RV Arizona

Picacho Peak Civil War reenactment returns in March

2012-02-14T15:06:00.000-08:00

This year marks the 100th year of statehood for Arizona, the state that still thinks of itself as the Wild West. In celebration of the Centennial, Picacho Peak State Park will hold its annual civil war reenactment on the weekend of March 10 - 11 from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The event marks the 150th anniversary of the battle of Picacho Pass, one of the most Western most battles of the American civil War. The celebration features re-enactments, civil war campsites to tour, and period merchandise for sale.

Hours will be 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for both days. Vehicle entrance fee is $10 for up to four persons, and $3 per person after that. Individual entrance by foot or bike is $3.

With budget cuts and staff reductions the park can always use volunteers. To find out how you can help or to get more information visit the event website or call (520) 466-3183.

Camping season starts early in Arizona

2012-02-07T06:31:00.000-08:00

The 2012 camping season starts early in Arizona. Warm days and cool nights, combined with Arizona’s diverse landscape and spectacular scenery, provide a wide range of camping experiences to campers each Spring. Here are some of the best according to the editors of iForestCamping.com.

Campsite at Bonito campground

●Bonito campground, in the Coconino National Forest, is east of Flagstaff, west of Sunset Crater Volcano and south of the Wupatki National Monuments. Almost in the shadow of the San Francisco Mountains and with flush toilets, groundcover of colorful cinders, and generous campsites, makes Bonito campground an excellent base camp for exploring the community of Flagstaff, neighboring national monuments, or Coconino’s many natural features. Towering Ponderosa pines cast long shadows, offering pleasant shade, and reminding visitors there’s more to Arizona than deserts.

●Cochise Stronghold campground, in the Coronado National Forest, is a place of history. In the mid-1800s, a band of Chiricahua Apache, lead by Cochise, sought shelter and peace here. The tall surrounding bluffs provided natural lookouts for sharp eyed warriors and protection from the elements. A self-guided interpretative trail offers information about the plants the Chiricahuas used for food and clothing. The campsites are scattered among boulders shaded by native oak trees and fancifully shaped rocks. One feels the presence of past inhabitants here.

●Ten-X campground, in the Kaibab National Forest, is a perfect place to enjoy the Grand Canyon National Park - South Rim. An alternative to high density national park campgrounds, the campground has spacious campsites that are shaded, level, and will accommodate any size RV. Plus, it is convenient to several nearby businesses, diners, and motels.

Spacious campsite at Jacob Lake Campground

●DeMotte and Jacob Lake campgrounds, also in the Kaibab National Forest, are on the the Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim and well situated for exploring the area. At 1,000 feet above the campgrounds on the South Rim, temperatures are cooler. DeMotte, closest to the park and at the edge of a huge mountain meadow, is outstanding for wildlife viewing. Jacob Lake campground, farther from the park, is popular for daytrips to see the wonders of the North Rim. Off US Rt. 89 Alternative, and in the little community of Jacob Lake, this campground often fills with recreational vehicles.

●Fool Hollow Lake campground in the Sitgeavers National Forest was developed in partnership with the Forest Service, Arizona State Parks, Game and Fish, and the city of Show Low. It offers full hook-ups, some sites with only water and electric, and others with no hook-ups. Resort-like, it is close enough to town for a cook’s night out. The campground sits on the banks of the 149-acre Fool Hollow Lake and has a 0.75-mile family-friendly paved hiking trail.

ForestCamping.com, the U.S. National Forest Campground Guide, is a complete and comprehensive guide to developed campgrounds in national forests and grasslands. Fred and Suzi Dow, its authors and publishers, have devoted 17 years to visiting, personally researching, and providing the public with free, detailed information about 175 national forests and grasslands and over 2,400 personally surveyed campgrounds.

Lake Havasu City bustling with winter events and mid-70s temps

2012-02-01T11:40:00.000-08:00

Winterfest at Lake Havasu City

Lake Havasu City is bustling with snowbirds at this time of year. The campgrounds and RV resorts are full, non-RVing snowbirds have moved into their condos and houses for the winter, and events are in full swing.

One event to mark on your calendar is the 27th Annual Winterfest put on by the Lake Havasu Chamber of Commerce. This year over 40,000 are expected to attend Winterfest to enjoy the daytime temps of 70 to 75 degrees and to visit over 400 booths including more than 200 vendors from around the country.

Vendors display homemade clothing, arts and crafts, jewelry, and fine art from some of the top artists and craftspeople in the West. You will also find booths for Arizona State Parks, service agencies, games for kids, food booths of all kinds, and several musical groups provide continuous entertainment.

Cruisin' On Main, Lake Havasu City

Winterfest takes place on Lake Havasu's main street, McCulloch Boulevard North, the weekend of February 11 -12 from 10 AM to 5 PM. There is plenty of free parking and admission is free also.

Otherpopular February events in Lake Havasu include: Cruisin' on Main every Thursday when hot rods and classic cars turn out to cruise along McCulloch, a swap meet every Sunday in the London Bridge Shopping Center - South parking lot, the 11th Annual Spring Frenzy at the aquatic center presents a week of classes and lectures beginning Feb. 6th, the 23rd Annual Winter Blast Western Pyrotechnics fireworks show at Sara Park on Feb. 16th, and more. You can find out more about these events and see all the events for Lake Havasu on the GoLakeHavasu website.

Make your RV resort reservations now, or stay at the no-reservations Lake Havasu State Park - Windsor Beach. Boondocking is available north of town near the airport in the BLM's Craggy Wash dispersed camping area and south of town in Standard Wash.

Arizona sees influx of snowbirds

2012-01-25T13:48:00.000-08:00

Arizona RV parks are reporting a snowbird incursion is underway. While some parks say their visitation rates are on a par with this time last year, others say they've seen an increase in RV traffic.

Trade group, Arizona Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds, spokesman, Jo Ann Mickelson says, "If anything, we see a little comeback in the economy. Even 1 or 2 percentage points is a little bit of a boost in the economy." Mesa Spirit Mesa Resort near Phoenix echoes Mickelson's view, reporting reservations are up 2 to 3 percent. Further south and west in Casa Grande, Palm Creek Golf & RV Resort reports a 3% increase in bookings.

Along the frontier, Yuma RV resorts are having a good winter. Rolle’s Lynda Vista RV Park park manager Ruth Conti crows, "“Things are busy. I haven’t had a cancellation in years.”

While no hard statistics are available, visual signs at the Snowbird Capital of the World, Quartzsite, seem to hold weight to similar thinking. One long-time Quartzsite watcher tells us, "I'm seeing RVs parked in spots they've never been before." Just driving through the area on Interstate 10 shows rigs stacked up nearly to the freeway fence, with RVers making mad dashes for vendor tents and shows.

And the trend may last. Mickelson, for her part, owns J and H RV Park in Flagstaff. But even though northern Arizona is in the midst of winter’s grip, she’s already receiving reservations for the coming summer. "I’m having lots of reservations and inquiries coming in every day now," she said. "That’s a good sign. That’s what we want. I feel people are thinking about what they want to do, whether it’s for the winter months or the summer."

stock photo, R&T DeMaris

Tonto National Forest opens proposed travel management plan for public comment

2012-01-21T09:58:00.000-08:00

If you're a frequent visitor to and camper in the Tonto National Forest you might want to know that the forest is on the verge of accepting its travel management plan that will govern how you may use the forest in the future.

The plan will determine which of the forest's roads you can drive on, which roads will close, and where you can camp/boondock. The following is a notification from the Blue Ribbon Coalition.

The Forest Service has announced the release the Travel Management Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Tonto National Forest for public review and comment. A 30-day public comment period began on January 6, 2012. Comments will be accepted through February 5, 2012. The action is a proposed system of roads, trails and areas. Based on previous public input, several alternatives are proposed in this draft Environmental Assessment. The final product will be a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that shows which roads and trails will be open to motor vehicle use. The decision will also amend the Tonto National Forest Plan.

If you want a say in how the forest will be used, now is your chance to let the Forest Service know. If you don't respond, you may or may not get what you like, but your opportunity for input will be gone. Go to the Blue Ribbon Coalition's notification page for further information and links to post your opinions.

Encore RV Resorts getting ready for spring training baseball fans

2012-01-19T14:38:00.000-08:00

Every spring, 15 major league baseball teams arrive in Arizona for the Cactus League spring training season to prep for the upcoming MLB season. Beginning March 2, baseball fans visiting spring training from around the U.S. can benefit from nearby Encore RV Resorts for accommodations.

While the area offers an assortment of activities, spring training is atop Arizona visitor's must-see lists this time of year. Whether attending games or team practices, fans experience an atmosphere with fewer barriers between spectators and players with daily games scheduled at centrally located stadiums. For more information on the Cactus League and the spring training schedule visit www.CactusLeague.com.

RV travelers who want the best in resort-style amenities can choose from 19 different Encore RV Resorts locations across Arizona. Each offers unique amenities and activities, such as swimming pools, spas, fitness centers, lounges, sports courts, organized activities, Wi-Fi access and more.

To book a visit to any of these premier Encore RV Resorts in the Arizona area, call (866) 730-0637.

•Araby Acres RV Resort, 6649 E. 32nd St., Yuma, AZ 85365
•Cactus Gardens RV Resort, 10657 South Ave. 9-E, Yuma, AZ 85365
•Capri RV Resort, 3380 S. 4th Ave., Yuma, AZ 85365
•Casita Verde RV Resort, 2200 N. Trekell Road, Casa Grande, AZ 85122
•Countryside RV Resort, 2701 S. Idaho Road, Apache Junction, AZ 85219
•Desert Paradise RV Resort, 10537 South Ave., 9E, Yuma, AZ 85365
•Desert Vista RV Resort , 64812 Harcuvar Dr., Salome, AZ 85348
•Fiesta Grande RV Resort, 1511 E. Florence Blvd., Casa Grande, AZ 85122
•Foothill Village RV Resort 12705 E. South Frontage Road, Yuma, AZ 85367
•Foothills West RV Resort, 10167 N. Encore Drive, Casa Grande, AZ 85222
•Golden Sun RV Resort, 999 W. Broadway Ave., Apache Junction, AZ 85120
•Mesa Verde RV Resort, 3649 S. 4th Ave., Yuma, AZ 85365
•Monte Vista RV Resort, 8865 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa, AZ 85209
•Paradise RV Resort, 10950 W. Union Hill Dr., Sun City, AZ 85373
•Suni Sands RV Resort, 1960 E. 32nd St., Yuma, AZ 85365
•Valley Vista RV Resort, 1060 S. Highway 80, Benson, AZ 85602
•Venture In RV Resort, 270 N. Clark Road, Show Low, AZ 85901
•ViewPoint RV & Golf Resort 8700 E. University Dr., Mesa, AZ 85207
•Voyager RV Resort, 8701 S. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85756

Lake Havasu site for new upscale resort

2012-01-18T08:26:00.000-08:00

There's more to Arizona's Lake Havasu City than the London Bridge. Jerry Aldridge wants motorcoach owners think of the city as their own resort. Aldridge, who founded RV rescue service Coach Net, is banking on his latest RV invention: The Refuge Luxury Motorcoach Resort.

Tucked in between Lake Havasu City's north end and a national wildlife refuge, the new resort sits proudly on the grounds of The Refuge Golf & Country Club. Yes, this is an 18-hole course with some of the greenest grass in the area. The resort intends to capitalize on the "country club" theme and bring in high-end motorcoach owners to populate the planned 107 site resort.

The golf course is in place, and added to it the pool, fitness center, pro shop, spa rooms, restaurant, lounge, piano bar, Et Cetera. You get the picture. The physical trappings are in place, the less physical will come when the resort opens this fall. Imagine high-brow resort goings-on: Wine tastings, golf tournaments and clinics, casino tours, dances. Add the more common RV park dos: Crafting, karaoke, game nights.

While a few months remain before the opening, Aldridge is counting on winter visitors to come and get the feel of his new venture. "Motorcoach owners who enjoy golf and the country club lifestyle are invited to come now to tour the facility, play a round of golf using our Member-for-a-Day package and preview the Club's amenities," says a company news release.

Check it out on the web at refugecountryclub.com or call (928) 754-1404.

Big names perform in Phoenix small venues

2012-01-11T11:04:00.001-08:00

Ah, Arizona winters. Sunshine. Saguaro cactus. Rich Little. Marie Osmond.

Once again, the Cal-Am resorts of Arizona are bringing in the acts that made Las Vegas famous. With nine resorts in the Phoenix valley, Cal-Am has to do more than just put out a bit of tarmac for parking the RV on. The also have to put on a show.

During the heavy tour season, Cal-Am rolls out the carpet for the shows that many of their resort guests clamor for. Well, most of the shows. "People want Tony Bennett," says Starr Davis with a sigh. Davis is Cal-Am's booking agent, responsible for bringing in entertainment. "Well, it's a quarter of a million to bring Tony Bennett and he won't do two shows in one day. It's just not going to work."

Never mind the lack of Tony, resort goers seem to be happy with the likes of Wayne Newton, Crystal Gayle, B.J. Thomas, Tanya Tucker, Ricky Skaggs, the Smothers Brothers and the Oak Ridge Boys, all of whom Cal-Am has rounded up for past concerts. Davis doesn't have a crystal ball to divine who Cal-Am should try and get--it's a bit more down to earth. Eyeballing what acts are popular in other snowbird venues, who sells out a house in Branson, Missouri, and who the Valley of the Sun folks ask for by name.

When they sign, the touring stars agree to a daily double. An early show for those who go to bed with the chickens, and a later show for the owls. The prices for shows are keeping in range with many who live on a budget. You can see Marie Osmond at a Cal-Am show for $30 to $50--try that in Vegas. The concert venue is a bit different than in the bigger show towns. Here concert goes hunker down in folding chairs in a smaller setting--probably less than 1,200 folks will take in a show--not for lack of sales--it's just the settings are smaller.

You might wonder if the talents are put off by performing at an "RV park." So far it hasn't been a problem. Of course, Cal-Am's resorts are a far cry from any taint of "trailer trash." Swimming pools, tennis courts, computer labs--Cal-Am looks to provide up-scale amenities in well manicured grounds. Not every show at Cal-Am is a big name--at least not in person. Many of the resort's favorite shows are "tribute" acts and impersonators.

Check out this year's concert schedule here. Beware, tickets to Cal-Am shows are offered first to Cal-Am guests; the general public gets a crack at them after everybody else.

State park fees: Good news, bad news. RVers could take hit.

2012-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

It's a good news/bad news scenario. Arizona State Park officials are floating possible fee changes for 2012. The good news is for folks who use special facilities, things like ramadas, cabanas, and boat-in sites. For the rest of us, principally RVers, the bad news--and the increased number of bucks--start.

By press release, the Parks board says charges for specific uses such as booking ramadas, group day use, group camping, cabanas, and boat-in sites. Facility use fee ranges would be reduced to a minimum fee of $15 from $25. That's a nice $10 drop. On the other and, watch out campers! Ranges in fees for non-electric camping would be increased to $15-25, electric $25-50. Whoa there, pardner! I know RVers who cringe at the thought of paying $50 in an upscale RV resort.

A little more deviling comes to get there to start with. Per-person entrance fees could have an "upper limit" of $10, with the minimum of $2 a head.

Got a comment on the fee changes? You have until January 13 to bit your two-bits in electronically. After that, the Park Boards meets in February, takes the last of the comments in person, makes their big decision, and the new fee changes roll into place on April 1. To make a comment on-line by January 13, go to http://azstateparks.com/board/comments.html.

