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Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
(Photo: AZ State Parks)

 

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Conservation Concerns in Arizona: State Parks

Arizona's state parks are under significant pressure as a result of extremely tight budgets. Thanks to the efforts of community organizations and their committed volunteers, all but one of Arizona's state parks are open at least part of the time, but the parks remain at risk, without long-term assurances of stable funding for operations and capital expenditures.

Arizona's state parks are showcases of the state's magnificent scenery and colorful history, and they provide outstanding recreation opportunities for Arizonans and for out-of-state tourists. State parks are great places for learning and inspiration--such as the stunning subterranean world at Kartchner Caverns; the amazing history of Picacho Peak, site of the westernmost battle of the Civil War; the centuries-old ruins at Homolovi; and Tonto Natural Bridge, the largest travertine limestone bridge in the world.

Arizona's state parks are worth saving and cherishing for ourselves and future generations. Public lands are not a luxury. As Theodore Roosevelt said more than a century ago, public lands are essential for keeping America a strong and prosperous democracy. Our country’s outdoor heritage, open to every citizen from every walk of life, strengthens our economy, enlivens our culture, and enriches our lives.