The Best Parks for Families in Arizona

Although Arizona has a reputation for cactus, sand, and desert, there is far more to the state than barren land. In fact, there are many great parks the entire family can enjoy. Here are the ten best parks for families in Arizona.

Grand Canyon National Park

The most famous in Arizona, the Grand Canyon National Park features layers of vivid color created over billions of years through natural erosion. Drive-ups overlook the canyon and there are mule rides and museums. Find camping and lodging at both rims of the canyon. Snowshoers and skiers are welcomed.

Vermilion Cliffs National Monument

A short detour from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim, the Vermilion Cliffs is on the border of Utah, close to the town of Page. There are no roads and very few trails. Therefore, this makes a great park for families who love the wild side of nature.

Encanto Park

Encanto Park is one of the best parks for families in Arizona due to its abundance of things to do. The 222 acres are filled with a seven and a half acre lagoon, swimming pool, picnic areas, boathouse, the Enchanted Island Amusement Park, and two golf courses. Children from 2-10 years old can enjoy the rides. Rock climbing, feeding geese and playing racquetball are also options.

Freestone Park

Opened in 1988, Freestone Park is now 88 acres with softball fields, batting cages, two lakes, and a skate park. The Freestone Railroad with a snack bar and rides gives the younger kids something to do. It’s also a good location for birthday parties. We use to live in the neighborhood Freestone Park is in and we would go feed the ducks every weekend. They have a new, unique play structure for your kiddos too.

Tempe Beach Park

Tempe Beach Park dates back to the 1920s and hosts a variety of events and festivals for the community. The kids can enjoy the biking and hiking paths and the splash pad. The park’s Tempe Town Lake holds almost a billion gallons of water. I’ve run many 5k runs as well as other events here.

Desert Breeze Park

The 47 acre Desert Breeze Park is one of East Valley’s most popular. It has a spray pad, two urban fishing lakes, playgrounds, and athletic courts. The Desert Breeze Railroad, Hummingbird Habitat, and old-fashioned carousel make it one of the best parks for Arizona families.

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park

Located in Scottsdale, this park features nostalgic rides and a historical railroad museum. The model railroad building has four railroad clubs. The historic aspect combined with the two playgrounds make it easily one of the best parks for families in Arizona.

Kiwanis Park

Named after the Kiwanis Club, this park is 125 acres with something for everyone. There is a place to fish, boat rentals, and a variety of sports suitable for the entire family.

Chaparral Park

This park includes a fishing pier that is wheelchair accessible and even fishing and boating on the 10-acre lake. There are lighted soccer and baseball fields, along with volleyball courts and a multi-use court.

Margaret T. Hance Park

Located in downtown Phoenix, this park is 32 acres. It contains the Winship House, McClelland Irish Library, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Irish Cultural Center. The park holds a number of cultural events.