Start the New Year off right with a guided hike at an Arizona State Park

2011-12-27T15:47:00.000-08:00

For the first time ever all 50 states have collaborated on a single, nationwide state parks event occurring on the same day! The First Day Hikes program! Regular Day Use Entrance Fee applies at each park, however, there is no additional fee for the hike program.

As a part of this program, the AZ State Parks listed below will offer guided hikes on January 1. So get out and hike!

Alamo Lake SP: 10 am. Meet at Ranger Station/Store. Moderate hike for ages 10 and up. No dogs allowed. 3/4 mile. Bring water, appropriate boots, seasonal clothing, sunscreen, and binoculars.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum SP: 11 am. Plants, animals, and history hike. Meet at Visitor Center. All ages. Leashed dogs allowed. Dress in layers, bring water bottle, hat, binoculars and camera.

Buckskin Mountain SP: 10 am. Meet at Buckskin Center. Moderate difficulty. Any age. No pets, except for service dogs. Length of trail 1.5 miles. Bring hiking shoes and water.

Catalina SP: 9 am. Meet at picnic area ramada. No dogs. Take a bird hike over mostly flat terrain. Will last 2 to 2.5 hours. Usually see 20-30 bird species. Bring water, snacks, binoculars, and bird books.

Cattail Cove SP: 10 am. Camp Hosts Bill & Betty Noble will lead a 3 mile hike. Park features include a view of the California Water Project's "soda straws". Wear comfortable shoes. Bring water. A camera and walking stick are recommended.

Dead Horse Ranch SP: 9 am. Meet at West Lagoon parking lot. It will last approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours and cover 2 to 3 miles. Hikers will meander along the Verde River riparian area as well as the 3 lagoons that are on the park. Dress in warm layers, wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Participants may also want to bring binoculars and a camera; the day might be good for wildlife photo ops. Ranger Margie will be leading the hike.

Lake Havasu SP: 10 am. Meet at trailhead near large main launch ramp. Enjoy an interpretive and viewing hike led by Assistant Park Manager Myke Steighler. 1-2 miles. Bring water, supportive shoes, hat, and binoculars.

Kartchner Caverns SP: 10:30 am. Hike led by Michael Woods, Park Ranger I and Archaeologist, and will include a history of past mining operations on adjacent national forest land. The hike will follow the Guindani Trail and will be about an 1.5 hours long. Hikers will be transported to the trailhead by a park multi-passenger vehicle. Water and restrooms are available at the trailhead. No dogs allowed. Limited to 25 participants. Contact Art at (520) 586-4115 to reserve your space. $6 day use entrance fee applies.

Lost Dutchman SP: 9 am. Meet at Saguaro day-use area. Join us for a ranger led hike on Treasure Loop Trail. Learn about desert flora and fauna and the history of Superstition Mountains and the Lost Dutchman Mine. This is a moderate hike with an elevation gain of 500 feet, 2.5 miles round trip, 2 hours. Carry water, dress in warm layers and wear sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots. In case of rain, hike will be cancelled.

Picacho Peak SP: 10 am. Meet at Sunset Vista Trail Head for an approximately 4 mile Ranger lead hike. The hike will be a moderate hike on the backside of Picacho Peak. Bring hiking boots, sun protection, and at least 1 liter of water.

Red Rock SP: 10 am and 2 pm. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. Enjoy a 1-1.5 hour interpretive naturalist-led hike. Bring water, good shoes, hat, and dress appropriately.

Roper Lake SP: 10 am. Meet at gatehouse. Minimum age 7. Length of hike 2.25 miles. Bring sturdy shoes, binoculars, water, layered clothing, and camera.

Tonto Natural Bridge SP: 11 am. Meet at bridge parking area. Moderate hike .6 miles of the Gowan Trail observation deck. Minimum age 7 years old. Bring water, winter gear. Hike will continue for those want to go through the bridge and return via Anna Mae Trail. Note: Weather conditions in Jan. may be extreme. Hike may be canceled due to snow, ice, high creek flow, etc. Check the park website for current info.

Arizona State Parks proposes to raise camping fees. . . by a lot

2011-12-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

It's likely that you will soon pay a lot more to camp in an Arizona State Park. Fees for a primitive campsite would raise from $15 to $25. Sites with electric hookups would go from $25 to $50 and day-use entrance fees would range from two to 10 dollars. Parks with per-person entrance fee ranges would have the upper limits changed to $10 to allow for seasonal and promotional fee increases by State Parks partner organizations.

Standard Annual Passes (day-use only) would be valid from November 1 to March 31 on holidays and weekends at the Colorado River Parks which would allow for more days of use for that pass.

Public comments will be accepted online until Jan. 13, 2012 at AZStateParks.com. The comments will be presented to the Arizona State Parks Board at its February, 2012 meeting. If the new fees are approved, the fee changes would take effect April 1, 2012.

Prescott honored as first place "True Western Town"

2011-12-21T10:08:00.000-08:00

Looking for a uniquely (and genuine) western town? Then point 'Old Paint' toward Prescott, pardner. True West magazine says Prescott, Arizona is their Number One choice for this year's Top Ten True Western Towns.

While incorporation for the little Arizona town didn't happen until 1883, real estate was hot there (in more ways than one) clear back in 1864. In short order it became the Territorial capital, twice. At one point the capital was moved to Tuscon, but Prescott got it back, and lost it--evidently for the last time, when Phoenix claimed the honors.

But Territorial capitals aren't what the west was made of. Prescott's claims to fame include Native Americans, miners, hookers, ranchers and cowboys, and all the support that underpinned the old west. Much of this history is recalled in town museums like the Sharlot Hall Museum that revives the territorial past, and the Phippen and Smoki museums which focus on local artifacts.

But a stroll down Whiskey Row preserves a much larger bit of history in the form of historic buildings like Arizona's oldest bar and restaurant, The Palace. Plenty of other old-timey buildings house galleries, bookstores, boutiques, and the like. Of course, they didn't get there easily: Like a lot of other western towns, Prescott was tried by fire, literally, on several occasions. The result was that much of the downtown core was rebuilt with brick.

Prescott hosts annual events such as Frontier Days, The World's Oldest Rodeo (1888), Easter Egg-Stravaganza, the Bluegrass Festival, Earth Day, July 4 Celebration, Tsunami on the Square, art festivals, a Cinco de Mayo celebration, Navajo Rug Auction, Pumpkin Patch Carnival, World’s Largest Gingerbread Village (actually on the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe reservation), Prescott Film Festival, Folk Arts Fair, parades, the Acker Music Festival, The Cowboy Poets Gathering, the Prescott Highland Games, Courthouse Lighting, Whiskey Off Road and Ragnar Relay Del Sol.

photo: ariztravel on flickr.com

Southwest critter visitors

2011-11-23T08:34:00.000-08:00

Some new to snowbirding can find the creatures of the Southwest's deserts a puzzlement. While they may look cute, even warm and fuzzy, having coyotes and javalinas hanging around your rig can lead to danger--particularly for pets. Here are a few tips on wildlife.

Coyotes:

Coyotes are common in rural and urban areas throughout Arizona. Coyotes tend to travel and hunt alone or in pairs, but they can form groups where food is abundant.

What Attracts Them?

Coyotes may visit a home if they find food, water, or shelter there.
Food can include unattended pets, birds or rodents attracted to bird feeders, pet food, garbage, or fallen fruit.
Water sources can include a pet's water bowl or a swimming pool.
Shelter can include a storm drain or any cave-like area beneath a shed or unused building.

What Should I Do?
If you see a coyote near your home, don't ignore it. This may cause it to lose its natural fear of people, which can eventually lead to aggressive behavior.

To discourage a coyote, immediately:

Make loud noises.
Shout and bang pots and pans or rattle empty soda cans with pebbles in it (coyote shaker).
Wave your hands or objects like sticks and brooms.
Throw small stones or cans.
Spray the coyote with a hose.
Use a commercial repellent like Mace, if necessary, on bold animals that refuse to leave.

Javelina:

Though some people think javelina are a type of wild pig, they are actually members of the peccary family, a group of hoofed mammals originating from South America. Javelinas are common in much of central and southern Arizona, including the outskirts of the Phoenix area, most of Tucson, and occasionally as far north as Flagstaff. Javelina form herds of two to more than 20 animals and rely on each other to defend territory, protect against predators, regulate temperature and interact socially. They use washes and areas with dense vegetation as travel corridors. Javelina are most active at night, but they may be active during the day when it is cold.

What Attracts Them?

Javelinas usually visit homes to find food, water or shelter.
Food for javelina can include lush vegetation and many flowers and succulent plants that people place around their homes. Birdseed, table scraps and garbage can also attract javelina.
Water can be provided through chewing on irrigation hose or by drinking from a pool or other water source around a home. Javelina will also dig and roll in moist soil during summer days to keep cool.
Shelter can take the form of a porch, an area under a mobile home, a crawlspace beneath a house, or any other cave-like area. Javelina will seek shade during summer days and warmth during the winter, if these areas are not properly secured.

What Should I Do?
If javelina have become a problem or have caused property damage, see the suggestions below to deal with the situation. Do your part to keep javelina healthy and wild because their removal almost always means death. Work with your neighbors to achieve a consistent solution to the problem.

To discourage a javelina, immediately:

Scare off animals by making loud noises (bang pots, yell, stomp on the floor, etc.); throwing small rocks in their direction; or spraying with vinegar, water from a garden hose, or large squirt gun filled with diluted household ammonia (1 part ammonia and 9 parts water). The odor of the ammonia and the nasal irritation it causes will encourage the javelina to leave. Avoid spraying ammonia in the eyes as it may cause damage even at this low concentration. Ammonia should not be used around wetlands because it is toxic to fish and amphibians.
If the animal is confined, open a gate, have all people leave the area, and allow it to leave on its own. If it is still there the following day, contact a wildlife control business or the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
If you see javelina while walking your dog, avoid going near the javelina and quickly take your dog in a different direction.

photos: coyote--R&T DeMaris; javalina--tequilamike on flickr.com

Observe the heavens Nov. 19 at Alamo State Park

2011-11-11T08:28:00.000-08:00

Alamo Lake State Park will host its "5th Annual Night Under the Stars" astronomy program on the night of the new moon on Saturday, Nov. 19. Because Alamo Lake State Park is 30 miles from the nearest small town, the park's dark skies offer some of Arizona's best unaided views of celestial objects like the Andromeda Galaxy and the Triangulum Galaxy. Activities begin at noon and continue throughout the day and evening.

Terrestial objects that are not easily seen from within the city are easy binocular targets when viewed from Alamo Lake State Park due to the dark environment. Moons, planets, galaxies, star clusters and nebula will fill up the eyepiece when seen through the telescopes set up for visitors that night. Astronomy clubs and amateur astronomers from around the state provide the telescopes to allow visitors to explore the night sky.

If you attend, bring a red flashlight and comfort items such as folding chairs, warm clothes, bottled water and snacks. The park has camping, fishing and ramadas available for RVers and tents. Primitive camping sites are offered to participating astronomy clubs and individuals who bring a telescope to the Star Party to share with visitors.

The Park Entrance fee is $7 (up to four adults) per vehicle. Primitive and full hookup camping sites are available at a fee of $13 to $25 per night depending on the type of camping site needed. Alamo Lake State Park is located 38 miles north of Wenden and US 60. Wenden is two hours west of Phoenix north of I-10. Alamo Lake State Park offers hiking, OHV trails, birdwatching, bass fishing, and is one of Arizona's largest lakes. Learn more at the Alamo State Park website. Campground reservations can now be made online.

Three thousand miles of roads to be closed in Coconino NF

2011-11-05T13:51:00.000-07:00

Most RVers have already pulled out of the Coconino National Forest near Flagstaff. At elevations over 7,000 feet where temperatures have dropped into the teens at night and only rise to the mid 30s in daytime, those who can have started their trip to warmer southern climates. Those stuck close to home have probably parked their RV for the season.

But when the snowbirds return and when the locals awaken their rigs from winter hibernation, they will find that nearly 3,000 miles of forest roads have been closed and motorized camping is restricted from nearly 1.5 million acres to 43,000 acres along 581 miles of roads in the Coconino NF.

The decision on the changes to be made to the Travel Management Plan (TMP) was announced on Thursday, November 3rd by the Forest Service and started the clock ticking on a 45-day comment period--so if you have anything to say about the closures, don't wait until you head out in the Spring for your favorite boondocking campsite only to find it closed.

In other changes made to the TMP on the November 3rd announcement, the original version allowed dispersed camping within 100 feet of any open road but was extended to within 300 feet of both sides of just 581 miles of designated road, and one side only of 32 miles of road. With the new rule, campers and day-users will also be allowed to park and/or camp along any open road, so long as they are parked within 30 feet of the roadway.

"We changed what we were going to do after going out and collecting data on over 4,000 dispersed campsites and then tried targeting our dispersed camping corridors to where they were at and where they would cause the least impact to sensitive resources," said Mike Dechter, spokesman for the forest, according to the Verde Independent that reported on the decision.

A map and a complete copy of the decision are posted on the Coconino National Forest Website. Dechter also said that the forest will be publishing an app for smart phones, where RVers can see exactly where they are on the map so they can make accurate decisions on where they can drive and where they can boondock. The Coconino NF will be the first forest in the nation to publish such an app.

Police need help identiying man found at Beaver Creek

2011-11-03T09:58:00.000-07:00

A man's body found at Arizona's Beaver Creek Campground has authorities looking for help with identification. The popular campground is on Interstate 17 at its junction with Arizona Highway 179, about 10 miles north of Camp Verde. On August 30, hikers found the man's body, described as being a white male, aged 35 to 45 years, 6' 1" tall, weighing 252 pounds. The man is bald, and wore a goatee.

Officials say the man's first name is Phillip, possibly haling from Florida or New Mexico. He caught a cab from the Flagstaff, Arizona train station to the campground, with one stop made at Weber's IGA store at Oak Creek. When found he was wearing two shirts, one tie-dyed, the other bearing the phrase, "Widespread Panic."

The medical examiner says the man died of heart disease.

If you have any information that may shed light on the case, police ask you call the Yavapai County Sheriff's office at (928) 771-3260.

Game & Fish to stock lakes and streams for winter trout fishing

2011-10-27T15:54:00.000-07:00

Just because you may be heading south soon for the winter to the Southwest, don't leave your trout fishing gear behind in a closet. Arizona Game & Fish has already stocked and will soon be stocking many more locations, from mid-elevation habitats to metropolitan areas.

The Prescott area and streams flowing into the Verde Valley have already been stocked with trout and as the chilly November nights arrive southern Arizona lakes will see stocked trout also.

The canyons, too, like Willow Beach in Black Canyon below Hoover Dam and Topock Gorge at the north end of Lake Havasu will again be good spots to catch fat rainbows. Even Casino Row in the Laughlin-Bullhead area will see stockings.

Wherever you spend the Arizona snowbird season you will likely be near a great fishing hole. Go to the Game & Fish website for a complete list of the winter trout stocking schedule.

Fall season opens at Patagonia Lake and Sonoita Creek

2011-10-18T15:51:00.000-07:00

Patagonia Lake SP

Fall camping season kicks off on Saturday, October 15th at Patagonia Lake State Park and Sonoita Creek State Natural Area when the visitor center will again be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 AM to 4:30 PM.

Displays of local plants, animals, and the great variety of birds that the area is known for are featured at The Sonoita Creek Visitor Center. This natural area is a transitional zone between the Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts, and within a small area you can see seven distinct vegetative communities from riparian forest to desert grassland.

Sonoita Creek State Natural Area

Nature walks will also begin on October 22nd at 9 AM on Saturdays. Fall is an especially good time for birdwatchers as the fall migration is in full swing. Bird walks are conducted each Monday at 9 AM at the Birding trailhead at the east end of the campground.

