is revered as one of America's earliest and oldest running trading posts. It played a vital role as a trading hub for the Navajo tribe and settlers, which helped shape the cultural and economic history of the Navajos.
Visitors can explore the site, which includes a trading post, a blacksmith shop, a historic schoolhouse, and log cabins. There are guided tours, talks, and Navajo cultural programs arranged, as well as hikes that offer an opportunity to admire the surrounding scenic beauty.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Distance from - 272 miles
Top Attractions - Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Black Canyon, Historic Railroad Trail, Valley of Fire State Park, hiking and camping
Lodging - The Lake Mead Lodge is the main lodging option for those seeking a hotel experience within the recreation area. It has 29 rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, with beautiful views of Lake Mead. The cabins at Echo Bay are perfect for a romantic retreat, offering modern amenities with a breathtaking view of the lake.
Camping- Lake Mead National Recreation Area boasts 15 scenic locations with over 900 camping and RV sites to choose from. With the convenience of restrooms, running water, dump stations, grills, picnic tables, and shade, our campgrounds offer a comfortable stay for both RV owners and tent campers. You can also take advantage of concessioner campgrounds that cater to recreational vehicle hook-ups.
Park Address - 10 Lakeshore Rd, Boulder City, NV 89005, USA
The Lake Mead National Recreation Area, found in both Nevada and Arizona, is a fantastic combination of beautiful scenery and fun activities. The most popular sites within the region are Hoover Dam, a wonder of engineering that spans the Colorado River, and Lake Mead, the biggest reservoir in the United States that's perfect for fishing and boating. Black Canyon is another must-see spot, featuring dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear water that's great for kayaking and rafting. Visitors can also explore the Historic Railroad Trail, which follows an epochal railway line and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. If you venture just outside the recreation area, Valley of Fire State Park awaits, offering towering red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs. Hiking, camping, and picnicking are popular activities in this beautiful desert oasis.
View from back of Lake Powell Resort Glen Canyon National Recreation Area Arizona
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Distance from - 274 miles
Top Attractions - Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, boating, fishing, hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing and swimming
Lodging - Lake Powell Resort offers comfortable lodging options that are conveniently located within the park. Hotel rooms near the lake are available at both the Wahweap and Defiance House Lodge, providing guests with stunning views and easy access to the water. For families, standalone units in the form of three-bedroom single-wide trailers are available at Halls Crossing and Bullfrog.
Camping- There are 9 campgrounds to choose from, each unique and offering something different for visitors. Many of the campgrounds are well-equipped with amenities such as showers, restrooms, and picnic tables, while others offer a more primitive camping experience. Visitors can also choose from a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and group sites.
Park Address - 4304 Bullfrog, Lake Powell, UT 84533, USA
The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a picturesque destination located in the southwestern United States. Some of the top attractions at the park include Lake Powell, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Horseshoe Bend, and Antelope Canyon. Lake Powell is one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States and is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Rainbow Bridge National Monument is a natural arch measuring 290 feet and is accessible via boat or hiking. Horseshoe Bend is a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River and can be easily accessed from the nearby parking lot. Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon famous for its stunning rock formations and light beams. The park also offers numerous hiking trails, camping facilities, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Navajo National Monument
Distance from - 282 miles
Top Attractions- Betatakin cliff dwellings, the Keet Seel cliff dwellings, the Sandal Trail hike, and the Canyon View
Lodging- There are no National Park Lodges within the Navajo NM
Camping- The Sunset View Campground is always available throughout the year. Meanwhile, the Canyon View Campground is only open during the summer season.
Park Address - End of AZ Highway 564 Shonto, AZ 86054
Navajo National Monument is a great place to explore the rich history and beauty of the American Southwest. There are several exciting attractions here that you must visit, including the Betatakin and Keet Seel cliff dwellings, the Sandal Trail hike, and the Canyon View Information Center. These cliff dwellings are a fascinating piece of history that offers insight into the daily lives of the Ancestral Puebloan people who built and lived in them. The Sandal Trail is an easy hike that presents breathtaking views of the Betatakin amphitheater and the surrounding terrain. Lastly, the Canyon View Information Center is an outstanding resource for those who want to learn more about the history and geology of the area, and it offers a fantastic panoramic view of the monument from its rooftop observation deck. These attractions are worth the trip!
