Dead Horse Ranch State Park

Located In The Verde River Valley Of Central Arizona, Dead Horse Ranch State Park Has Been Described As An Oasis

This beautiful Arizona State Park is situated on 423 acres of land in the Verde River Valley and it is this river which helps to make Dead Horse Ranch such an oasis of greenery in what is mainly a brown and arid area.The Verde River is one of the largest perennial streams in the whole state.

A tributary of the Salt River, it flows for around 170 miles through Arizona. One of the main population centers along its course is the city of Cottonwood only two miles from Dead Horse Ranch State Park.

The Arizona Countryside At Dead Horse Ranch State Park

In 1986 a six mile stretch of the river came under the control of the Arizona State Parks authorities. It was then given the name of the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area and it covers 480 acres of land adjoining Dead Horse Ranch.

The park has been described as "an oasis in the desert" and it is its lush green setting which has helped to make it so popular. There are around 150 campsites and 8 rental cabins however,even with so many sites, it is always advisable to telephone and make a reservation, especially on weekends or holidays.

The park is renowned as a great place for nature watching and an annual event, the Verde Valley Birding and Nature festival, is held there.

Boat Dock At The Fishing Lagoon, Dead Horse Ranch S.P.

However, the park is not just about the nature. There are almost ten miles of hiking trails as well as access to trailheads in the adjoining Coconino National Forest. Fishing and canoeing are also both popular and anglers have a choice of the river or two large ponds.

All in all if you are visiting the area make sure you call into this one of the Arizona State Parks.

Summary Of Facilities

Visitor Center.

Gift Shop.

106 RV Campsites with water and electric hookups. (3 are handicap accessible)

Modern restrooms with hot showers.

17 tent-only, non-electric campsites.

8 one-room camper cabins.

Group campground with 23 sites. Modern restrooms, hot showers , large shade Ramada and fire-ring.

2 Separate day-use areas.

(1) Close to the Verde River. Has 2 Ramadas available for group reservation. Ramadas have grills, electricity and picnic tables.

(2) Second area is sited by two fishing lagoons. Has 8 Ramadas for reservation, boat launch ramp, dock and fish cleaning station. Modern restrooms are nearby.

10 miles of trails. (Trail system links to the adjacent Coconino National Forest)

Contact Details

Dead Horse Ranch State Park

675 Dead Horse Ranch Road

Cottonwood

AZ 86326

GPS - 34.2102 114.1012

Telephone - (928) 634-5283