A list of activities can be found on the park website and more activities will be added throughout the season.

You can make reservations at (520) 586-2283. Patagonia Lake resurfaced the camping pads this past summer and installed electricity and water to most sites. Non-electric sites are $17 and electric sites $25.

Visit Boyce Thompson Arboretum for the desert's Fall Foliage Festival

2011-10-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

The turning of the leaves draws leaf peepers from all over the country to the New England States each October.

But did you know that you can also see the turning of the leaves at Boyce Thompson Arboretum, an Arizona State park 55 miles east of Phoenix?

The leaves turn later in the desert than they do in New England, usually in November, and the peak time for the colorful Chinese pistachios, sycamores, and others comes around Thanksgiving.

The arboretum hosts a two-day Fall festival Thanksgiving weekend featuring live music, arts and crafts booths under the trees, and that typical New England treat, hot spiced cider to warm your innards as you wander the Arboretum's grounds and enjoy the scenery.

The festival takes place from 11 AM to 3 PM November 26-27 at the Arboretum, 37615 U.S. Highway 60, Superior. $9 adults, $4.50 kids ages 5 to 12, free for kids 4 and younger. Call (520) 689-2811 for more info. or go online to the Arboretum's website.

McMahon's RV opens permanent location in Mesa

2011-10-03T11:17:00.000-07:00

If you are among the snowbirds that consider replacing or upgrading your rig during the winter at temporary sales locations that spring up every winter in Yuma, Quartzsite, or other desert areas, you might want to include the new McMahon's RV that has opened a permanent sales location in Mesa, a popular snowbird location.

The new location (2260 E. Main Street, Mesa, AZ 852113, 480-835-2095), besides having a range of motorhomes from traditional gas engine models to luxury diesel pushers and a full service center, also has a cafeteria with professional landscaping to keep you relaxed, comfortable, and well fed during the buying process.

McMahon’s RV carries an extensive inventory of Class A, B, and C motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth-wheels. Their grand opening, which begtan September 23rd, will continue to the end of Novermber.

Boondockers and wildlife watchers take precautions during hunting season

2011-09-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

The Fall season is a good time for wildlife watchers. Most of the summer crowds are gone, campgrounds uncrowded, and birds and wildlife are active. This is also a time when wildlife watchers, boondockers, mountain bikers, and hikers need to be on alert and take some extra precautions because the deer hunting season is open from October through December.

It can be an unsettling time for many boondockers and recreational users in the national forests and on BLM land when they hear gun shots or encounter armed individuals while out enjoying nature.

Many boondockers just avoid the national forests during this season because of the prevalence of hunters, which is not always necessary, as some areas are closed to hunting at certain times and hunting seasons are very defined.

RVers using public lands in Fall can go online to the Arizona Game and Fish website to learn the actual dates of hunting seasons and camp elsewhere.

If you still want to camp in an active hunting area, do not act like a deer--wearing antlers on your head or a deerskin jacket, for example. You also might want to do what hunters do, and wear a bright orange hunter's vest and cap letting hunters know that you are not something to be shot at.

There are several locations around Arizona that are classified as Wildlife Watching Areas, which are either off limits to hunters or you can visit at times when hunting is barred. You can get specific information about these areas on the Game & Fish watchable wildlife page.

And remember that we share the forests. Hunters have as much right to be there as RVers and hikers, and if we RVers recognize that, we can all get along better.

Kaibab Lake campground rennovations a hit

2011-09-15T16:26:00.000-07:00

While Tusayan, Arizona may technically be the real gateway to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park, Williams likes to claim the honor. Fifty miles to the south, Williams sits on the Historic Route 66 and is home station of the Grand Canyon Scenic Railroad. Tourist trap that Williams may be, for a while there wasn't a satisfactory public campground nearby.

That's all over now. A couple of miles up the road to the South Rim, officials are preparing to wave the flags, fire up the barbies, and offer free hot dogs and burgers in celebration of the "Grand Opening" of Kaibab Lake Campground in the Kaibab National Forest. All that takes place Friday, September 16. Ah, but intrepid correspondents for RV Arizona have already beat the pomp and ceremony to report on the state of the campground.

Calling the celebration at "Grand Opening" is rather a misnomer, as Kaibab Lake has existed for some time. Still, the Forest Service folks have reason to be proud of their recently completed renovations. Facilities for RVers have been considerably upgraded at the campground, with neat paved sites, fire rings, tables, and brick outhouses built like--well--built like a brick outhouse. On our visit in early September we were happy to stay on at one of Kaibab Lake's upper loop sites. Evergreen trees shade but don't overwhelm with overhang throughout the grounds, and the occasionally disappearing (OK, "shrinking") lake is said to be home to eatable fish.

Our experience with the wildlife of the campground came more in the form of a guilt-producing bushy-tailed squirrel. After mistakenly allowing a garbage bag to sit unattended for a few minutes, the enterprising rodent broke open the cache and made off with a disposable bowl. Garbage properly dumped, the squirrel returned and sat a few feet outside our dining area window, giving us the accusing look of a disappointed pan handler. We'll be more cautious about our refuse from now on.

The reconstruction project includes 11 new sites on an all-new camping loop. All the loops are connected by hard surface, all weather roads, and the entry access road is likewise "non-muddy." Site fees are a reasonable $18 a night. Don't look for a dump station, and water, as in most places around Williams has to be hauled in, so treat it like liquid gold.

photos: R&T DeMaris

Arizona State Parks to remain open thanks to local communities and non-profit agencies

2011-09-14T13:26:00.000-07:00

With the continuing recession it seemed inevitable that not only would the padlocked Arizona state parks remain closed, but that more would close also. However, many local communities and non-profits haveteamed up to keep 14 of the state's most vulnerable parks open by providing more than $800,000 to eh Arizona State Parks Agency.

For instance, the Friends of Tonto Natural Bridge State Park and the towns of Payson and Star Valley are helping with $35,000 in funding to the park that bears their name. Earlier this week, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park returned to a five-day schedule after being open every day between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

The Tubac Historical Society is helping keep Tubac Presidio State Historic Park open by providing both funding and operational support, and Red Rock State Park in Sedona is being aided by Yavapai County and the Benefactors of Red Rock State Park.

Local authorities and non-profits say they decided to cast a financial lifeline to the more vulnerable parks because they recognize their value - their rich history, intense beauty and, perhaps most importantly, their economic impact.

Today, less than two years after major closures seemed certain, 26 of Arizona's 27 parks are open (only Oracle SP remains closed), although many have abbreviated schedules. Some, such as Picacho Peak and Lyman Lake state parks, are on seasonal calendars. Others, such as Jerome State Historic Park and Fort Verde State Historic Park, are on five-day schedules. Still others switch between opening for seven days during their peak season and five days during their shoulder seasons.

"When the Legislature swept $8.6 million from Arizona State Parks' budget during a special session in December 2009, it was clear there would be widespread closures," reports the Arizona Republic. "Thirteen parks, including Tubac Presidio, were operating in the red. All were targeted for closure.

"Many parks have a substantial economic impact on their surrounding communities, even if they don't operate at a profit, State Parks officials say. Tubac Presidio (photo) supported four jobs and had a local economic impact of $256,377 in fiscal 2007, according to a study conducted by the Arizona Hospitality Research & Resource Center. Lake Havasu State Park, which consistently operates in the black, supported 484 jobs and had a $34.5 million economic impact.

"Cumulatively, the state parks had an economic impact of $266.4 million from July 2006 through June 2007, the study said. 'State Parks does have parks in its system that are fairly small and don't have the same appeal as some of the recreational parks,' said Thomas Combrink, senior research specialist at the center. 'It's just the nature of what they are.'"

For now the parks will stay open, which is important to both park visitors and the surrounding communities. But, these are short term solutions and are not sustainable. A long term plan is needed to guarantee the parks will be open next year and the next.

Forrest Service re-opens for camping in Apache-Sitgreaves following Wallowa fire

2011-08-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest officials reopened more areas this week that burned in this year's Wallow wildfire, the largest fire in Arizona's history. Open roads are marked with white arrow signs.

Many developed campgrounds in the fire area are open for use including Acre Lake, KP Cienega, and Stray Horse. Some areas will remain closed through at least the next several months including South Fork Campground.

All the developed recreation sites along the East Fork and West Fork of the Black River are also open.

Dispersed camping is allowed within 30 feet of any route designated as open with a white arrow, in areas designated as open. NOTE: This is part of the new Travel Management Plan and is a change from previous rules. Forest entry and dispersed camping farther than 30 feet from an open roadway is allowable by non-motorized means only, and only in areas designated as open on the map.

Throughout the coming weeks, visitors can expect that trails signed as open have been cleared of most hazards such as downed and falling trees.

All other trails in designated open areas have not been mitigated and pose a higher risk to users. Each visitor is responsible for his or her own safety. The Forest Service warns, before choosing a parking or camping spot, "Look Up, Look Down, and Look Around."

Falling trees, stump holes and flooding continue to exist throughout the forest.

Check here for additional roads and areas that are open, and for a copy of the closure order, a comprehensive list of roads, trails, and recreation sites, as well as maps indicating open and closed areas, visit the forest's website.

NOTE: Closure violations are punishable by a fine of as much as $5,000 for individuals and imprisonment for as long as six months, or both. This, too, is part of the new Travel Management Rules.

Lightning kills Colorado man camping in Arizona

2011-08-07T13:29:00.000-07:00

It used to be a cliche about something being as rare as "being struck by lightning." But surprisingly, there are several lightning strikes and deaths each year in the US.

Arizona averages 1.4 lightning deaths each year, having it's first of 2011 on July 12th when a Colorado high school teacher was killed while camping in Arizona. Nationwide there have been 15 lightning strike deaths this year.

To improve your odds, stay west of the Mississippi River since the majority of deaths happened east of the river. Be a female--11 of the 15 strikes were male. And avoid Florida, the number one state for lightning deaths and known as the lightning capital of the world, with 461 recorded deaths since 1959. The corridor from Tampa to Orlando has one of the highest in the world density of lightning strikes per year.

The National Weather Service offers the following safety tips during electrical storms.

• NO PLACE outside is safe when thunderstorms are in the area!
• If you hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you.
• When you hear thunder, immediately move to safe shelter.
• Safe shelter is a substantial building or inside an enclosed, metal-topped vehicle.
• Stay in safe shelter at least 30 minutes after you hear the last clap of thunder.

Indoor Lightning Safety Tips
• Stay off corded phones, computers and other electrical equipment that put
you in direct contact with electricity.
• Avoid plumbing, including sinks, baths, and faucets.
• Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
• Do not lie on concrete floors, and do not lean against concrete walls.

Last Resort Outdoor Risk Reduction Tips
If you are caught outside with no safe shelter anywhere nearby the following actions may reduce your risk:
• Immediately get off elevated areas such as hills, mountain ridges, or peaks
• NEVER lie flat on the ground
• NEVER use a tree for shelter
• NEVER use a cliff or rocky overhang for shelter
• Immediately get out and away from ponds, lakes and other bodies of water
• Stay away from objects that conduct electricity (barbed wire fences, power lines, windmills, etc.)
• UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should ANY of the above actions be taken if a building or an all-metal vehicle is nearby

If Someone Is Struck
• Victims DO NOT carry an electrical charge and may need immediate medical attention.
• Monitor the victim and begin CPR or AED, if necessary.
• Call 911 for help.

Coronado National Forest, Mount Lemmon reopen

2011-07-14T12:54:00.000-07:00

After nearly a month of closure due to high fire danger, the Coronado National Forest is "open for business" once again. All campgrounds and hiking trails are open to the public. It's a big relief for a lot of the locals, Tucson residents have been roasting in high temperatures, and a visit to Mount Lemmon (at it's elevated location) has been a big relief.

Don't get too crazy, though. The fire danger is listed as "High," which means no campfires, no barbeques, no open flames. If you haven't been able to give up the smoking evil, you can smoke--but only INSIDE your vehicle.

Last weekend campgrounds throughout the forest saw a brisk business.

US Government photo

Be aware of fire laws on Arizona public lands

2011-06-29T17:38:00.000-07:00

The following fire restrictions are in effect for BLM public lands in Arizona:

Open campfires, charcoal grills, and stove fires
Campfires and charcoal grills are only permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed on public lands provided such devices meet the fire underwriter’s specifications for safety.

Smoking
Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle and on a paved or surface road within a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

Other
Use of fireworks, flares or other incendiary devices are prohibited.

Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement is prohibited.

For additional information on current fire restrictions, please call 1-877-864-6985 or visit Wildlandfire.az.gov.

Coronado National Forest to close due to extreme dry fire conditions

2011-06-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hikers, campers, bird-watchers, and others who love outdoor recreation will be barred indefinitely from one of their most prized preserves, the Coronado National Forest. The entire two million-acre forest will be closed at noon Thursday because of extreme fire danger.

"The closure will remain in effect until significant moisture arrives," said Jim Upchurch, supervisor of the forest encompassing mountain ranges across Southern Arizona. "We recognize the impact this closure will have, but these are unprecedented fire conditions."

The closure includes popular Sabino Canyon (photo) northeast of Tucson. The only exception is the Catalina Highway to Summerhaven in the Catalina Mountains north of Tucson which will remain open to residents, business operators, and the public during daylight hours. But no stops may be made at overlooks, trails or other sites along the way to Summerhaven. The road will be closed at night.

Violators could face fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment of up to six months, or both, said Heidi Schewel, a spokeswoman for the forest. Parts of Saguaro National Park also will be closed starting Thursday, park Superintendent Darla Sidles said.

She said all high-country trails and sites in the park's district east of Tucson will be closed, but the eight-mile-loop drive in the district will remain open. The district of the park west of Tucson is in desert mountain terrain and will remain open, Sidles said.

Town of Buckeye to transform 8700 acres of Arizona desert lands into a camping hub

2011-06-14T13:18:00.000-07:00

Buckeye is leasing land from the Bureau of Land Management to transform the desert land into a camping hub complete with picnic areas, campgrounds, and hiking and equestrian trails reports the Tucson Citizen.

The town has signed a lease agreement with the BLM to develop 8,675 acres in the far West Valley into a regional park over the next 25 years. Buckeye plans to annex the land and begin constructing access roads to develop what for now is being called Buckeye White Tank Regional Park.

After 25 years, if BLM officials are satisfied with what Buckeye has done with property, they will transfer ownership to Buckeye. Buckeye leased the land at no cost under the federal Recreation and Public Purposes Act, enacted by Congress in 1954.

“It is a rather large acquisition, but the parcel was isolated from other blocks of public land. We had no interest in that land,” said Jim Andersen, a land-realty specialist for the BLM.

Under the plan, the entrance to Buckeye White Tank Regional Park will be at the end of Watson Road, about 2 miles north of Interstate 10 and south of Maricopa County’s White Tank Mountain Regional Park (photo) that the land borders and which is already popular for scenic desert hiking, campgrounds, and wildlife.

Buckeye officials hope to partner with the county and create trails that will interweave with existing trails at the White Tank Mountains.

Firefighters battle Arizona's second largest wildfire in history

2011-06-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

The massive and out of control wildfire in the Ponderosa pine forests of Northeastern Arizona has now burned over 600 square miles.

Residents are fleeing several small Arizona mountain towns, as cars, trucks and trailers loaded with belongings streamed out of Eagar, flames dotted a ridge on the southeastern side of Springerville, and columns of orange smoke rose from the hills.

Ash rained from a sky filled with thick smoke that has affected air quality as far north as Wyoming and as far east as Georgia.

