canyon de chelly national monument, similar to the grand canyon, has canyons and scenic drives along the rims

26 Unique Arizona National Parks & Monuments Not To Miss

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Are you looking for Arizona national parks and monuments for your next adventure to the state? Look no further as we cover all that the National Park Service offers in the way of incredible sites to keep you busy!

Ah, Arizona, the land of cacti, canyons, and yes, a whole host of National Parks that are just waiting for you to get lost in (not literally, of course!).

We’ve been lucky enough to visit a chunk of these natural wonders and even spent a whole winter getting cozy with some saguaros – we bet you can’t say that about your last winter break!

From the expansive sights of the Grand Canyon to the sacred spaces of Canyon De Chelly, these places aren’t just parks to us.

They’re memories, adventures, and home to the world’s most competitive game of ‘I Spy.’

So, if you’re a traveler searching for Arizona’s best national sites, you’ve stumbled upon the right place.

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Arizona National Parks: What’s Included

Wondering why some lists have 3, some 22, and some 29 or more? Well, it is because what is considered Arizona national parks (or units) can be up to interpretation.

For our list, we have chosen to stick to only national units overseen by the NPS (National Park Service). So, if you know of a designated national area in Arizona we missed, it is likely because it is overseen by the US Forest Service or the Bureau of Land Management.

The National Park Service oversees 420+ national units, which include parks, historic sites, monuments, recreation areas, and more.

National Parks In Arizona

Get ready because we’re about to embark on an exciting trip to the magnificent trifecta of Arizona’s National Parks.

Not only will we marvel at nature’s beauty, but we’ll also prove that Arizona has more to offer than just a perfect backdrop for your next selfie!

1. Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is by far the most popular of the national parks in Arizona, with more than 4 million visitors per year. In fact, in 2021, it was the 4th most visited park in the US.

the most popular of arizona national parks is Grand canyon.  There is the expansive canyon with some low lying clouds

It is considered one of the world’s seven natural wonders and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Grand Canyon is a spectacular gorge carved out by the Colorado River over millions of years. This has exposed colorful layers of sedimentary rock. The park spans 1.2 million acres and preserves immense biological diversity due to its varied elevation and climate zones.

Hiking trails can be found along the upper rim, as well as winding through the imposing canyon walls. If you head into the inner rim, you can find some secluded spots where you will see some of the most stunning scenery in the world.

The Grand Canyon has tons of activities to do during a visit. Everything from riding the train to helicopter tours and even riding a mule to the bottom.

We suggest making sure you take one of these tours for a unique experience.

🌵 Great Chasm or Grand Rip-off? Join us as we dig deep into whether the Grand Canyon is worth your buckaroo bucks or just a fancy ditch!

2. Petrified Forest National Park

Got your hiking boots laced up and your water bottles filled?

Good, because we’re about to embark on a journey through Petrified Forest National Park.

This 230 square mile wonderland is a science nerds’ paradise and a historian’s dream date, all wrapped up in one.

It’s home to the Rainbow Forest, where you’ll find the world’s largest and most colorful concentration of petrified wood. Like literally, trees that turned into stone – talk about commitment issues!

But the fun doesn’t stop at ancient trees, no sir. The park is also a fossil-freak’s fantasy land, with remnants of over 200 species from the late Triassic period.

And we’re not just talking about plants here – creatures like early dinosaurs and giant amphibians used to call this place home.

Oh, and don’t forget the Painted Desert. It’s like nature grabbed a paintbrush and went all Picasso on the landscape. The desert’s vibrant colors will make your photos look like a vintage postcard; no filter needed.

Now, for the exciting part – what can you do here? Well, how about taking a hike along the Giant Logs trail?

Not only will you see logs as long as 189 feet, but you’ll also get up close and personal with ‘Old Faithful,’ the park’s most massive log.

🌵 Buckle Up, Buttercup: From Saguaro Standoffs to Petrified Forest Fandangos – An Epic Journey Across Arizona’s Best!