Canyon De Chelly National Monument
Distance from - 294 miles
Top Attractions -the Spider Rock, White House Ruins, Native American dwellings, Antelope House Ruins, Mummy Cave Ruins, and the Sliding House Ruin
Lodging - Thunderbird Lodge is a full-service hotel offering rooms and suites with modern amenities, as well as an on-site restaurant, gift shop, and tour desk. The lodge is located near the canyon rim and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Camping- The Spider Rock Campground is a more rustic option, offering campsites for both tent and RV camping. There are no hookups at the campground, but there are restrooms, showers, and a dump station available. The campground is located near the White House Ruins Trail, making it a convenient choice for hikers.
Park Address- 3 miles E of HWY 191 on Rt 7 Chinle, AZ 86503
It is famous for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. The top attractions of the Canyon De Chelly National Monument include the Spider Rock, which is a towering sandstone spire that rises 750 feet above the canyon floor. The White House Ruins are another must-see attraction that showcases ancient Native American dwellings perched on the cliff walls. Additionally, the Antelope House Ruins, Mummy Cave Ruins, and the Sliding House Ruin provide visitors with a glimpse of the ancient culture that once thrived in this region. Visitors can also explore the Canyon by hiking or taking guided tours that offer insights into the history, traditions, and spiritual beliefs of the Navajo people.
Unlike many other ruins that visitors come to see, Canyon de Chelly is a unique location where people still live within the park. Although there are ruins in the park, the Navajo people have lived in the canyon for around 5000 years and continue to do so by practicing agriculture and raising livestock. This makes much of the park privately owned and co-managed between the National Park Service and Navajo Parks and Recreation Department. It is commendable that the Navajo people allow visitors to come and appreciate the natural and cultural beauty of their home.
Pipe Springs National Monument
Distance from - 352 miles
Top Attractions - Winsor Castle, red rock formations, interpretive exhibits
Lodging - There are no National Park Lodges within Pipe Springs NM
Camping- There are no National campgrounds within Pipe Springs. However, the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians has a campground located only ¼ mile north of the monument. Other options in nearby towns of Fredonia, Arizona is only 15 miles east of Pipe Spring and has campgrounds available for use.
Campgrounds and at-large camping are also available on surrounding Bureau of Land Management (Arizona Strip District) and Forest Service lands (North Kaibab Ranger District).
Park Address -406 N Pipe Spring Rd, Kaibab, AZ 86022, USA
If you're interested in the history of the American West, you should definitely visit Pipe Springs National Monument in Arizona. The main attraction is Winsor Castle, a historic fort built by the Mormon pioneers in the 19th century. The castle has been preserved really well, making it a fascinating place to visit and get an authentic glimpse of that era. The monument also offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations and a spring that was important to both the pioneers and Native American tribes. You can take a guided tour, check out some interpretive exhibits, and get books from the bookstore to learn more about the area. So, if you love history and nature, Pipe Springs National Monument is well worth a visit!
Distance from - 364 miles
Top Attractions - Old Point Loma Lighthouse, tidepools,Whale-watching, wildlife and bird watching, hiking trails, a visitor center, and a museum
Lodging- There is no lodging within the park.
Camping- There is no camping within the park
Park Address - 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
Cabrillo National Monument, located in San Diego, California, offers a wide range of top attractions. At the entrance, visitors can watch a 15-minute film about Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first explorer to navigate California's coast. The park's hiking trails, such as Bayside Trail, offer incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which dates back to 1855 and overlooks the ocean, is another popular attraction. Whale-watching, tidepooling, and ranger-led programs are available seasonally. The park's Visitor Center features exhibits on Cabrillo's voyage and the natural history of Point Loma. Visitors can also explore the park's Coastal Defense exhibit, which showcases the military history of the area. Cabrillo National Monument is an excellent destination for tourists seeking stunning views, outdoor recreation, and cultural and educational experiences.
Additional National Parks near Phoenix that are 350-400 miles away
Gila Cliff Dwellings National - 356 miles
Zion National Park - 380 Miles
Death Valley National Park - 400 miles
Check out all of the Arizona National Parks, along with neighboring California National Parks, Nevada National Parks, Utah National Parks, and New Mexico National Parks
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