This is the second largest wildfire in Arizona's history, and authorities are already looking into the cause. Several forest service campgrounds are dotted throughout the area, and some reports said the fire started from an "unattended campfire". If this turns out to be true, what a devastating result from a camper's negligence.

As we enter the summer camping season, it cannot be stressed enough the importance of campers and RVers taking extra care to guarantee without a doubt that their fires are absolutely cold, dead, out. Carry a water bucket and shovel in your rig to use if an errant spark gets loose from your fire, and when you leave, pour water on the fire.

But that's not enough. Spread out the coals and feel with your hand that they--all of them--are cold to the touch. Then bury the fire with dirt. Don't leave even the slightest possibility of a sudden wind raising the smallest of hot spots into a fiery conflagration. And don't even consider building a campfire if weather predictions call for high winds. The cost of a simple, unintended mistake, can be too high to contemplate.

Fire damages Mittry Lake and Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Area

2011-05-25T16:44:00.000-07:00

Many of us have boondocked at Mittry Lake east of Yuma at the Betty's Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Area, enjoying waterfront campsites surrounded by rushes and willows. If you had a paddle boat, canoe or kayak, you could paddle out from your campsite into a great birdwatching area among the tulles and low wetlands of the lower Colorado River.

That has now changed as the Laguna Fire has burned between 400 to 800 acres of vegetation along the Colorado River in the Betty's Kitchen area. The BLM reports that the fire was man caused, however the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The fire, which began at about 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25th, is burning salt cedar, willow, cottonwood and mesquite in the Colorado River riparian area. The fire started in California and hopped the river into Arizona. Approximately 95 percent of the fire is in Arizona.

The fire has destroyed a historic abandoned cabin known as “Pappin House” and portions of Betty’s Kitchen Watchable Wildlife Area and Interpretive Trail near Laguna Dam.

A large sign at Betty’s Kitchen, a ramada, a wooden footbridge, some vegetation and a BLM water truck were burned during the wildfire.

A second ramada and bathrooms at the location were spared. Much of the foliage will grow back, but it remains to be seen how much the fire will affect this not-well-known boondocking camping area.

Yuma and Lake Havasu City BLM districts restrict campfires

2011-05-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

The abundant rain this winter has resulted in a green and verdant desert. However, as the days get warmer the vegetation dries out, and because there is so much vegetation, it becomes a fire hazard. This year has already seen disastrous wildfires.

The Horseshoe Two wildfire is right now burning more than 26,500 acres in southeastern Arizona and is only 20 percent contained. About 600 firefighters are attempting to get the fire out threatening the community of Portal in the Chiracahua mountains, an area internationally known for its excellent birding. The fire is strong enough to back into the wind and make short uphill runs, with flames from 2 to 15 feet.

In another area, the BLM has issued fire restrictions on 2.5 million acres of public land in the Yuma and Lake Havasu districts, and along the Colorado River on the California side.

The BLM says that there are not plans to close any of the areas, they want to make clear that the following acts are prohibited:

• Open campfires, charcoal grills and stove fires. Campfires and charcoal grills are only permitted in developed recreation sites or improved sites, where agency-built fire rings or grills are provided. The use of petroleum-fueled stoves, lanterns, or heating devices is allowed on public lands provided such devices meet the fire underwriter's specifications for safety.

• Smoking is restricted to enclosed buildings, within a vehicle, and on a paved or surface road, within a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least six feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable material.

• Use of fireworks, flares, or other incendiary devices.

• Welding or the use of any torch or metal cutting implement.

Violations of these restrictions are punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment of not more than 12 months.

Imperial, Cibola, Bill Williams, and Havasu National Wildlife Refuges continue to enforce year round fire restrictions.

For more information on fire restrictions, call 1-877-864-6985, or visit www.publiclands.org/firenews.

Forest Service in Arizona bans campfires

2011-05-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

The Forest Service in Arizona said that increasing fire danger has made campfires outside of campgrounds will be banned on the Coconino National Forest beginning today.

The Kaibab National Forest also will implement Stage 1 fire restrictions (see definition of Fire Restrictions below) on the Williams and Tusayan ranger districts also today. These restrictions will likely stay in place until the Summer monsoons begin.

Fire Restrictions four stages defined
Stage 1 restrictions ban fires, campfires, charcoal, coal, or wood stoves outside of developed campgrounds. Smoking is limited to within enclosed vehicles or buildings or in developed campgrounds. Pressurized liquid or gas stoves, lanterns, and heaters meeting safety specifications will continue to be allowed.

Stage 2 restrictions include prohibiting campfires and other fires in developed campgrounds, as well as prohibiting motorized vehicle and chainsaw use.

Stage 3 restrictions include shutting off sections of the forest.

Stage 4 restrictions are wider closures, where an entire forest could be closed.

National Weather Service issues red flag warning for all Arizona forests

2011-05-04T12:50:00.000-07:00

The National Weather Service has issued the first red-flag warning for most of Arizona on Wednesday, May 4. US Forest Service officials asked campers not to use campfires on any of Arizona's national forests.

A red flag warning means that any wildfire has a strong potential for extreme growth because of high winds and low relative humidity.

Although this is the first red flag day of the year, Central Yavapai Fire District personnel already have had to put out two wildfires caused by people using burn permits where tumbleweeds turned into rolling balls of fire in windy areas north of Prescott Valley earlier this month, CYFD Fire Marshal Charlie Cook said.

Rainfall measuring sites on the Prescott National Forest are averaging only about half of their usual precip, unlike many other parts of the country where floods and tornadoes rage. Winter precipitation in Prescott was below average, and April is so far below average.

Campers in the national forests should also be extra alert for burnable material close to campfires even on non-red alert days.

Pay attention to laws, customs when visiting Arizona's tribal lands

2011-04-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

Each of Arizona's 22 Native American Reservations operates under its own unique governmental structure and establishes its own rules for visitors. Visitors should not assume that what applies in one Tribal community is the general rule for all Tribal communities. Please observe all Tribal laws and regulations. For specific information, it's recommended that you contact the individual tribe(s) before your visit.

Basic Guidelines
Taking photos, video and audio recordings, as well as sketching, is a particularly sensitive issue. Permits may be required, and fees and restrictions vary, particularly for professionals. Therefore, it is important to contact each individual Tribe regarding its policies. Do not attempt to engage in any of the above mentioned activities without prior authorization. Failure to comply with Tribal regulations could result in fines, confiscation of equipment and/or expulsion from Tribal Lands.

Dances are sacred ceremonies. Observe them as you would any other religious function by dressing and acting appropriately. Be mindful of where you sit, stand and walk. For example, at certain Hopi dances men and women sit apart; during pow wows it may not be appropriate to stand beside a drum; and it is inappropriate to walk across the pow wow arena during a dance. Never pick up any object that is dropped during a ceremony. Please refrain from talking to the ceremonial dancers. Applause after ceremonial dances is considered inappropriate.

Some of the Tribal buildings and structures may be several hundred years old and damage easily; do not climb on walls or other structures. Do not disturb or remove animals, plants, rocks or artifacts including pot shards, as Tribal and federal laws prohibit the removal of such items.

Use caution when driving, especially at night. Much of the reservation land is open range, and small herds of sheep, goats, cattle and horses move freely along and across roads.

Like any community, a reservation is home to those who live and work there and should be respected as such. Although most reservation communities are open to the public during daylight hours, the homes are private and should be entered only by invitation.

Save money with an annual pass to Arizona State Parks

2011-04-14T22:43:00.000-07:00

Do you enjoy visiting your favorite Arizona State Park time and again? Or do you find that visiting State Parks in a region is more appealing? Whichever suits your needs, Arizona State Parks offers a deal for you, your friends, and your family through its annual pass program.

Three annual passes are available, a standard pass for $75 a year, a premium pass for $200 that offers increased benefits, and a disabled veteran's annual pass which is free. Any two individuals may put their names on a pass.

Learn all about the passes at the Arizona State Parks website. They are available for purchase at many Arizona State Park visitor centers and gift shops.

Ancient Arizona history awaits your discovery at Montezuma Castle National Monument

2011-04-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

When some people think of Arizona, they imagine a hot, sandy desert full of spiny cacti and rattlesnakes. Too bad, because as the people who live here and love it know, Arizona offers to much more.

Driving north from Phoenix, you descend through the mineral-rich Black Hills, which glow pink and purple at sunset, into the lush oasis of the Verde Valley. Gazing north across the valley, you see the red sandstone cliffs of Sedona and, in the far distance, the blue San Francisco Peaks of Flagstaff—the highest point in the state. Here, nestled among the white limestone hills along Beaver Creek, you'll find Montezuma Castle National Monument.

Though 900 years old, Montezuma Castle is still roughly 90 percent original, making it one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in the Southwest. Montezuma Castle stands as the legacy of a people who thrived here in the Verde Valley, a people referred to by archeologists as the Sinagua. In the monument's museum, examples of their prehistoric weaving, pottery, basketry, sandals, jewelry, and tools reflect the skill and ability of these people, who survived and flourished in the desert. Through the artifacts and structures they left behind, we are able to peek back in time.

Today's park environment, full of native plants and animals, is very similar to the backyard of an indigenous person 1,000 years ago. And, no visit to the park is complete without a trip to a special place nearby called Montezuma Well. Here you will discover a huge limestone sinkhole, spring-fed with 1.5 million gallons of water every day, all of which continually flows out through a prehistoric irrigation canal. The well is a unique aquatic habitat, home to organisms found nowhere else on the planet.

Arizona is more than sand and snakes. Take a trip to Montezuma Castle National Monument and discover the sycamores and Sinagua ingenuity for yourself!

Kartchner Caverns State Park cave tour reservations now available online

2011-04-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

Kartchner Caverns State Park cave tour tickets and Kartchner campground reservations are now available for booking 24-hours a day on the Arizona State Parks website. The Kartchner Caverns call center will be the central reservation system headquarters for all State Parks as campground reservations come online this spring at the other parks.

According to Arizona State Parks Executive Director Renée Bahl, "Kartchner Caverns is extremely popular and our visitors now will be able to book cave tours from anywhere in the world in advance or the same day. The website is simple and intuitive," says Bahl. "With just a few clicks web surfers can conveniently choose a date, pick their tour times, type and number of tickets, and check-out 24-hours a day. Then the customer will receive an email receipt to printout and bring with them to the park on the day of their tour."

Kartchner Caverns is a stunning limestone cave discovered in 1974 in Southeastern Arizona that opened to the public in 1999. The cave flourishes underground with 99% humidity, while the desert above is only at 10% humidity. Maintaining the delicate ecosystem inside the cave while offering tours to the public has been a balancing act for the State Parks. Rust-colored stalactites drip down like icicles and giant stalagmites reach up from the floor of the cave glistening with the drops of moisture that cover the colorful flowstone.

Kartchner Caverns cave tours can be booked one year in advance with Throne/Rotunda and Big Room tours available all winter. The Big Room is closed Apr. 16-Oct 1 so the mother bats can roost and raise their young in that part of the cavern, and the Rotunda/Throne Room is closed in order to allow for scientific monitoring and assessment from October 10 through December 14.

Prices for the tours are $22.95 for adults and $12.95 for children age (7-13) and customers may book up to a maximum of 20 tickets. Tours start at 9AM and go throughout the day until 4:30PM.

For more information about all of Arizona's State Parks call 800-285-0373 or visit the website.

Celebrate Earth Day at Red Rock State Park

2011-04-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

The Benefactors of Red Rock State Park near Sedona are preparing a celebration in honor of the park’s 20th year with an Earth Day/Birthday Celebration. The organization is promising a fun-filled day of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages. There will be music, food, activities for kids, guided hikes, nature talks, wildflower walks and more.

For 20 years now this beautiful 286-acre park has served as an Environmental Education Center, a conservation area of 1.4 miles of unspoiled Oak Creek flood plain, and as a beautiful hiking area of 5 miles of safe, well-kept trails with spectacular vistas of the Creek and the famous Sedona Red Rock Country.

Red Rock State Park is open 7 days a week from 8 am - 5 pm. The park entry fee is $10 per vehicle for four people and $3.00 per additional person. Pets are not allowed in the park.

Sharlot Hall Museum complex chronicles Prescott's early history

2011-03-31T14:17:00.000-07:00

A few short blocks from the plaza in downtown Prescott, Arizona, the Sharlot Hall Museum’s assemblage of historic buildings and permanent collections makes it the largest museum complex in central Arizona.

Changing exhibits illustrate the early days of Prescott and the Arizona Territory. The museum staff, actors, and volunteers also present a variety of live programs such as festivals, theatre performances, and living history reenactments that depict the area’s rich regional heritage.

Housing the first territorial governor, the Governor’s ”Mansion” (actually a rustic cabin, but a mansion by mid-1860’s standards, compared to the tents, wagons, and crude cabins in which the rest of Prescott’s citizens lived) was built on this site in 1864 from Ponderosa pine logs cut in the surrounding forest. Sharlot Hall moved into the mansion in 1927 and opened it as a museum a year later.

The museum buildings include the Fremont House built in 1875, home of John Charles Fremont while he served as Arizona’s fifth Territorial Governor, and Fort Misery built in 1863-64--the oldest standing log building in the Arizona Territory.

Scattered around the museum grounds you will also find replicas of a typical ranch house and a schoolhouse of the period, an authentic 1885 iron turbine windmill relocated from a local ranch, a vehicle collection featuring Sharlot Hall’s 1927 Star, and a variety of gardens including the Rose Garden with over 260 rose bushes honoring Arizona’s pioneer women. Located at 415 West Gurley Street in Prescott.

Wickenburg, the "most western town" keeps old West alive

2011-03-22T09:39:00.000-07:00

Voted the "Most Western" town in the west, the Arizona community of Wickenburg has atmosphere.

A couple of years ago, True West magazine, put Wickenburg in the "Top 10 List of True Western Towns of 2008."

In the mid-1800s Henry Wickenburg came to the area in search of gold and discovered the Vulture Mine, where over $30 million in gold was found. There are still relics around the area that stand as a tribute to these early adventurers as well as a walking tour around Vulture Mine, according to the Wickenburg Chamber of Commerce.

Wickenburg's western attractions have called tourists to come "Out Wickenburg Way" since the 1930s. To add a contemporary touch with an affectionate nod to its history, the town commissioned realistic life-size bronze sculptures that are threaded through the old section of town.

The sculptures are a series of six old western characters and 16 linking animal pieces by renowned artist J. Seward Johnson. The artist's work is in private and public collections around the world.

An added feature is that each large sculpture includes a button with a narrative on the history of the area.

The public art includes "Jail Tree Felon" that depicts "the use of the large mesquite tree as a place to chain prisoners in early Wickenburg days until they could be transported to the nearest jail in Prescott. It is located at the Jail Tree Park on Tegner Street (Hwy-93) by Chaparral Ice Cream Parlor and Circle K."

"Vaquero with Guitar" provided "an evening serenade to downtown visitors in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. He strums on Wickenburg Way (Hwy-60) in front of the Gold Nugget Lounge."

The 16 smaller bronzes "depict local desert creatures including gila monsters, roadrunners, tarantulas and rattlesnakes. They provide linkage between the six major pieces."

If you go:
Cost: Free
Hours: 24/7
URL: www.WickenburgChamber.com
Phone: (800) 942-5242

Photos: From top: 'Jail Tree Felon,' 'Vaquero with Guitar,'and 'Gila Monster.' Julianne Crane

New Grand Canyon water bottle filling stations nearing completion

2011-03-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK — The National Park Service is nearing completion of the installation of nine new water bottle filling stations inside Grand Canyon National Park. In a news release the park service said that the water filling stations are being installed in high traffic areas on both rims. Six will be located on the South Rim, and all will be equipped to provide year-round access to water. Installation should be completed by the end of March.