3. Saguaro National Park

Saguaro National Park is an incredible desert park located on the outskirts of Tucson.

saguaro national park is one of three arizona national parks, seen is saguaro cactus throughout with a mountain backdrop

The park is renowned for its iconic namesake cactus – the saguaro – which grows in abundance here. These majestic plants can reach up to 60 feet tall and live as long as 200 years. They are an impressive sight to behold and a must-see for anyone visiting the area.

Explore its scenic drives and hike its many trails to get up close and personal with the stunning desert landscape and its diverse wildlife.

Saguaro National Park is the perfect place to visit if you are interested in birdwatching. Species like vultures, hawks, quails, roadrunners, and more call this area home.

On your visit to the park, make time to explore the desert at night. While close to Tucson, the mountains block most of the light pollution, providing some pleasant stargazing opportunities.

You can also see animals like bats, coyotes, and javelinas that come alive after dark.

🌵 Saguaro Springtime Spree: When Mother Nature Puts On Her High Heels and Turns the Desert Into a Dance Floor!

National Units In Arizona

These aren’t official national parks in Arizona, but the following are all monuments and historically relevant sites that the NPS oversees. And they can be even more incredible than the official parks…with fewer crowds.

4. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is one of the most amazing archaeological sites in the United States.

The site dates back to about 1350 and showcases remnants of a four-story adobe structure, aka the Great House. This house was built by the ancient Hohokam people who lived in the area.

Unfortunately, due to its delicate nature, you are not allowed into the building.

Instead, you are welcome to roam the perimeter and learn more about its history through interpretive exhibits around the structure. There are also some smaller ruins scattered around that you can examine.

🌵 Houston, We Have a Problem: When the Lone Star State Meets the Grand Canyon – Y’all Better Buckle Up!

5. Canyon De Chelly National Monument

Why not take a quick detour to Canyon De Chelly National Monument? This place is like the Grand Canyon’s cool, mysterious cousin that only shows up at family reunions.

canyon de chelly national monument is similar to the grand canyon but on a smaller scale, seen here is the canyon with spider rock formation at the bottom right

Located in northeastern Arizona, it’s one of North America’s longest continuously inhabited landscapes, with evidence of human presence dating back over 5,000 years.

Here’s a fun fact: Unlike most national parks, Canyon De Chelly is uniquely privately owned and operated by the Navajo Nation.

So, you’re not just walking through a canyon; you’re strolling through someone’s backyard.

The canyon’s walls are adorned with ancient petroglyphs and pictographs, some of which might be the earliest memes – who knows?

And if you’re into jaw-dropping views, visit Spider Rock, an 800-foot sandstone spire that’s basically nature’s skyscraper.

You’ll need a Navajo guide to enter the canyon, but it’s worth it to hear the stories and history from the people who’ve lived there for generations.

Just remember to bring your respect and curiosity along with your sunblock!

🌵 Unveiling Utah’s Secret Rodeo: Exploring the Untamed Beauty of National Parks Near St. George, Where Every Sandstone Holds a Story!

6. Chiricahua National Monument

Chiricahua National Monument is home to some interesting and unique rock formations.

The park’s namesake, Chiricahua Mountains, is composed of eroded volcanic and sedimentary rocks, creating an impressive landscape of hoodoos and spires.

Among the hoodoos sits a variety of unique, balanced rocks to marvel at during your visit.

The park has a scenic drive available. But we recommend you get out and hike the more than 17 miles of trails within the park.

If you head to Chiricahua National Monument, you shouldn’t miss a chance to visit Faraway Ranch Historic District. This historic area preserves some houses and buildings dating back to the late 1800s.

Today, you can explore the area and learn more about life on the Arizona frontier during that time. It also provides stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.

🌵 Ghost Town or Party Central? Stirring Up Dust and Fun in Tombstone – A Wild West Adventure You Can’t Afford to Miss!

7. Coronado National Memorial

Next stop: Coronado National Memorial!

a small creek runs next to a cactus covered hillside in coronado national memorial

Now, don’t let the name fool you. There’s no grand statue of a guy named Coronado here.

Instead, this place commemorates Europeans’ first organized expedition into the Southwest. That’s right, Francisco Vásquez de Coronado and his merry band of explorers were the first tourists in these parts.

