Reviews

TravelingYiaYia

Beautiful setting. Wonderful sunset. We visited in June and the bees were very active. They "harassed" our dog and I got stung once. The showers and restrooms were very clean. And an awesome thunderstorm rolled through, but was over very quickly. The park staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable.

Parker

Amazing hike. This hike is no joke (even though its only less than 3 miles round trip). Like on any hike, bring plenty of water, snacks, and gloves are recommended. 7 dollars for entrance and parking fee for the park.

M5 Travel Family

We stayed at Picacho Peak State Park in mid-January, and what started with a reservation problem on our end ended up becoming one of the most memorable desert stays of our trip. When we arrived, our reservation could not be found, and the park was technically full. Even so, the staff were incredibly kind and worked hard to find a way to keep us there. We ended up moving sites a few times during our stay, but instead of feeling like a hassle, it gave us a chance to experience the park from different angles. Our final site in the A loop ended up being better than anything we would have chosen ourselves. The setting here is what really stays with you. The views around the campground are striking, with saguaros, open desert, and Picacho Peak rising above everything. The peak stands about 3,374 feet high and is one of those landmarks that feels even bigger once you are actually beneath it.  From a camping standpoint, the park worked very well for us. The sites are spacious, they have electric hookups, but no water or sewer hookups (so plan ahead), and everything was simple to access and use. Picacho Peak Road connects the main campground areas, visitor center, and trailheads, so it is easy to get around the park without confusion. The park also has a visitor center, park store, playground, picnic areas, dog park, and historical markers, which makes it especially well set up for families.  One of the highlights for us was how much there was to do without needing to leave the park. We hiked the Children’s Cave Trail (0.2 mile) as a family, and it was short, easy, and very manageable for all ages. The park also offers a wider range of trails, from easy family walks to much more advanced summit routes, so it works well whether you want a quick outing or a real hike.  We also spent time walking the easier paths around the campground, where we could get right up close to the saguaros and other desert plants. Seeing a fallen, decomposing saguaro on the ground was especially interesting for our boys and turned into one of those simple learning moments that made the stay feel even more meaningful. The visitor center was another nice surprise. There is a small gift shop there, and our sons were able to pick out geodes to crack open themselves, which was a huge hit. The facilities were excellent. The restrooms and showers were very clean, and the showers in particular stood out as some of our favorites from the whole trip. One of the most memorable parts of staying here was the night sky. The park hosts star party programming, and once it gets dark, you can immediately understand why. The low light and quiet atmosphere make it an incredible place for stargazing. Quiet hours are 10 am to 6 pm. The surrounding area is also more convenient than it first looks. Right off Exit 219 there is a Shell travel stop and a Dairy Queen, which made it easy to grab fuel or a quick meal. Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is also nearby off Picacho Peak Road if you want something fun and unexpected to do with kids.  What really made this stay stand out, though, was the feeling of the place. Even after the uncertainty when we first arrived, we felt welcomed the entire time. The park has a calm, open atmosphere that naturally slows you down, and between the desert views, family-friendly trails, and night sky, it felt like much more than just a place to camp. Overall, this was one of our favorite stays in Arizona. We came in unsure if things would work out at all and left wishing we could have stayed longer. If you are looking for a campground that combines strong scenery, easy family access, clean facilities, and a real sense of place, Picacho Peak State Park is absolutely worth the stop.

bigfoot woods

Nice area with moderate to easy trails. Twenty dollars for entry per car. Go early and get out early during hotter time of the year!

Jack M

The park staff are probably some of the nicest people you will meet. They really set the tone do your journey ahead The park is beautiful and amazing. The trails are well manicured. This visit was my first visit to the summit of Picacho Peak. Getting to the saddle is awesome. Beyond the saddle be ready for cables and roc climbing. Serious uphill climbing Which means serious down hill climbing back down. I’m over 60. I took my time. Rested along the way and it took me about 6 hours round trip. Some can do it in 3 hours. But meander take your time and enjoy the views.

Ronald Diamond

Hunter trail was difficult as labeled! Amazing views and trail! Bring gloves and lots of water and snacks. Hiking shoes are a must! I had both knees replaced in the last calendar year and this really pushed the limits. Well labeled but serious challenges.

Dean Devereaux

We had ramada's and they were well worth the money because at the end of our group hike we had sandwiches delivered to that location and when we were done with our group hike we all ate like kings. The hike was very hard but I was out of shape. It was worth the work to get up to at least the saddle. If I had had more time I think I could have kept going to the top but I would need probably half a day considering I don't hike much.

Kristen Kary

Really cool spot! We stopped on our way to Tucson from Phoenix. We were able to squeeze in a short hike to the childrens cave it wasnt too challenging as it was only .2 miles, but the inclines could be challenging for some! Very quiet on a Friday afternoon, cute visitor center with affordable items. The ranger on duty was very friendly and chatty. Overall a very nice place!

Deb Thompson

Another nice find right off Route I10. Not many people here tonight. Shower was excellent. All the hot water you want with nice pressure. Also, it is very clean. We had a pull through spot. Easy peasy. Love all the large cacti!

Tauni Wells

First time camping here ... an exceptional campground! Very clean, well-maintained, awesome views! We will be back!

Loren Freyer

No water bring you own can’t beat the view Site are nicely located apart most are somewhat level

TexasSmith McConville

Just be aware that there are snakes here. We had one living in a bush by our spot , but it gave us no problems. Snakes are vital to the system. This is a very beautiful park and we are very glad we stayed there.

Ron Gaddis

Stayed here in a 38ft Renegade plus Jeep. Room for both in loop A-13. Site was secluded. Beautiful setting. 50A, no water, dump. 100 degrees first of April. Lots of trails (well groomed) & hiking. At 100 degreeswe enjoyed neither! But beautiful surroundings. Very clean and neat. We camped at Picacho Peak State Park in a Motorhome.

Hiker Shirl

The best campground for night skies !!!! Wow. Its very day and we could see the Milky Way Campsites were spacious and had electricity. Great hiking trails

Ron Williamson

A beautiful park. The trail up to the top of the mountain is nice. The hike is a bit difficult. There are ropes, and cables, and planks, and things to help pass some areas. Some people decide to not pass one point that is about 2/3 up. The view from the top is incredible. The Cogburn Ostrich Farm is another nice place to visit, and is right near there. and. DQ across the freeway.