The park service said three additional water bottle filling stations will be located on the North Rim at North Kaibab Trailhead, the North Rim Visitor Center and the North Rim Backcountry Office and will be ready by summer.

Tour and campground reservations now accepted at Kartchner Caverns State Park

2011-03-16T17:12:00.000-07:00

Reservations are now being accepted for Kartchner Caverns State Park cave tours and campsites.

Kartchner Caverns is a stunning limestone cave discovered in 1974 in Southeastern Arizona that opened to the public in 1999. The cave flourishes underground with 99 percent humidity, while the desert above it's only ten percent.

The caverns feature a variety of 32 different calcite formations created by the water percolating down through the desert's the surface.

Cave tours can be booked one year in advance with Throne/Rotunda and Big Room tours available all winter. The Big Room is closed Apr. 16-Oct 1 so the mother bats can roost and raise their young in that part of the cavern, and the Rotunda/Throne Room is closed to allow for scientific monitoring and assessment from October 10 through December 14.

Prices for the tours are $22.95 for adults and $12.95 for children age (7-13) and customers may book up to a maximum of 20 tickets. Tours run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

A two loop Campground is located off of the main road past the Discovery Center on the southwest end of the park. Camping fees are $25 per night.

The park's Discovery Center features museum exhibits, a large gift shop, regional displays, a theater, educational information about the caverns and the surrounding landscape. There are also hiking trails, lockers, shaded picnic areas, a cafe, an amphitheater, and a hummingbird garden. For more information call (602) 542-4174 (outside of metro area call toll-free at 800-285-0373) or visit AZStateParks.com.

New app puts Grand Canyon National Park in the palm of your hand

2011-03-15T08:51:00.000-07:00

A new smartphone app providing a complete resource for exploring Grand Canyon National Park is now available for download at the iTunes app store and Android Market for the special introductory price of only $.99 through April 1, 2011. After that, the app will sell for the regular price of $4.99. A “lite” version of the app is available for free.

An indispensable resource for anyone exploring our 2nd most visited national park, this new app delivers constantly updated content, including ranger led activities, free shuttle bus schedules and much more. Users can view sunset and sunrise times for the most memorable scenic overlooks (including Hopi Point, the park's most popular sunset destination), review lodging options, plan hikes, learn about over 250 points of interest such as Grand Canyon’s impressive overlooks and access a complete list of facilities including locations of all the restrooms in the park.

The Grand Canyon app boasts a rich and impressive map interface that is custom-made, GPS enabled, includes every hiking trail in the park, and displays interactive points of interest.

New state park for Arizona

2011-02-24T09:00:00.000-08:00

With all the financial problems the states are having, and especially in Arizona where several of the state parks have already closed, you wouldn't think that the state would be adding a new state park.

Well, actually, they aren't. But they are about to change the name of Hololovi Ruins State Park to a different name, possibly dropping the word "Ruins" from the name as has been requested by the Hope Tribe, who will be operating the park.

With the grand re-opening of the State Parks/Hopi Tribe partnership to launch on March 18, the State Parks Board asking for public comment. They are open to any suggestions the public may have to offer about this name change and will discuss this at the March 17, 2011 public Board meeting in Winslow City Council Chambers.

Public suggestions about changing the name of the State Park may be directed to the Arizona State Parks website "Comments" section.

These Hopi ancestral villages at Homolovi Ruins State Park include four major pueblos, numerous smaller structures and site features ranging in size from one-room pithouses to a 1200-room pueblo, and panels of petroglyphs with numerous depictions of katcina and clan symbols. The sites date from AD 620-850; AD 1050-1225; and AD 1260-1400.

Grand Canyon "Star Party" not for Hollywood set

2010-06-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

If you'd like to look at some really heavenly bodies, head for either the North or South rims of the Grand Canyon in early June for the big Star Party. No, you won't find the flashing of Paparazzi cameras, and no models worthy of the annual "Swimsuit Edition." Rather, the Star Party is looking up--way up!

Each year the National Park Service teams up with astronomers to bring the starry heavens closer to earthly viewers. With telescopes, park visitors get a chance to zoom in on real stars and planets. With its location far away from big city sources of light pollution, the Grand Canyon is an excellent venue for a good views of the stellar heavens.

Running a full eight days (and nights) from Saturday June 5 through the following Saturday, June 12, amateur astronomers will bring their equipment to give visitors a chance to view planets, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies at night; and to view the sun by day. At the South Rim venue, events include a slide show nightly at 8:00 p.m. next to Yavapai Observation Station, followed by free telescope viewing. Across the way on the North Rim, telescopes will be set up on the porch of the Grand Canyon Lodge every evening.

Park folk remind visitors that at the Grand Canyon the high elevation spells cool nights. Bring yourself sweaters, jackets, a layered outlook on clothing. For South Rim visits, Plan to walk or arrive by free Village Route shuttle bus which runs until 11:00 p.m. For a comfortable spot at the slide shows, arrive early and bring something to sit on. Telescope viewing continues well into the night; visitors may arrive anytime after dark. Visitors to the South Rim Star Party will need a flashlight for the walk to the viewing area, but are asked to keep flashlights pointed down to protect everyone’s night vision. A red flashlight is best, and can be made by covering any flashlight with red cellophane or red nail polish or even red magic marker.

For more information visit this site: http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm

photo courtesy Ron Short through the National Park Service

Speed cams vanish on Arizona highways

2010-05-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar: On July 16, Arizona's famous (or infamous, depending on your perspective) speed cameras are shutting down. And depending on your perspective, this will either prove to be a day to celebrate freedom from government intrusion into our lives, or as an editorial in the Arizona Daily Republic puts it, the situation will be "turning the state's highways into an amateur version of Phoenix International Raceway."

The controversial fixed and mobile mounted highway speed cams were established on Arizona's highways during the administration of the last Governor, Janet Napolitano. At the the time both safety and financial issues were cited, suggesting that the unmanned radar-operated cameras could reduce accidents and help the Grand Canyon State's sagging coffers. Like a lot of other controversies, it depends on who you listened to as to if any of those projections really came true.

One thing is certain, the highway cameras did fire up plenty of opinion, and action. The negative responses tallied in from the childish--shooting of "silly string" over camera faces--to the completely villainous--shooting to death the civilian employee operator of one of the mobile mounted cams. One area judge ruled the system unconstitutional, and dismissed more than 8,000 of the speed cam generated citations.

Just how traffic will react, and what the final outcome will be will have to be determined long after the cameras vanish--like a fading Polaroid picture left out in the desert sun.

photo: Pistols Drawn on flickr.com by creative commons license.

Grand Canyon hosts special archeology day, March 27

2010-03-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, March 27, 2010, Grand Canyon National Park will host Archeology Day in honor of “Arizona Archaeology and Heritage Awareness Month.” Intended to help park visitors learn more about the people who lived in the area long ago and to gain a greater understanding of the work that archeologists do and what can be learned from their research, Archeology Day will feature a series of special activities at Grand Canyon Visitor Center. Make clay pinch pots and split-twig figurines, experience the thrill of the archeological find by “sifting for artifacts” then identifying what is found and hypothesizing what it was once used for.

The event will also include two special evening program speakers. On Friday, March 26^th, Vanishing Treasures Archeologist Ian Hough will present “Extreme Cultural Landscapes: New Archeological Research in Grand Canyon.” On Saturday, March 27^th, Park Guide Jennifer Onufer will share her experiences on an archeology trip down the Colorado River in “A River of Dramatic Change. Both programs will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Shrine of Ages Auditorium near Parking Lot A.

All Archeology Day activities and programs are being offered free of charge on the South Rim. All activities are also family friendly and, with the exception of the evening program, will be offered at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Saturday.

For additional information on Archeology Day check out the park’s web site at http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/arch_day.htm

Back country tour of Casa Grande--this month only

2010-03-11T12:28:00.000-08:00

Casa Grande Ruins National Monument is the country's first archaeological reserve, given that status back in 1892. While that may seem a few ages ago, the original settlers here, the Hohokam, made what the monument is today. Somewhere back in the 1200s, or so the scientific diggers tell us, these natives built structures out of caliche, or what contractors today would call hard pan.

While those who visit the monument on your average day will get a shot at viewing The Casa Grande, or "The Big House" as the Spaniards dubbed it, most of the year the actual back country of the monument is closed to public traffic. Not so this month: On weekend mornings through Sunday the 28th, park rangers will lead special tours of the back country to see such sites as the Prehistoric Ballcourt, Compound B, and an ancient roasting pit or “horno.”

If you'd like to get in on a tour, either show up or call the park at 520-723-3172.

National Park Service photo

Mexican gray wolves return to the wild

2010-02-09T09:27:00.000-08:00

If the plan by Mexican wildlife officials stays on track, wildlife watchers may soon be able to spot Mexican gray wolves in Arizona and New Mexico.

Officials plan to release five wolves in the Sierra San Luis range, which extends from about 85 miles south of the Arizona/Mexico border to within 25 miles of the border. Wolves are known to travel as much as 80 miles a week, and could eventually connect with wolves at the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area in northeastern Arizona and northwestern new Mexico.

Mexican officials and conservationists have long planned to reintroduce Mexican gray wolves to their original range. The last known wild wolves were trapped in the 1970s as part of an effort to save the subspecies of gray wolves. A captive breeding program was established, and now more than 300 wolves live in 40 U.S. and Mexican facilities.

The United States released 11 animals from the endangered gray wolf subspecies into the Blue Range Wolf Recovery Area in 1998. The goal was that natural reproduction and reintroduction would bring the population to 100 in a few years.

The first wild pups were born in 2002, but continuing difficulties have meant that the wolves have struggled to maintain their population. On Friday, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that its annual wolf census found 42 animals on the ground at the end of 2009, compared to 52 at the end of 2008. It was the lowest number in seven years.

They're largely prohibited from leaving the confines of the Blue Range area. If seen outside the range, and between an area bordered by Interstate 40 to the north and Interstate 10 to the south, they are to be returned to the Blue Range.

Perhaps just as worrisome for the wolf project, at least two of eight wolves whose carcasses were found last year had been shot, meaning apparent poaching of the wolves, a problem Federal officials are investigating.

Geo-Cache Treasure Hunt coming to Cattail Cove State Park

2010-02-05T08:28:00.000-08:00

Cattail Cove State Park will hosts its 4th Annual "Geo-Cache Bash" from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20.

The "Geo-Cache Bash" begins with a brief history about Global Positioning System (GPS). How GPS was conceived and the etiquette that goes along with the sport will be discussed. To participate, attendees should bring their GPS unit with them and have a basic understanding of how their GPS unit works.

Afterward, attendees can choose to search for more than a dozen geo-cache sites. There will be hidden caches on various trails for hikers, along with several sites along the shoreline, and even a couple of sites dedicated to those who are wheelchair bound.

Geo-caching began in 2000 after the Defense Department stopped scrambling the signals beamed to GPS receivers from military satellites, making it easier for recreational users to find specific locations. It has since grown in popularity for both families and corporate groups. "Geo" for geography and "cache" for hidden stash provides a fun opportunity to enjoy and explore the outdoors using a (GPS) receiver.

The park encourages responsible Geo Caching practices in all natural settings, including limiting graffiti, digging, trash, illegal off road vehicle use, vandalism, or caches near archeological sites or commercial use.

For more information call Cattail Cove State Park at (928) 855-1223 or visit AZStateParks.com. Cattail Cove State Park is located on State Route 95, 15 miles south of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Campsites with electricity are available for $26 a night. The beach, boat ramp and campsites offer a broad spectrum of activities for all to enjoy including swimming, fishing, or just lounging around and relaxing.

Please call ahead to find out the latest information about the State Parks by calling (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit AZStateParks.com. Follow us on twitter.com/AZStateParks.

Arizona RV park snowbirds staying longer

2010-02-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

If you haven't yet arrived in Arizona for this year's snowbird season, it is likely you won't make it. However, if after watching the chaotic weather that is now plaguing the mid-west and Canada and you are thinking about extending your stay to avoid the winter furies, don't wait too long to extend your reservation.

The Arizona Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds says that Arizona’s recreational vehicle parks have seen greater numbers than last year, with parks up between ten and 30 percent.

And many of these snowbirds are now extending their stay into March and April.

If the winter weather remains bad--except in Arizona, of course--you may find that the RV Resorts will stay full, with RVers snatching up those campsites where the reservation doesn't extend beyond February. You might not want to stay indecisive for too long, or you may find yourself out in the cold.

Arizona lawmakers want to expand citizens' rights to carry guns

2010-02-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

Arizona has always held tightly to its legacy as part of the Wild West and a protector of individual rights.

This year, the state's Republican governor and a conservative legislature have proposed more than a dozen bills to expand rights to carry and use guns and knives. According to the Arizona Republic, proposed laws would allow people to carry concealed weapons without a permit, end requirements that guns manufactured and kept in Arizona be registered, and allow university professors to carry guns on school grounds.

Although the Arizona Republic notes that the number of bills on the subject is not unusual, weapons-rights supporters believe this year -- with a conservative governor, a Legislature sympathetic to their cause and more freedom to address issues other than the budget - may be their year to lift many limits. It also is an election year, and gun rights have always been a popular campaign platform among conservatives.

* * *

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100 attend Capitol rally for state parks

2010-02-02T11:16:00.001-08:00

Waving signs admonishing lawmakers for sweeping state park funds into the general fund to meet budget shortages, more than 100 protesters turned out for the rally at the Capitol Mall on Monday. The parks budget dropped from $26 million in January 2009 to $7.5 million.

Speakers at the rally said further park closures would bring severe economic harm to rural areas that rely on tourism, and an estimated $260 million in revenues to state and local governments. Last month, after the budget cuts from the Legislature, the Arizona State Parks Board voted to close thrteen more parks by the end of June. Eight other parks either are closed already, were transferred to outside control, or are being kept open through an outside funding source.

Other speakers advocated the House Bill 2628 that would create a dedicated funding stream for state parks through vehicle license fees. In exchange for paying the fee, Arizona motorists would get free admission to any state park. The bill has not yet been scheduled for a hearing.

Rally to save state parks

2010-01-30T13:37:00.000-08:00

House Bill 2628 and House Concurrant Resolution 2040 both call for a fee to be added to every non-commercial Arizona vehicle to be used for funding the state parks. They vary slightly in how that would be done and the amount of the fee. Both admit vehicles with Arizona license plates for free day use to all state parks. This seems to be a good way to not only fund the parks but to increase usage, and therefore appreciation, for state parks.

However, one thing concerns me, as it should all RV snowbirds. What do they intend to charge us "outsiders" for admission? Will this become a situation of appeasing and pleasing Arizona voters at the expense of out-of-state visitors? Will parks begin charging snowbirds a day use fee in addition to a camping fee as is done in some other states?

Though I think the base plan is good, I wonder who is looking out for RV snowbirds. If you want to make your voice heard, join the Arizona State Parks Foundation and plan on attending the rally at the Arizona State Capitol on Monday, February 1st at 10:30 a.m.

Bill Meek, President of Arizona State Parks Foundation will be among the featured speakers. Following the program, attendees will be encouraged to move to the House Floor Gallery for the 1:00 p.m. session opening. Afternoon hearings are scheduled to be conducted by the House and Senate Natural Resources Committees which represent the interests of Arizona State Parks to the full House and Senate.

Visit the Arizona State Parks Foundation Web site for more details.