The memorial is tucked away in the southeastern corner of Arizona, which is quite fitting as Coronado was all about those obscure locations.

But don’t sweat it. You won’t need to battle wild beasts or cross treacherous terrain like our adventurers of yesteryear.

If you’re a nature junkie, you’re in for a treat.

The park is home to over 20 types of orchids – who knew the desert could be so… floral?

The memorial is also a part of the Sky Island mountain ranges, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Take that, Amazon Rainforest!

As for things to do, let us pitch you this – a scenic drive up to Montezuma Pass. It offers breathtaking views of the San Pedro River Valley and Mexico.

Just remember to pack your binoculars – the view is to die for, but preferably not literally, okay?

🌵 Sin City to Majestic Canyons: Swap Poker Chips for Nature Trips on a Vegas to Grand Canyon Tour!

8. Fort Bowie National Historic Site

Fort Bowie National Historic Site is a historic site that commemorates the former US Army post of Fort Bowie.

The fort was established in 1862 during the conflicts with the Chiricahua Apache. It served as a base for military operations until it was abandoned in 1894.

Take a self-guided walking tour of the ruins of the original fort and other building remnants, such as the barracks and officers’ quarters.

Then head into the visitor center, which displays artifacts from the Apache Wars and a timeline of events.

To get to the visitors center, you will need to hike 1.5 miles. But along the way, you will have the opportunity to see the cemetery and other historic sites.

🌵 From Spa Resorts to Spooky Spectacles: A Wild Ride from Scottsdale to Tombstone – Where Luxury Meets the Uncanny Wild West!

9. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (also in Utah)

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is an expansive park that covers 1.2 million acres of spectacular terrain in Utah and Arizona.

glen canyon national recreation area seen for a distance where the lake is seen flowing between and around rock formations

The area is known for its incredible beauty and offers you the chance to explore a variety of landscapes, from the vivid red sandstone canyons to rugged mountains and vast deserts.

Popular activities here include boating, fishing, and kayaking on Lake Powell. The lake is the second largest artificial reservoir in the United States, after Lake Mead.

Alternatively, you can hike the various trails that circle the lake. Or visit nearby areas for beautiful views of the sandstone landscape.

We recommend hiking to Horseshoe Bend. It is one of the park’s most recognized and photographed places, but with excellent reason.

While we haven’t yet been ourselves, it is at the very top of our list. We can’t wait to head back to Arizona and see it in person.

🌵 Red Rocks to Grand Rocks: Say Howdy to the Ride of Your Life from Sedona to the Grand Canyon!

10. Grand Canyon-Parashant

We’re off to the Grand Canyon-Parashant, the lesser-known sibling of the Grand Canyon. Not as famous, but hey, isn’t it the quiet ones you have to watch out for?

Parashant is remote, untamed, and has a whopping one million acres of raw beauty.

No visitor centers, paved roads, or mollycoddling – it’s just you and Mother Nature, mano a mano.

This place is a geologist’s dream, and even if you can’t tell a rock from a hard place, you’ll be awestruck by the multi-layered geological strata.

You’ve got rocks dating back 1.7 billion years, folks. That’s not just vintage; that’s antique!

Spend some time stargazing on a visit. This place is a designated International Night Sky Province, meaning it’s got bling that’ll outshine any Hollywood star.

So, grab a blanket, lie down, and watch the cosmos put on a show just for you.

Remember to pack your sense of adventure and leave your Wi-Fi expectations at home. This place is all about disconnecting and tuning into the rhythm of the planet.

11. Lake Mead National Recreation Area (also in Nevada)

Listen up, water babies and thrill-seekers!

Next on our list is the Lake Mead National Recreation Area, America’s first and largest national recreation area. It’s so big it makes your high school football field look like a sandbox.

the rocky landscape around lake mead is beautiful with its multiple colored layers and calm waters

Stretching an impressive 1.5 million acres, Lake Mead is a playground for all you aqua enthusiasts out there.

Boating, fishing, and swimming are all on the menu here, but if you’re more of a landlubber, no worries.

