Starting September 1, 2025, Camp Verde’s Rockin’ River Ranch State Park will welcome visitors Thursdays through Mondays, expanding from its previous weekend-only schedule. The 209-acre park nestled at the confluence of West Clear Creek and the Verde River, is a day-use park bursting with outdoor recreation opportunity, now available two additional days each week.
Arizona State Parks and Trails operates as a self-sustaining agency, funding its parks through entrance fees, retail sales, and donations rather than relying on state tax dollars. To help cover the costs of staffing, maintenance, and programming, the agency raised park fees in February 2025.
Current Entrance Fees
- $10 per person (single)
- $20 per vehicle (for 2–4 people)
- $5 per individual (entering on foot or bicycle)
Bob Broscheid, executive director of Arizona State Parks and Trails said, “We’re thrilled to be able to welcome more visitors into the park with these expanded days of operation. This is something we have been working towards and that our customers have been asking for since the park opened last year.
He continued, “This is made possible because we were able to increase staffing at the park, thanks to the revenue earned through our entrance fees. We Arizonans love our public lands, and as an agency, we’re grateful to the many people who are proud to support our parks by simply visiting and enjoying them. We hope to eventually expand to daily operations with additional staffing increases in the future.”
Highlights & Popular Trails
A Network of Six Scenic, Multi-use Trails
The park offers nearly four miles of interconnected trails suited for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. These meander through riparian zones, mesquite bosques, and pasture lands, with river views and abundant wildlife along the way.
From family outings like the Shady Acres Trail (0.2 miles), reaching the Verde River under cool trees, to longer routes like the White Cliffs Trail (1.7-mile loop) offering sunlit riverside panoramas—the park caters to diverse preferences.
Connector paths—including Buckaroo Trail (0.4 miles), Outlaw Trail (0.3 miles), and Miano Trail (0.3 miles)—dovetail to create loops or longer adventures.
Wildlife & Fishing
The park’s dual ecosystems—riparian habitat along the Verde River and high-desert terrain—are magnets for wildlife. Visitors can spot deer, javelina, beaver, river otters, and a multitude of birds, including blue herons. Anglers are also welcomed, and have the chance to catch a wide variety of fish including largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and Verde River catfish.
Riverfront Access & Picnic Spots
Multiple access points along the Verde River offer spots for skipping stones, quiet contemplation, or simple riverside rest. The South (“Shady Acres”) trail leads right to a shaded picnic spot, well-suited for family snacks or a peaceful break.
Historical Roots
The park preserves its legacy as a former guest ranch (operational until 2008) with equestrian boarding and ranch trails now open to visitors. The old ranch house and pastures retain a rustic charm, reminding visitors of its heritage.
Arizona State Parks, Park Manager Jennifer Steffen notes, “People love this park for its serene setting, river access, and abundance of wildlife.” A local reviewer even called it a “hidden gem,” highlighting the peaceful trails, shaded river access, and quiet picnic spots as standout features.
Jennifer Steffen said, “We’re so thankful to all who continue to support this beautiful place, from our volunteers who are leading new programs like our monthly butterfly walks, to our visitors who share photos and stories with us of the critters and birds that they spotted during their hike, and community partners who have hosted service projects here.”
Visit azstateparks.com/rockin-river for the latest information on events held at Rockin’ River Ranch State Park.
0 Comments