Red Rock State Park in Sedona announces February programs

2010-01-29T11:58:00.000-08:00

Cliff Dwellings of the Verde Valley:
February 7

A program on "Cliff Dwellings of the Verde Valley: An Archeological Perspective on a Unique Architectural Trend" will be presented on Sunday, at 2 p.m. in the theater at Red Rock State Park. Matt Guebard, park archeologist from Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments, will present a program that will describe cliff dwellings and "cavates" used in the Verde Valley during the 13th and 14th centuries.

Most of us are familiar with the term "cliff dwellings," while "cavates" are specialized rock shelters. Particular attention will be paid to the best-known dwellings in the area, such as Palatki (photo) and Montezuma Castle.

Reservations are recommended, as seating is limited. Call (928) 282-6907 for info. Program is free with paid admission to the Park.

Geology Hike: February 14

On the second Sunday, visitors can join a volunteer on a guided geology hike through Red Rock State Park. You will learn why the rocks are red, where they came from, where they are going, and more. This hike includes the Eagle's Nest Trail for a great view of the Park and surrounding area.

More than a guided hike, this is an interpretive experience for the beginner as well as advanced geologist. The hike lasts for 2 to 2 ½ hours and has a 250-feet elevation climb. Bring water and wear suitable shoes or boots.

Daily Guided Nature Walks:

Daily at 10 a.m., visitors can join a naturalist on a guided nature walk, lasting 1½ to 2 hours, which will introduce them to the riparian ecosystem of Oak Creek and other aspects of the Park. Plants, wildlife, geology, history, and archeology are some of the subjects that may be discussed.

Daily Activity:

Daily at 2 p.m., the Park hosts either a guest speaker or a ranger/naturalist-led activity of approximately 45 minutes. Programs may include a nature-hike, a special presentation, or an educational/nature video. This program may be an indoor or outdoor activity.

Wednesday and Saturday Bird Walks:
Walks begin at 9 a.m. This month, with the Park again open daily, the Wednesday and Saturday morning Bird Walks return. Beginning as well as advanced birders are welcome. Rangers recommend that visitors being their own binoculars. A limited number are available for loan.

Arizona's famous Oak Creek meanders through Red Rock State Park creating a diverse riparian habitat for plants and wildlife. It provides the backdrop for our special hikes that are a regular part of the Park's environmental program.

For more information or reservations call (928) 282-6907. Red Rock State Park is located at 4050 Lower Red Rock Loop in Sedona. Red Rock State Park will be open daily in February from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitor Center hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Should Yuma buy its now-closed state park?

2010-01-28T09:06:00.000-08:00

This letter from Yuma resident David Palmer appeared in the Yuma Sun. We think it's well-worth passing along to you here:

It is hard to believe that the Arizona parks department would consider closing an important heritage site such as Yuma Territorial Prison State Park. Their primary concern is not for the historic importance but cutting their budget.

I suggest the city of Yuma offer to purchase this site for the sum of $1. The city would agree never to sell or lease this site or change the zoning to commercial or residential. The city of Yuma would commit to ensuring that any changes or improvements to buildings or property would maintain historical integrity. The property would belong in perpetuity to the citizens of Yuma.

This would immediately solve the state's monetary concerns and relieve them of being responsible for the future integrity of this wonderful heritage site.

The city of Yuma would have pride of ownership, as well as a world-class tourist stop.

It would need to be promoted - and new ideas are welcome. How about designing original prison guard uniforms for employees, doing newspaper advertising, installing a cannon to be fired daily when opening and using highway roadside advertising boards?
We should never allow this historical site to be closed.

Indian music festival at Casa Grande this weekend

2010-01-28T09:01:00.000-08:00

Looking for something a little unusual and "off the beaten path," in terms of culture? This weekend, January 30 and 31, Casa Grande Ruins National Monument near Tucson may have something for you: The 2nd Annual American Indian Music Fest.

Native American music is perhaps best known by the drum beats featured in pop-culture Western movies. But Native music is far more than drums: Many of the featured artists at this year's festival are flute players, but at least one musician on the docket features classic guitar. Traditional native dances will also take a spot at the festival.

And what festival would be complete without vendors offering related items for sale, and of course, food booths. Unfortunately, there is no camping available at the monument, other than "VIP" spots, apparently only available by special request. There are several commercial RV parks near Coolidge, the town in which the monument is located.

Visit Arizona State Parks--they need the revenue

2010-01-21T10:05:00.000-08:00

The damage to the state park system of Arizona has been done. Communities that do not rally to save the parks that are destined to close will be the losers, as will those of us who visited these state parks.

But there is something the rest of us can do now, and that is to visit the parks that remain open, not only for our enjoyment but also to provide the needed revenue that will not only keep those parks open but could also be used to reopen some that have closed.

Over the next nine days I will profile one of the remaining open parks. And please find time as well as make the necessary route changes to your itinery that will enable you to visit one of these fine parks, for yourself and for the future of Arizona State Parks.

Buckskin Mountain State Park

The park offers one of the finest views along the 18-mile Parker strip, "Arizona's West Coast," between Parker Dam and Headgate Dam. Dramatic mountains line the Colorado River on both the Arizona and California sides, and the wildlife is as varied as the recreational opportunities along the river.

This picturesque park provides a scenic respite, mountain hikes, a desert escape, and fun-filled water adventure. The park has a campground with full hook-up, partial hook-up, and primitive campsites, cabana sites, a beach, hiking trails, restrooms, showers, boat ramp, picnic area, basketball and volleyball court, playground, restaurant, camp store, arcade, gas dock, and ranger station.

In the summer, Buckskin is popular for boating, jet skiing, swimming, and camping and is visited by snowbirds from across America and Canada. In the winter, visitors appreciate the mild climate and enjoy camping, fishing and hiking in the park. Buckskin is a year-round destination for those looking to discover a variety of recreational and cultural resources.

The Colorado River Indian Reservation is just east of Parker and archaeological sites are scattered up and down the river. Parker Dam, the world's deepest dam, is located approximately five miles to the north on Highway 95. About 25 miles north is Lake Havasu City, home of the famous London Bridge. This 1,677-acre park has been operated by Arizona State Parks since 1967.

Note the following fee changes:

Starting Feb. 1, 2010, Buckskin Mountain State Park's camping sites with water, electric, & sewer will be $28. Camping sites with electric and water will be $26. Cabanas will be $25.

The nine Arizona Stat Parks that will remain open include Buckskin Mountain State Park in Parker, Catalina State Park near Tucson, Cattail Cove State Park in Lake Havasu City, Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood, Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area in Show Low, Kartchner Caverns State Park in Benson, Lake Havasu State Park, Patagonia Lake State Park and Slide Rock State Park in Sedona.

RV road trip: Exploring Arizona’s wineries

2010-01-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

When you think of wines, wineries, and vineyards, Arizona doesn't readily come to mind.

"Defying desert and canyon stereotypes, Arizona’s two prime grape-growing landscapes are as lovely as they are unexpected," says Edie Jarolim in the Arizona Guide. "And the award-winning wines they produce are wonderfully expressive."

Southern Arizona’s vineyards

The first Arizona winemakers planted their vines in the mile-high rolling grasslands of southeastern Arizona, near the towns of Patagonia and Sonoita. Dr. Gordon Dutt, a soil scientist, discovered that its red clay soil was nearly identical to that of the Cote D’Or in Burgundy, France. He planted the first experimental vineyard in 1973 and debuted his Sonoita Vineyards a decade later.

Now about a dozen other wineries have helped the area to earn its own Federal appellation of Sonoita. Once in Sonoita, an hour south of Tucson, you will find several wineries on or around Elgin Road. The best known of the group, Callaghan Vineyards represents the state’s first wine dynasty. Harold and Karen Callaghan planted the Buena Suerte vineyard in 1990, and their vintner son, Kent, has won numerous national kudos and awards in the last decade for his Spanish-style reds.

And following Arizona's cowboy tradition, the winery paired up with the Arizona Horseback Experience to offer a scenic ride followed by lunch and a wine tasting.

At the only tasting room in the town of Sonoita, Dos Cabezas WineWorks you can sit on a breezy patio overlooking an herb garden, and sample a crisp Viognier or the rich red El Norte blend, both winners of the Arizona Governor’s Award.

The winery’s name, Dos Cabezas, refers to the vineyard near Willcox that was the Bostocks’ winemaking operation before they moved to Sonoita. This original vineyard is now among several providing grapes to Maynard James Keenan (the front man for the band, Tool), whose Arizona Stonghold Vineyards belongs to the latest group of Arizona wineries.

North Central Arizona’s wineries

You can visit Page Springs Cellars and Caduceus Cellars on the newly designated Verde Valley Wine Trail. As with its southern counterpart, this Arizona wine region two hours northwest of Phoenix provides ideal conditions for grape cultivation: abundant sunshine, deep nighttime cool downs, and rich volcanic soil. It’s been compared to the Southern Rhone. The lush banks of the Verde River and Oak Creeks that meander through the Verde Valley, wouldn’t look out of place in the French countryside.

Along Page Springs Road and straddling Oak Creek, visit Page Springs Cellars for European styles with with local terroir; Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery, for small batch production of full-bodied reds; and Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery, where you can sip their award-winning Whole Foods Consumers Choice for 2009.

For information about other vineyards and winemakers throughout the state, see the Arizona Vines & Wines and the Arizona Wine Growers Association websites.

Four state parks saved by previous agreements

2010-01-19T18:22:00.000-08:00

With most of Arizona's state parks closing, as mentioned in previous posts here on RV Arizona, except for those that are turning a profit, there are four others that luckily survived the legislators ax.

These are the parks that had previously established agreements when the state park system took them over. Each will now revert back to the original operator or owner as per these agreements and will likely stay open unless the operator decides to close it.

These include Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park in Superior, Sonoita Creek State Natural Area (photo), Verde River Greenway State Natural Area and Yuma Quartermaster Depot State Historic Park, which the city of Yuma is keeping open and has already increased the number of visitors.

Check back often as we will keep you posted on the latest developments with the Arizona State Parks.

What you can do in response to state parks closing

2010-01-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

Part of the responsibility of state legislatures is to provide opportunities for recreation for the states' citizens and visitors. State parks are a part of this recreational plan. "Only if they make money" is not part of an effective management plan. Visitors to the parks also benefit the surrounding communities, businesses, and recreational support services by the money they spend on food, fuel, supplies, RV parks, restaurants, service facilities, etc.

Our tax money should support these quality-of-life recreational programs just as they support services that are not expected to make a profit. Maybe instead we should be looking at the pork that legislators attach to every bill that they becomes law. The port that benefits them, that buys them votes in their home districts, and keeps them in office.

And how about practicing some aggressive efficiency strictures to cut runaway expenses of government operation, and weed out the forgotten and overlooked black holes that our tax money seems to disappear into?

We as citizens, travelers, tourists, and RVers need to make our voices heard. We need to let the legislatures know that the short-sided act of closing state parks will not solve, nor in most caes even put a dent in their fiscal deficits.

And if you’re asking yourself why you, as an RVer in Michigan or New Hampshire, or Florida, should care about what happens to Arizona’s state parks, it's very likely that your parks could be next. This initial act of closing the Arizona parks could spread to state park systems across the country.

Your voice carries--as a voter and as a tourist/visitor to states--just ask the visitors bureaus, or chambers of commerce, or state tourism departments. It is important that you let your legislator know, as well as those in the states that you visit, that closing state parks is unacceptable, that it will cost not only votes but state visitation.

And let them know also that their duty and responsibility is not to just grab money to cover expenditures when they can, but more importantly to find creative ways to fund what is necessary to provide recreation for the people that he/she has sworn to serve.

You you don't know who to write to or don't havetheir email address, you can find the email and snail mail addresses of state and federal senators and congress men and women here.

Closing of Arizona state parks should not be tolerated

2010-01-18T12:08:00.000-08:00

The unanimous vote by the Arizona State Parks Board to close two-thirds of the state’s parks last Friday was a blow not only to RVers that use the parks for camping and other recreational and educational interests, but to all the state’s residents and visitors.

The decision, though understandable by short-sighted politicians during this fiscal crisis, is one that is being faced across the nation, most seriously in the states of Nevada, California, and Florida in addition to Arizona where the debt crisis is the largest.

With the current populist mantra of “no new taxes,” rampant joblessness, and widespread housing foreclosures, it is understandable why politicians won’t get behind practical methods to save the parks that could require a new tax. One such plan that was proposed in Arizona, with a similar petition making the rounds in California, calls for the creation of a foundation, separate from the General Fund, to finance and operate the state parks. It would require a new tax, $15 was the figure used, to be added to the vehicle registration fee of every vehicle registered in the state.

The total amount raised would go to the foundation and satisfy all the bugetary requirements for park operation and maintenance. And the fund would be immune from confiscation by politicians, as was the case in Arizona, to pay non-related state debt or to supply operating revenue.

The closure of the parks to politicians does not have the face of a voter on it, as would a single mother who loses her job, or a retired widow who loses her house. But this plan went nowhere, because all those vehicle owners in the state suddenly appeared in the politicians’ radar as furious voters. Why should they point out that the plan would give all vehicle owners free admission to all the state parks as a bonus for the $15 fee--which is less than half what two visits would normally cost? After all, it would make them sound pro-tax, a dirty word in this financial environment.

But what is potentially worse, is that when politicians in other states see that absconding with state park operating funds, cutting the parks’ budgets to impossible figures, and punishing and closing parks that do not pay for themselves can bring in badly needed revenue, the Arizona parks closures could be just the first domino to fall in a nationwide “close the parks” pandemic. Forget the fact that state parks were not created to be profit-making entities, but to provide recreation to the states’ citizens and visitors, which is the job--and responsibility--of elected officials everywhere.

Are we to kowtow to legislative irresponsibility and allow these valuable historic, natural history, and scenic locations to be closed simply because they don’t produce a profit? What will be next? Trash collectors? They don’t produce a profit. Nor do school teachers, police, fire fighters, or as a matter of fact, politicians.

List of state park closures

2010-01-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

When the dust settled on the vote by the Arizona State Parks Board yesterday, the result was that 13 state parks will close, the final plan leaving open only nine parks—at least as part of the state park system. Some may stay open by reverting to previous owners or administrative agencies other than the state parks system, as did the Yuma Quartermaster Depot when taken over by the city of Yuma.

The nine parks that will stay open are:
• Kartchner Caverns, near Benson
• Lake Havasu, Lake Havasu City
• Cattail Cove, near Lake Havasu City
• Slide Rock, Sedona
• Catalina, near Tucson
• Buckskin Mountain, near Parker
• Patagonia Lake, Patagonia
• Dead Horse Ranch, Cottonwood
• Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area, Show Low

The parks closing will be closed in sequence with the first phase of closures beginning February 22, 2010 and will include:
• Homolovi Ruins, Winslow
• Lyman Lake, St. Johns
• Riordan Mansion SHP, Flagstaff

The next phase will close on March 29, 2010 and will include:
• Fort Verde SHP, Camp Verde
• Roper Lake, Safford
• Tombstone Courthouse SHP, Tombstone
• Yuma Territorial Prison SHP, Yuma
• Tubac Presidio SHP, Tubac

The final phase will close on June 3, 2010 and include:
• Tonto Natural Bridge, Payson
• Alamo Lake, Wenden
• Lost Dutchman, Apache Junction
• Picacho Peak, between Phoenix and Tucson
• Red Rock, Sedona

Arizona shuts down 13 more state parks

2010-01-15T15:59:00.000-08:00

The Arizona State Parks Board voted unanimously Friday, Jan. 15, to close 13 more state parks in response to budget cuts. The move leaves two-thirds of the state's parks closed.

The action shuts down some of Arizona's Old West landmarks including Tombstone Courthouse and the Yuma Territorial Prison, one of Yuma's most popular tourist draws. The decision also closes other parks that attract tens of thousands of tourists a year.