There are scenic drives, hiking trails, and even some ancient rock art to keep you busy.

The star of the show, though, is the Hoover Dam – a marvel of modern engineering that’s wedged right in there, holding back the mighty Colorado River.

Fancy a peek? You can take a tour inside the dam itself. How’s that for a status update?

So, if you’re all about that lake life and you love your history with a side of adrenaline, the Lake Mead National Recreation Area is calling your name. Don’t keep it waiting!

12. Hohokam Pima National Monument

Hohokam Pima National Monument is a monument that you can’t visit at this time.

So why are we mentioning it? Well, it is a national unit overseen by the NPS in Arizona and meets the parameters of our article.

The monument protects and preserves the ruins of an ancient, pre-Columbian civilization that flourished along the Gila River around 300-1200. It is known as Snaketown today.

What are you missing? The site has been excavated on a couple of occasions for research but then promptly backfilled to protect it. So if you were to gain access today, it would be mounds of dirt with ruins hidden underground.

The site is located on the Gila River Indian Reservation. They have chosen not to open it to the public.

However, if you want to learn more about Snaketown, you can find some artifacts and information at Casa Grande Ruins (which we listed above).

13. Montezuma Castle National Monument

Montezuma Castle National Monument is located in the Verde Valley of central Arizona.

one of the arizona national parks, montezuma castle national monument has a beautiful cliff dwelling in the limestone wall as seen here

The park contains impressive ancient cliff dwellings, built sometime between 1100 and 1300 by the Sinagua people, a pre-Columbian Native American culture that lived in the area.

The monument’s primary structure consists of a five-story complex of 20 rooms built into a limestone cliff face.

Visitors to the Montezuma Castle National Monument can enjoy stunning views of the dwellings. You can also explore a trail that weaves through the area and get a better sense of the environment where the Sinagua people lived.

Staying in Sedona? You can do an incredible tour that has you visiting FIVE national monuments, including Montezuma Castle. This private tour requires a minimum of four guests, but this 5 ⭐️ tour may be just what you are looking for.

➡️ Check Prices & Availability for Five National Monuments

📎 Tip: While lesser know, about 20 minutes down the road you can visit Montezuma Well. The sinkhole is fed from an underground spring and always has a constant water supply.

14. Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site

Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site preserves the former trading post established by John Lorenzo Hubbell in 1878 to trade with the Navajo.

The site includes the original buildings, which were constructed with handmade adobe bricks.

During your visit, you can learn about this area’s history, including the Navajo Nation’s rich culture. You can explore old artifacts on display and purchase recently made arts and crafts.

The site also offers a variety of programs, such as demonstrations in weaving rugs.

We recommend you check out Hubbell’s homestead, including the livestock. And walk Veterans Trail for a bit of beautiful nature.

15. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Alright, cactus lovers, this one’s for you.

Meet the one and only Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. It’s a spiky wonderland where cacti aren’t just plants; they’re the stars of the show.

organ pipe cactus national monument after dark with stars set behind tall cactus

This paradise stretches over 330,000 acres of the Sonoran desert in Arizona. It’s also one of the sunniest spots in the US, so maybe keep that in mind when packing.

This national monument is home to 28 species of cacti, but the real celeb here is the Organ Pipe Cactus.

It’s the only place you’ll find this guy in the whole U.S., so it’s kind of a big deal.

But hey, it’s not all about looking at spiky things.

You can go hiking, take a scenic drive, or do some star-gazing.

The nighttime sky here is so clear you’ll swear you can see the Milky Way’s phone number.

Strap on those hiking boots, pack that water bottle, and get ready to meet some prickly friends. Just remember — hugs are discouraged.

16. Navajo National Monument

Navajo National Monument is situated in the northern part of Arizona’s Navajo Nation, near the Four Corners region.

It is known for its ancient cliff dwellings, made from sandstone and mud that were built by ancestral Puebloans around 1250. The park consists of three main sites: Betatakin, Keet Seel, and Inscription House.

If you prefer self-touring, you can hike the Sandal Trail to an overlook to view Betatakin.

