It Took Almost 16 Years, But Arizona’s Newest State Park Rockin’ River Ranch Opens Today

Rockin’ River Ranch, located in Camp Verde, is the first Arizona state park to open since 2016.

Starting today, the public can enjoy six scenic trails ranging between 0.2 and 1.7 miles, plus fishing along the biodiverse Verde River. The Arizona park also offers picnic areas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and more recreational activities across its 209 acres.

Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9 am – 5 pm. 

Entries are permitted prior to 4 pm and cost $7 per vehicle. Walk-in and bicycle entries cost $3 per individual.

Governor Katie Hobbs spoke at yesterday’s grand opening ceremony, which was also attended by area officials and project associates. 

“Thank you to all our amazing community partners and stakeholders who helped us reach this milestone,” said Arizona State Parks and Trails Executive Director Bob Broscheid. 

His written statement continues, “Being able to share this beautiful space is something that our agency has been working toward for more than a decade, and we are excited to open the park and welcome visitors.”

Why Did It Take Nearly 16 Years to Open Rockin’ River Ranch?

The Rockin’ River Ranch property was previously a privately owned guest ranch with horse-riding opportunities. 

Trail rides led into the Coconino and Prescott National Forests, which border the property. A large main lodge and guest houses also appeared on the ranch, among other structures. 

On October 16, 2008, it was acquired by Arizona State Parks and Trails as part of the existing Verde River Greenway State Natural Area. When first designated in 1984, the natural area protected six river miles. Today, it encompasses 35 river miles and nearly 1,000 acres of riparian and upland habitat. 

The waterway and its banks within Rockin’ River Ranch have been shielded from development since 2008, protecting native fish and both resident and migratory birds. But otherwise, the 7-million-dollar purchase served little purpose for almost 16 years.

Master planning began in 2017 and $4 million in construction improvements were to have started the following year. 

But according to a 2018 article by The Associated Press, decisions made by former Arizona State Parks and Trails director Sue Black set back the schedule. 

“Higher-than-expected site preparation costs” on a separate project ate away at the agency’s budget. Additionally, Black was alleged to have bulldozed potential archeological sites during her tenure, which led to her termination in November 2018. 

AZCentral.com noted, “State parks staff intended to start construction on [Rockin’ River Ranch State Park] in 2018, but without fully assessing the site for cultural and archaeological resources first.” 

Despite the rocky start, the agency got its ducks in a row and visitors have much to look forward to in this new destination. 

Rockin’ River Ranch Features Diverse Habitats, Local Wildlife, and Recreational Activities

This day-use park has several unique features, including: 

• Six multi-use trails which highlight the park’s riparian zone, mature sycamore and cottonwood trees, and its mesquite bosque — an ecological community unique to the Sonoran Desert. 
• Opportunities to spot local wildlife such as javelina, coyotes, and river otters, plus mule and white-tailed deer. 
• Birdwatching notable species including summer tanager, great blue heron, and waterfowl like mallards and Northern Shovelers. 
• Fishing for bass, catfish, panfish, and the rare rainbow trout in the Verde River.
• A visitor center/gift shop, picnic areas, spacious parking, and on-site restrooms. 

Hiking, mountain biking, and leashed pets are permitted on trails, as is equestrian use. A stable is also located on-site. 

Two other Arizona state parks are located nearby. In Camp Verde, Fort Verde State Historic Park preserves the Apache Wars-era fort and highlights military history in the 1870s and 80s. Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood features numerous forms of outdoor recreation, as well as cabin rentals.