Some parks will close almost immediately. The last round of closures will come June 3 when the popular RV camping destinations of Picacho Peak near Tucson, Lost Dutchman in Apache Junction and Alamo Lake will close along with several others.

Six profitable parks and three others that generate significant revenue in the spring and summer will remain open. They include Kartchner Caverns, Slide Rock, Lake Havasu, Cattail Cove and Buckskin Mountain.

State Park staff had offered the State Parks Board solutions that potentially could keep some parks open because they recognize the $266 million crisis for rural economies if the system were dismantled. "The State Parks system offers 27 destinations for 2.3 million tourists a year to travel into these rural communities as the system was envisioned by the Legislature in 1957 when the agency was created," said Reese Woodling the State Parks Board Chair. "State and National Parks are the tourism draws for visitors from around the world and any interruption in service causes dramatic impacts on the leisure economies, including impacting more than 3,000 leisure jobs in rural Arizona," he said.

The Legislature has cut 61 percent of the state parks budget since July. In December the Arizona State Parks department's budget was reduced by $8.6 million during the 5th Special Session of the Legislature.

Yuma keeps Quartermaster Depot State Park open

2010-01-15T12:51:00.000-08:00

With some of the Arizona State Parks on the permanent closure list, a deal between the parks department and the city of Yuma may emerge as a model for the cash strapped state.

Under the agreement, the city will operate the Quartermaster Depot park temporarily to ensure the historic attraction remains open for residents and visitors alike until the state recovers financially.

Yuma took over operation of the Depot last October. Since then the park has had 14,000 visitors, more than it had during the entire last 12 months.

"That's an example of Yuma working with the state to improve services to the public," Governor Brewer said in a speech in Yuma.

She later told the Yuma Sun: "Absolutely, the park is a role model for the rest of the state. I'm so thrilled to hear about how the city is stepping up to take this responsibility from the state. I've shared that with many other communities. It's remarkable you were able to put that together."

Closing a state park has big repercussions

2010-01-14T10:48:00.000-08:00

Lost Dutchman State Park is just one of many Arizona state parks that may be shut down by Arizona because of the state's money problems. This television news report shows how such a closure affects the park's patrons as well as the local economy.

Hope fading for state parks

2010-01-13T12:38:00.000-08:00

The reprehensible behavior of the Arizona legislature regarding the state parks is laid bare in the REPORT OF THE GOVERNOR’S SUSTAINABLE PARKS TASK FORCE that was released Friday.

The report states that, "These splendid assets, acquired by Arizona citizens over the past 50 years, should be a source of intense pride, a legacy to be passed on to future generations – our children and grandchildren.

"Instead, the condition of the State Parks system inspires a deep sense of shame in those who look below the surface. Arizona Parks are crumbling before our eyes and the entire system is on the verge of collapse."

The Parks have had no operating fund increases since 2002, repairs remain undone, historic buildings are collapsing, docks in lakes and rivers are splintering. Why did this happen?

Prior to 2003 the parks had a base operating fund of $8 million, and user fees went to support operations. But when the state had budget deficits, as in 2003 and 2009, the money accumulated for park improvements was instead taken away from the parks to help balance the state budget.

The report states, and this is a direct quote, "To be blunt: a decision to allow the Parks system to wither and die would be economically reckless and irresponsible. State Parks generates far more economic benefit for the state and its subdivisions than it costs to run and maintain the system.
"According to a 2007 study by Northern Arizona University, the 2.3 million visitors to State Parks produced a combined economic impact of $266 million in Arizona counties and cities where the Parks are located. That is nearly 10 times what it costs to operate the Parks system annually.

"Moreover, tourist expenditures attributed to Parks visitations generated more than $22.7 million in state and local taxes. That is nearly three times the General Fund appropriation the Legislature granted to State Parks in 2008."

And yet the legislature failed to act in a more responsible way. The result is that more than half of all Arizona's state parks will close. You can, however, make your voice heard. Log in to the Arizona State Parks Foundation and follow their Urgent Call to Action. It's your voice--as a voter and as a visitor to Arizona--that may get their attention.

State Parks staff recommends closing thirteen parks

2010-01-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

Arizona State Parks Board will consider this Friday a proposal by State Parks staff to close thirteen state parks due to budget deficits in the state. More parks may close if the parks cannot raise enough money from entry fees to keep them open by the end of the fiscal year, June 30.

The six most profitable parks based on visitation income include Alamo near Wenden, Kartchner Caverns in Benson, Slide Rock near Sedona, Catalina near Tucson, Dead Horse Ranch near Cottonwood and Lake Havasu at Lake Havasu City. Also remaining open would be Buckskin Mountain near Parker, Cattail Cove at Lake Havasu City, and Fool Hollow near Show Low.

The parks that would close under the proposal include Tonto Natural Bridge near Payson, Red Rock near Sedona, Lost Dutchman near Apache Junction, and Tombstone Courthouse in Tombstone.

Game & Fish presentation on Arizona's wild burros

2010-01-12T12:37:00.000-08:00

Today--Wednesday, January 13, 2010, Arizona Game and Fish Department will conduct an educational presentation on Arizona's wild burros--with a live Webcast if you can't make the event at www.azgfd.gov/webcast. The presentation will be at AGF offices at 5000 W. Carefree Highway in Phoenix.

The free program will cover the life history and ecology, legal history, resource and management issues, proposed legislation, and how burros on public lands relate to native wildlife and habitats in Arizona.

Three of the department's experts with over 50 years experience in the management of wildlife, habitats, and public lands will present different aspects of wild burros in Arizona, followed by a question-and-answer session with the public is encouraged to address questions, concerns, and issues about wildlife, habitats and wild burros.

Beginning birdwatching tour in Spanish at Wings Over Willcox festival

2010-01-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

Of the more than 900 species of birds that live in the United States and Canada, more than half can be found in Arizona at some time during the year. Some are here year round while others breed in Arizona and then migrate south to Mexico and other areas in Latin America for the winter.

For some birds that breed in the northern United States and Canada, southern Arizona is their winter destination, and January is the perfect time to see some of these species. Sandhill Cranes, ducks, sparrows, hawks, and many more species spend the winter months here before returning to their breeding grounds in the north in the spring.

The 17th Annual Wings Over Willcox Birding and Nature Festival will offer a special Beginning Bird Watching field trip in Spanish. Whether you are a native Spanish speaker or would just like to improve your own basic Spanish skills, the tour will teach basic bird identification skills, including how to use binoculars, how to use a field guide to identify birds, and more at the Willcox ponds and nearby areas.

Tour leaders Juan Caicedo and Jennie Duberstein have many years of experience teaching about and studying birds in Mexico and elsewhere in Latin America and they will be the guides for this three hour excursion. Binoculars and Spanish field guides will be provided for use during the tour if needed. The tour is free but requires registration. For more information or to register, contact Karla: 520-284-4122 or 507-1029.

Arizona Game & Fish releases pronghorns into new ranges

2010-01-09T15:11:00.000-08:00

If you are the type to geet excited when you glance out your RV window and see pronghorn, America's fastest land animal, streaking through the prairie grass, then you will be happy to find that Arizona Game & Fish is releasing pronghorn back into two native ranges tomorrow (Sunday and Monday, Jan. 10th and 11th).

About 30 animals will be given a new home at the Raymond Wildlife Area east of Flagstaff and another 50 southeast of Safford. This southwest icon will be joining and strengthening existing herds, and increasing the chances of us road rangers of even more pronghorn sightings.

Are you the rugged outdoor type?

2010-01-07T17:04:00.000-08:00

Do you like the outdoor life? Do you crave a life of adventure? Do you have what it takes to be a wildland firefighter? The Bureau of Land Management Gila District (southeastern Arizona) is recruiting applicants for seasonal employment during the 2010 fire season. To serve on a fire crew, persons must be at least 18 years of age, have a strong work ethic, be able to pass a pack test and maintain good physical fitness, be available to travel out of state for extended periods of time and be willing to contribute in a team-structured environment.

Applicants will be notified in May regarding their selection for one of the 20 positions on the crew. Recruits will receive classroom and field training that will enable them to safely and effectively tackle wildfire suppression.

The crew will be trained and ready for assignments starting later that month. While most fire duties will be in southeastern Arizona, some assignments may be out of state and last 14 consecutive days plus travel time. Emergency firefighters are hired on a call-when-needed basis and are only paid during training and fire assignments; pay is $17 per hour.

Those who think they have what it takes to be a wildland firefighter and who seek meaningful employment for several months should contact Jon Ziegler or Lathe Evans at the Gila District fire office located at the BLM Safford Field Office, 928-348-4400.

Here is your chance to be heard

2010-01-07T15:47:00.000-08:00

State wildlife workers would like you to help them determine how best to preserve wildlife in Arizona.

The Arizona Game and Fish department is holding meetings around the state over the next two months, including one held Wednesday in Tucson, to get comments on the State Wildlife Action Plan, or SWAP.

"We've taken the criteria that we developed several years ago, we've revisited those, tried to rewrite some of the criteria to make them clearer and more logical," says Thomas R. Jones of Arizona Game and Fish. "We've added criteria, we've taken away criteria, and we're asking our partners and the public to address that issue."

You can read the SWAP plan for yourself and offer your take on Arizona's wildlife.

Arizona Game & Fish steps up OHV decal compliance

2010-01-07T05:57:00.000-08:00

Citing statistics showing that less than one-quarter of off-highway vehicles in Arizona have the required OHV Decal, Arizona Game and Fish Department Director Larry Voyles announced that the agency’s officers would be stepping up compliance enforcement efforts in the field.

“Our officers will be issuing citations to off-highway vehicle users who don’t have the required decal on their OHV,” said Voyles. “The program has been in effect and public education efforts have been ongoing for over a year now. The compliance rate is very disappointing, given the benefits the program would provide to recreationists.”

Voyles likened the “user play, user pay” program to wildlife conservation, where hunters and anglers pay for wildlife conservation through the purchase of hunting and fishing licenses. “Rates for hunting license compliance exceed 95 percent,” said Voyles, “Hunters and anglers have demonstrated their commitment to wildlife conservation for decades.”

As for OHV Decal compliance, Voyles stressed, “Arizona Game and Fish officers have unequivocally demonstrated their ability to achieve compliance through aggressive law enforcement. All OHV users should expect more special OHV law enforcement operations throughout the state beginning in January and going on through this spring until compliance numbers show a dramatic increase.”

The OHV Decal program took effect Jan. 1, 2009 and requires the annual purchase of the $25 decal for any off-highway vehicle designed by the manufacturer primarily for use over unimproved terrain and weighing 1,800 pounds or less. This includes most ATVs, side-by-sides (utility vehicles), dirt bikes and some sand rails.

For more information about the OHV Decal program or OHV use in Arizona, go online to www.azgfd.gov/ohv.

Javelina attacks walker

2010-01-06T11:58:00.000-08:00

On New Year's day, a man walking on a path alongside Dove Mountain Blvd. in Tucson was attacked by a normally shy javelina or collared peccary.

The attack came at about 11:30 a.m., when the 66-year old man heard a noise behind him. He turned to see a female javelina charge him and bite him around the knee and thigh, knocking him to the ground.

The javelina continued to attack the man as he was on the ground, latching onto his wrist and forearm and wouldn't let go, according to Mark Hart, the public information officer for Arizona Game and Fish Department.

A passing bicyclist clobbered the javelina over the head first with a stick, and then with a log to get the animal to release the walker. A Marana Police Department officer arrived on scene about the time the javelina ran onto Dove Mountain Boulevard, and started toward a group of people. The officer sounded his siren, startling the javelina, which ran off into the desert. He pursued the javelina and killed it.

Because of the aggressive behavior and unprovoked attack of the javelina, the bite victim was treated for the bites at Oro Valley Hospital, where he began treatment for rabies.

The attack comes on the heels of a recent rabid bobcat attack on a man in Oracle on Dec. 23. In the last year, there were 261 confirmed rabid animals in Arizona, roughly a third of them in Pima County.

"We may be more aware of cases because of drought conditions which are bringing animals into urban areas in search of water and food," Hart said.

Arizona Game and Fish Department suggested taking the following action due to the increase in rabid animals showing up in urban areas or campgrounds.

Do not feed or leave food out for wild animals such as javelinas.
Pet owners should not leave their pet's food out overnight.
Make sure all pets are up-to-date with their shots.
Carry a walking stick and a whistle.
Never turn your back on an animal.
Do not approach animals that appear to be tame or are not acting as wild animals should.

Arizona legislature "poaches" donation to state parks

2010-01-04T15:26:00.000-08:00

If things weren't bad enough for Arizona's state parks, ABC News in Phoenix reported today that $250,000 left by eighty-two year old Asta Forest to Arizona State Parks has been "poached".

"She wanted to give this money so that other people could enjoy the state parks and all they have to offer," said trustee and family friend Roger Essenburg.

While parks officials were considering what to do with her donation, when the state Legislature met to cut cash from the budget, $213,000 was taken away from the Arizona State Parks donation fund--most of Forest's donation.

Can you blame folks for being upset with the state for taking the donated money and using it to fill gaps in Arizona's budget? Essenburg said he's very angry with the state for poaching Forest's donation.

"She would have never given money if she knew it would be used for other things other than the parks," said Essenburg.

It seems the Legislature can take any donations that have not been earmarked for a specific purpose, and use them as they need to.

Come on, Arizona. Are you legislators aware of what a backlash acts like this can provoke? I hope your mailboxes overflow with irate parks users demanding the return of these funds to their proper use, and that you reconsider the shortsighted plan to close the state parks to save money.

Go here for a list of the email addresses of the members of the Arizona state senate. Send them an email and let them know what you think.

Keep Arizona State Parks open

2010-01-04T13:54:00.000-08:00

Lawmakers’ decisions last month to close some Arizona State Parks means that some will close by year’s end, said Renee Bahl the agency's director.

The only question that remains is, which ones?

Bahl said the system--which gets no direct taxpayer dollars--is being crippled because of the legislative action to take away a chunk of the funds they get from other sources. That includes not only the fees paid by those who go to the parks but also special funds raised from assessments on registration of boats and off-road vehicles.

The bottom line, she said, is that her agency will have just $7.5 million to spend rather than the $19 million it had planned for the fiscal year that began last July 1.

Bahl said she will make specific recommendations to the board on which parks to close in two weeks at their January 15th meeting. The bad news is that it will likely close the smallest and least used of the parks. But, she said, the cash from the parks that stay open might eventually be enough to reopen one or more of those shut down.

Topping the list of money producers is Kartchner Caverns, followed by Slide Rock in Sedona, and Lake Havasu state parks. Catalina State Park brings in about $193,000 more a year than it costs to operate.

At the bottom of the list is Tonto Natural Bridge near Payson, where costs exceed revenues by $541,000. Red Rock State Park at Sedona operates on a $190,000-a-year loss, with six-digit deficits at Tubac Presidio, Picacho Peak, Homolovi Ruins and the Riordan Mansion in Flagstaff.
Can this be the end of these parks?

Bahl said, though, the board will have to consider other factors when deciding which parks should be shut down.

"There's one-time costs like fencing or if we needed to add a security system to a building or board something up," she said. "And we're still going to need to keep an eye on it after that, checking it both for fire hazards and seeing if there's any trespassing.”

Do they not recognize that the parks bring in more in tax dollars from visitors to communities than just the cost to operate the parks? Can lawmakers be that clueless?

What about the idea that was recently floated about putting an optional $15 surcharge on the registration fees for all vehicles in the state. The fees would raise enough to keep the system operating, with motorists who paid the extra cash getting free admission all year to every state park. Sounds like a win-win situation to me.