Otherwise, you will need to take a guided tour for a closer view of Betatakin or Keet Seel. The hikes are considered strenuous.

There is no way to access the Inscription House at this time.

17. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is a testament to the power of nature and its ability to shape the landscape.

sunset crater volcano national monument is one of the unique arizona national parks to see, with views seen here of the crater between the cone

The monument encompasses more than 3,000 acres surrounding an extinct volcano that erupted sometime around 1085. It is renowned for its unique geological features, including its cinder cone and lava flow field.

Visitors to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument can explore the area on foot or by car.

While a scenic drive circles the crater and provides a viewpoint, we recommend enjoying a hike for a closer look.

The Lava Flow Trail is a popular one-mile walking trail that winds its way near the base of the cinder cone, offering stunning views of the monument’s otherworldly features. You can also check out the Bonito Vista Trail, which provides an impressive view of the lava flow.

📎 Note: You are no longer allowed to hike to the summit of Sunset Crater due to erosion.

18. Pipe Spring National Monument

Pipe Spring National Monument is a historic and scenic site on the Kaibab Indian Reservation.

The monument preserves the homestead and fort of early Mormon settlers from around the 1860s. Initially established as a cattle ranch, conflicts with Native American tribes led to a fort being established.

You can explore Winsor Castle (aka the fort) to see the living quarters of 19th-century ranchers and their families.

Head to the corrals to see horses and longhorn cattle. And if it is in season, enjoy the benefits of the garden and orchard.

Make sure to swing by the visitor center to learn about the Mormon settlers and how they interacted with the Kaibab Paiute tribe. You will find exhibits as well as artifacts.

19. Tumacacori National Historical Park

Tumacacori National Historical Park is a special place with a rich history.

the mission Tumacacori is the most popular mission to visit as part of the historic park that contains 3 missions, it has been restored so you can go inside

Located in southern Arizona, it preserves the ruins of three Spanish colonial missions, including Los Santos Angeles de Guevavi (est 1691), San Jose de Tumacacori (est 1753), and San Cayetano de Calabazas (est 1756).

You can explore these missions, learn about their history, and experience the area’s culture.

San Jose de Tumacacori is the most popular to visit and was restored to some of its former glory. Look around the grounds to see the cemetery, fountain, and mortuary, and head inside to look at the mission itself.

Additionally, on weekends during the winter when the weather is cooler, you can enjoy craft demonstrations and purchase some artwork.

If you wish to visit the Calabazas and Guevavi mission ruins, you must book a guided tour.

20. Tonto National Monument

Next up on our virtual tour — the extraordinary Tonto National Monument.

Nestled in the rugged desert landscapes, these well-preserved cliff dwellings date back to the 13th century.

Built by the Salado people, they’re a tangible piece of history that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine.

Tonto National Monument covers a whopping 1,120,000 acres, making it the largest of the six national forests in Arizona. So, there’s plenty of room to stretch those legs.

And for all you adventure seekers out there, guess what? You can actually hike up to these ancient dwellings!

Imagine the killer selfie opportunities.

A couple of trails to note are the Lower Cliff Dwelling Trail and Upper Cliff Dwelling Trail. But remember, the upper trail requires a guided tour, so no going rogue.

📎 Tip: Don’t take any ‘souvenirs.’ These rocks have been around longer than any of us, let’s keep it that way, shall we?

21. Walnut Canyon National Monument

We hope you’re not tired yet, because we’re off to Walnut Canyon National Monument.

dwelling ruins at walnut canyon national monument

Don’t let the name fool you; we’re not just talking about a ditch with some walnuts in it.

This beauty is nestled near Flagstaff, Arizona and was once home to the Sinagua people, who were clearly not scared of heights as they built their homes in the cliffs.

With a surface area of 3,600 acres (who’s counting?), this place is a blend of history, geology, and breathtaking views that’ll leave you more breathless than a 5k run.

The Island Trail will guide you through 25 cliff dwelling rooms, giving you a real-life glimpse into the lives of the Sinagua people – it’s like your own personal episode of ‘Cribs: Ancient Edition.’

For those of you who are more into flora and fauna, the Rim Trail is your best bet, offering a gentle walk with a chance to spot some wildlife.

If you’re lucky, you might even see an elk or a bobcat!

22. Tuzigoot National Monument

Tuzigoot National Monument is an ancient Sinagua ruin.

The monument consists of a two-story pueblo situated atop a mesa overlooking the Verde Valley. It was built around 1125 by the Sinagua people and abandoned around 1400.

The pueblo has around 110 rooms and is considered one of the best-preserved Sinagua ruins in this area.

When visiting Tuzigoot National Monument, you should explore the museum at the visitor center. The museum has extensive displays of the history and lifestyles of the Sinagua people, as well as artifacts, ceramics, and textiles found during the excavation.

After learning more about the monument and its people, head to the pueblo on a self-guided tour of the ruins. The trail is easily accessible and provides stunning views of the Verde River.

If you love taking guided tours, this tour is a perfect option as it combines Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot. And if that isn’t enough it is also a PRIVATE tour for just you and your loved ones.

➡️ Check Prices & Availability for the Montezuma/Tuzigoot Tour


23. Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki National Monument is an ancient Puebloan site used by various civilizations. Not only did the Sinagua people live here, but so did the Cohonina and the Kayenta.

ancient indian pueblo at wupatki national monument with gorgeous lighting and mountains in the background

That means that this area was used on and off for hundreds (if not thousands) of years.

The monument consists of numerous archaeological sites, including the Wukoki and Lomaki pueblos.

The pueblos range from tiny pit houses built by early hunter-gatherer groups to large pueblos constructed by the Sinagua people in the mid-1100s.

Make sure to take the time to explore Wupatki Pueblo, the largest and best-preserved of all the ruins in the national monument. The pueblo site houses a multi-story building with over 100 rooms, a ball court, and a community room.

Arizona National Trails

We are just going to touch on these quickly. These trails run through part of Arizona, and many of the stops that can be seen along the trails are national and state-protected sites.

24. Butterfield Overland National Historic Trail

Now, don’t let the long name intimidate you, it’s really just a fancy way of saying ‘an old path that people used to use to deliver mail.’

Yep, that’s right! This trail was used to transport mail and passengers from 1858 to 1861.

It stretches (and we mean stretches) for a whopping 2,800 miles from Missouri to California, passing through the heart of Arizona.

In Arizona, you can see the trail at the Dragoon Springs stage station site, where four graves serve as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by early travelers (talk about getting lost in the mail!).

And if you’re feeling brave, you can hike a portion of this trail, following in the footsteps of those first postal workers.

Just remember, unlike them, you can’t deliver mail via this trail, so don’t try it. We’ve advanced to emails now, you know.

petrified forest national park has amazingly colorful mounds with distinct linear coloring

25. Juan Bautista De Anza National Historic Trail

The Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail is a 1,200-mile route that follows the path of Spanish explorer Juan Bautista de Anza.

It commemorates the 1775-76 expedition of Bautista de Anza, who led over 200 settlers from northern Mexico to California.

The trail is significant as it serves as an early example of successful immigration and settlement that ultimately led to the founding of one of the most vibrant cities in America today, San Francisco.

26. Old Spanish National Historic Trail

Our final stop is the Old Spanish National Historic Trail.

This oldie but goldie was a 19th-century trade route connecting Santa Fe, New Mexico, with Los Angeles, California.

The Arizona portion offers a glimpse into an era when trade was on mules, not Amazon.

Arizona’s segment of the trail, the Armijo Route, has some serious eye candy. We’re talking vast desert landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and centuries-old cultural sites.

And no, there’s no Wi-Fi, so bring a camera.

While you’re there, check out the Little Colorado River Valley.

You’ll see the actual ruts worn by the mule trains (talk about heavy traffic!).

Also, don’t miss the Four Corners Monument, the only point in the U.S. where four states intersect. It’s a geography nerd’s dream!

rock pillars and balanced rocks as far as the eye can see in chiricahua national monument

Rundown Of The National Parks In Arizona

It’s recap time! We’ve hit the dusty trails, played ‘count the cacti’, and time-traveled like we’ve stolen a DeLorean.

Now, let’s take a leisurely stroll down memory lane as we recap all the unforgettable places from our epic journey across Arizona’s national parks and monuments.

Recap Of The National Parks

Here is a quick list recap of all the Arizona national parks & monuments. We’ve broken it down by sub-category in case you want to visit certain types of places like historic sites or trails only.

  • Arizona National Parks
    • Grand Canyon
    • Petrified Forest
    • Saguaro
  • National Monuments
    • Canyon De Chelly
    • Casa Grande Ruins
    • Chiricahua
    • Grand Canyon-Parashant
    • Hohokam Pima (you can’t visit this one at this time)
    • Montezuma Castle
    • Navajo
    • Organ Pipe Cactus
    • Pipe Spring
    • Sunset Crater Volcano
    • Tonto
    • Tuzigoot
    • Walnut Canyon
    • Wupatki
  • National Memorial
    • Coronado
  • National Historical Park
    • Tumacacori
  • National Historic Site
    • Fort Bowie
    • Hubbell Trading Post
  • National Recreation Area
    • Glen Canyon
    • Lake Mead
  • National Historic Trail
    • Butterfield Overland
    • Juan Bautista De Anza
    • Old Spanish

Map of Arizona National Parks & Monuments

To visually see where all the national parks in Arizona are located, we are providing this custom map.

The purple stops indicate the three official national parks, and the green stops are the rest of the national units under NPS care.

We have not included the trails on the map as there is not a single location, but rather miles and miles of the route you can follow.

FAQS For National Parks In Arizona

It’s time to simmer down, gather ’round the campfire, and get those brains ready for a knowledge feast.

We’re about to tackle the Wild West of questions about Arizona National Parks.

So, put on your best problem-solving cowboy boots, because we’re going for a ride into the sunset of answers – no tumbleweeds of doubt allowed here, partner.

How Many National Parks Are In Arizona?

Ah, the million-dollar question – or, at least, a question worth the entry fee to a park. Arizona is home to a grand total of 3 national parks. Yep, just 3 – Grand Canyon, Petrified Forest, and Saguaro. But don’t let the number fool you; these parks pack in more beauty than a barrel full of sunsets!

What Is The Famous Park In Arizona?

Grand Canyon National Park is the gem that sparkles the brightest in Arizona’s crown. This jaw-dropping beauty with its gorges, ridges, and heart-stopping views is more famous than a celebrity cactus at a Wild West showdown. Now go on and tell your friends you’ve learned something today!

Is Antelope Canyon In A National Park?

Antelope Canyon, as stunning as it is, doesn’t quite make the national park cut. Nope, it’s actually part of the Navajo Nation Parks. So, while it’s not technically in a national park, it’s still worth a gander for its rockin’ rock formations.

What Is The Best month To Visit Arizona National Parks?

The best time to stampede into Arizona’s national parks is during Spring (March to May). It’s like the Goldilocks of seasons – not too hot, not too cold, just right. Plus, you’ll avoid the tourist rush, leaving more room for you, the cacti, and the wide-open skies. Bingo!

What Is The Most Visited Place In Arizona?

The most visited spot in Arizona is none other than the Grand Canyon! This monumental marvel lures millions of looky-loos every year, making it the reigning champion of tourist attractions. Truly a sight you’d sell your cowboy boots to see!

saguaro cactus along with floor brush at sunset with a pink and orange sky

To Finish – Unique Arizona National Parks & Monuments

So there you have it! The low-down on Arizona national parks, from the star-spangled Grand Canyon to the petrified wonders of the Petrified Forest, and the towering Saguaros.

These breathtaking landscapes are more than a testament to Mother Nature’s artistic talents; they’re a hollerin’ invitation to step away from the humdrum and into the extraordinary.

Whether you’re a seasoned saddle rider or a greenhorn looking for adventure, this state’s national parks offer a stampede of stunning sights that’ll leave you hankering for more.

If you are looking to spend time at one of the most famous national parks in Arizona, the Grand Canyon, we have the perfect two-day itinerary to keep you busy at the South Rim.