Many of the parks will be lost forever because of previous legal agreements. For example, the Tombstone Courthouse and parking lot reverse to previous owners if it is permanently closed. Land at Picacho Peak and Lost Dutchman reverts to the federal Bureau of Land Management if they are no longer operated as parks, with the Defenders of Wildlife entitled to reclaim Oracle State Park if shuttered. Yuma Prison would have to be given back to the federal government.

Do you want to do something about it? Well, you can. And you don’t have to be a resident of Arizona either.

Call, email, or write Governor Jan Brewer and urge her to veto the parks cuts (a sample letter can be found on the State Park Foundation’s Website).

Phone: 602-542-4331 or 800-253-0883
Email via Governor's Contact page at: www.governor.state.az.us/Contact.asp
Mail: The Honorable Jan Brewer, Governor of Arizona,
1700 West Washington, Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Do it now! And pass the word among those snowbirding in Arizona. You may not have another chance!

Arizona RV resorts welcome winter snowbirds

2010-01-04T05:39:00.000-08:00

With the wealth of Arizona RV parks there is no reason not to head out into Arizona’s dramatic landscape. If you’ve never been to an Arizona RV resort, the invigorating contrast of the red rock and blue sky will be a pleasant surprise. Return visitors have a vast appreciation for the wide open red scenery that acts as backdrop for jutting monoliths and prickly cacti. At night, the galaxy opens up and blankets the desert in an intricate lattice-work of stars, the likes of which you may never find anywhere else. Alongside the sparkling Colorado River, the oasis in the desert, are two fantastic resorts that offer both luxury and location, two of the best indicators of great vacation destinations.

Lake Havasu RV Resort - Located near Lake Havasu and Lake Havasu City, Arizona this RV resort is a fisherman’s dream. Lake Havasu is home to many professional fishing competitions and boasts some of the best fishing around. Catch Bass, Crappie, Sunfish, Catfish, or perhaps even one of the elusive White Sturgeon that were stocked in the lake in the late 60’s. None of the Sturgeon have been caught yet, but they can survive for up to one hundred years so don’t count them out just yet!

Although this area is far from the drizzly, gridlocked streets of London, you can still visit the original London Bridge. Robert Paxton McCulloch, an American businessman, bought the bridge after the city of London deemed it unable to withstand the traffic of the city. The bridge was taken apart, brick by brick, and re-laid in Arizona. Capture the spirit of the bridge and visit the Olde English village that sits just beneath it. Have a pint and some fish and chips in one of the village’s restaurants and you will truly feel that you have been transported halfway across the globe.

Yuma Lakes RV Resort – In southern Arizona, close to the historic town of Yuma, this resort is swarming with life. Head into Yuma for some gun-slingin’ history and visit the Yuma Territorial Prison State Park, the most popular state park in Arizona. It was once the home of Arizona’s worst criminals and has caught the world’s imagination in movies, books, and television for decades since. Back at the resort, you can fish on the pristine lake stocked with Bass and enjoy peace and quiet to soothe your soul.

Lake Havasu City steps up to plate to keep park open

2009-12-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

One of Arizona's most visited state parks, Lake Havasu's Windsor Beach, is on the state's budgetary chopping block. When state officials threatened to close down the park for lack of funding, 'City Fathers' have stepped into the gap.

Charlie Cassens, Lake Havasu City's interim city manager is quoted in the Arizona Republic, "We're ready to do whatever's necessary to keep Lake Havasu State Park open for our residents and our visitors," he said. "That is a vital and integral part of this community's economy." State officials will meet this Thursday to deliberate whether or not to turn control of the popular park over to the city. With nearly 250,000 visitors a year, a closure would certainly mean a hit on tourism revenues.

Other Arizona municipalities have already been helping out the state, some contributing funds to assist with park operating costs, others loaning equipment or working to organize volunteer labor pools for park maintenance.

photo courtesy Arizona State Parks

Rim Country Parks & Rec announces new programs

2009-12-28T10:57:00.000-08:00

The Rim Country along the Mogollon Rim along with Arizona Game & Fish announced new classes for 2010 to be held in the Payson Parks & Rec office at: 1000 W. Country Club Drive, Payson.

WATERFOWL 101 with the Arizona Game and Fish department

Join us for this unique seminar provided by the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s Migratory Game Bird Supervisor Mike Rabe on waterfowl natural history and identification. The class will include a slideshow and presentation, followed by identification of waterfowl in Green Valley Park. Participants should bring binoculars if they have them, but extras will be available. Space is limited, so register today!

Dates: Tuesday, January 19 – 3:45-4:45PM

Fee: $5

WILDERNESS FIRST AID certification course

Register with the Payson Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department for the American Red Cross Wilderness First Aid Certification course, held Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 6 and 7 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.. Course participants will learn skills needed to survive in emergency medical situations in the wilderness and obtain a three-year Wilderness First Aid certification upon successful course completion. Register online: www.paysonparks.com, or at the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Office: 1000 W. Country Club Drive, Payson, AZ 85541. Please contact the Parks & Recreation office at 928-474-5242 x 7 for more information.

WATCHABLE WILDLIFE 101 – Wildlife viewing basics

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn where and when to look for wildlife, as well as steps for successful wildlife viewing in the Rim Country from Joe Yarchin, Arizona Game and Fish Urban and Watchable Wildlife Program Manager. Topics to be covered include how to view wildlife responsibly to minimize impact on the animals, the habitat, and other nature enthusiasts.

Date: Wednesday, February 18

Time: 6-7 p.m.

Location: Parks and Recreation Office – 1000 W. Country Club Drive

Fee: $5

Arizona State Parks to close if governor signs bill

2009-12-23T16:13:00.000-08:00

A bill passed this week by the Arizona legislature will lead ultimately to the closure of all state parks, according to the Arizona State Parks Foundation, including those along the Colorado River such as Buckskin Mountain, River Island, Cattail Cove and Lake Havasu State Park - Windsor Beach.

The bill cuts more than $9 million of Parks funds, leaving the agency with only about $10 million in its 2010 budget. That’s less than 30 percent of the agency’s normal funding and not enough to continue park operations beyond this fiscal year.

Arizona Governor Jan Brewer and the Arizona legislature are seeking $205 million in cuts to mitigate a deficit estimated to be $1.5 billion. The Foundation says the proposed cuts to State Parks would provide just 4 percent of their goal, while shutting down the Park’s annual contribution to the Arizona economy of more than $266 million (much of which is generated in busy parks like those in the Parker area).

The cuts will force major reductions in Parks staff and closure of more than half of the State’s 30 parks this fiscal year. The resulting loss of Park revenue is projected to leave the Parks System with no money to start the next fiscal year, July 1, 2010. The next step would be to shut down the entire system and dispose of Parks properties, returning most of them to their original owners.

The Foundation’s website now contains an “urgent call to action”, saying:

If legislatures could keep parks open to Arizonans through 50 years of prior downturns, wars, gas crises and political turmoil, surely current lawmakers can find the revenues to do so–-especially given the great economic value, popularity and intrinsic worth of our state parks.

If you or your children wish to ever visit such extraordinary places like Kartchner Caverns State Park, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, or Tubac Presidio State Historic Park, you must act today. It is our last hope.

According to the Foundation, the last hope for keeping State Parks open is a line-by-line veto by Governor Brewer of the Parks cuts in the bill. They are appealing to the Governor to do this and ask that the public do the same.

Tonto Natural Bridge State Park

2009-12-18T15:53:00.000-08:00

Tucked away in a tiny valley surrounded by a forest of pine trees, Tonto Natural Bridge State Park has been in the making for thousands of years. It is believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world, standing 183 feet high over a 400-foot long tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.

The discovery of the small and beautiful valley between Pine and Payson was documented in 1877 by David Gowan, a prospector who stumbled across the bridge as he was chased by Apaches. Gowan hid for two nights and three days in one of several caves that dot the inside of the bridge. On the third day, he left the cave to explore the tunnel and green valley surrounding it. Gowan then claimed squatter's rights.

In 1898 he persuaded his nephew, David Gowan Goodfellow, to bring his family over from Scotland and settle the land permanently. After a week of difficult travel from Flagstaff, the Goodfellows arrived at the edge of the mountain and lowered their possessions down the 500 foot slopes into the valley by ropes and burros.

Today, visitors can stand on top of the bridge or hike down below to capture the true size and beauty of this geologic wonder. There are no campground facilities in the park but it is surrounded by natural forest where you can boondock or head for a national forest campground on route 260 east of Payson or continue up to the Mogollon Rim.

Free RV camping near Lake Havasu City

2009-12-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

With plenty of beautiful water for recreation and a warm winter climate, it's no wonder that Arizona's Lake Havasu City is so popular with the RV set. There are state parks and RV resorts a'plenty in the area--of course, all come with a price. If you're looking for a free place to park the rig, don't miss out on the Craggy Wash campground, just north the the city airport, courtesy of the Bureau of Land Management.

Craggy Wash is probably best described as that: Craggy. It's a rough and tumble environment, just perfect for a bit of four-wheeling, and plenty of area to boondock with your RV. If you're not familiar with the boondocking concept, it calls for self-containment. There are no hookups at Craggy Wash, no places to dump your garbage or your holding tanks. It's strictly a "come prepared," and "pack it in, pack it out" ethic at rule.

Some old timers lament that the BLM has changed the camping layout. Rather than finding a place to stay up close to Highway 95, you'll now have to drive back from the highway just about a mile before you shake off the "No Camping" signs that the agency recently posted. The first camp area is in a large flat, surrounded by rocky pinnacles, and inhabited by dozens of RVs of every shape and description. If having too much company, too close gives you claustrophobia, fear not. Just keep driving past the flat, and within a quarter to a half mile, the traffic drops off dramatically and you'll find plenty of little out-of-the-way places you can put in and find peace and quiet.

Good resource about Yuma RV parks

2009-12-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

Yuma is a very popular winter destination for RVers. While the top part of the USA and much of Canada is chilly or downright cold, Yuma is generally warm and sunny. RV parks in Yuma fill up, so it's always best to make a reservation as soon as you know when you'll be there. He is a good web resource for locating and learning about RV parks in Yuma and the nearby area.

Fees going up at Arizona State Parks

2009-12-14T20:38:00.000-08:00

Fees will increase March 1, 2010 for accessing the 30 Arizona State Parks. The revised fee schedule keeps the Premium Annual Pass which allows full access on weekends at the river parks, but increases the fee from $125 to $200. The Standard Annual Entrance Pass which allows access to all the parks, but not weekends on the river, will increase from $50 to $75.

In addition there will be increases for day-use and camping fees at the state parks including an increase at Lake Havasu and Cattail Cove State Parks for day-use on weekends and state holidays from $10 to $15. For a complete listing of the fee changes and amenities at state parks, statewide hiking opportunities, off-highway vehicle trails, and other outdoor recreational and cultural opportunities in Arizona visit AZStateParks.com.

Photo: Buckskin Mountain State Park

New site helps find Arizona RV parks and campgrounds

2009-12-14T11:17:00.000-08:00

In a move to provide RVers with updated and more complete information, The Arizona Association of RV Parks and Campgrounds has expanded its website to provide added information on RV parks in the state. The revised site also will make it more accessible to smart phone users.

The original site had only a paragraph of description for each park, but now includes a full-page display for each park with photos, a search element to help find parks based on their proximity to cities, highways, and attractions.

The website is at www.azarvc.com.

Record striper caught at Lake Pleasant

2009-12-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Put these three things together, pouring rain in the Arizona desert, alone on Lake Pleasant near Phoenix during the downpour, and fishing gear in your hands, and you too might have John Davis's mojo.

Arizona Game and Fish officials say Davis, a Phoenix angler, caught an inland state record striper at Lake Pleasant, 30 miles north of Phoenix. They say the striper Davis reeled in on Dec. 7 weighed 28.58 pounds and measured 45.7 inches.

Davis says he was fishing in torrential rain at the time and he was the only angler on the lake. Davis says he caught about 50 other stripers during his daylong fishing trip and released almost all of them.

Oh--and Lake Pleasant has a large campground that will fit even large rigs, including primitive to full hook-up sites. Get your fishing gear out and get moving.

Tucson's white dove of the desert: Mission San Xavier del Bac

2009-12-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

If you are a history buff you know that in the West, unlike along the eastern seaboard or New England, you don’t see many historic sites chronicling European exploration with dates in the early 1600s or early 1700s.
Father Kino, one of the first Spanish missionaries, visited the O’odham community of Wa:k (Bac), south of what is now Tucson, in 1692. Father Alonso Espinosa attempted building a rustic church in 1700 but it was 1756 before he began building the first church of any substance. Father Francisco Garces arrived in 1768 as its first minister.

The current structure, though added to and rebuilt over the years, was begun in 1776 and wasn’t completed until 1797. It is an outstanding example of Spanish baroque architecture, with elegant arches, domes, twin bell towers (one left unfinished), and inside a priceless collection of Mexican baroque art, frescoes, and wooden carvings.

An ongoing process of restoration begun in the early 1990s is returning some of the luster to the 200-year-old art. San Xavier’s dazzling white walls have given it the name “The White Dove of the Desert,” and it still serves the Tohono O’odham today with daily masses.

There is plenty of parking for large rigs. Photography is permitted when services are not in progress. Drive nine miles south of Tucson on I-19 and take exit 92. Turn west for one mile. The church is open daily 8AM to 6PM. Admission is free and donations are accepted.

Bullhead City RV parks nearly booked for winter

2009-12-04T09:23:00.000-08:00

Most RV parks in the Bullhead City, Ariz., area are already filled up for the winter according to a survey by the Mohave Daily News. “We're booked, especially after the first of the year,” Paddy Oliver of the El Rio Waterfront Resort told the newspaper. She said the average stay at her resort for winter visitors is about two months and is popular with Canadians.

“We've been full for about a month,” said Melanie Shetley, manager of the Mirage RV Resort. She said the average stay for snowbirds at her park is five months. Most other parks are already filled as well, some booked for as long as six months. Some parks report slight declines from last year.

But overall the picture is bright, according to Connie Fields, tourism specialist with the Bullhead Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center. “Since the beginning of October, they have been coming in. As soon as it starts to get freezing or snow they come,” she said.

Bullhead City is across the Colorado River from Laughlin, Nev., and its casino row alongside the river. Its mild winter temperatures make it a favorite destination for seasonal visitors in RVs.

Prescott's Sharlot Hall Museum illustrates AZ Territorial history

2009-12-02T08:57:00.000-08:00

A few short blocks from the plaza in downtown Prescott, the Sharlot Hall Museum’s assemblage of historic buildings, permanent collections, and changing exhibits--the largest museum complex in central Arizona--illustrates the early Wild West days of Prescott and the Arizona Territory. The museum staff, actors, and volunteers present a variety of live programs such as festivals, theatre performances, and living history reenactments that depict the area’s rich regional heritage.

The Governor’s “Mansion,” which housed the first territorial governor, is no more than a rustic cabin, but a mansion by mid-1860’s standards compared to the tents, wagons, and crude cabins in which the rest of Prescott’s citizens lived. It was built on this site in 1864 from Ponderosa pine logs cut in the surrounding forest. Sharlot Hall moved into the mansion at 415 West Gurley Street in 1927 and opened it as a museum a year later.

Additional museum buildings include the Fremont House built in 1875, home of John Charles Fremont while he served as Arizona’s fifth Territorial Governor; the Victorian Bashford House; and Fort Misery built in 1863-64--the oldest standing log building in the Arizona Territory.

Scattered around the museum grounds you will find replicas of a typical ranch house and schoolhouse of the period, an authentic 1885 iron turbine windmill relocated from a local ranch, a vehicle collection featuring Sharlot Hall’s 1927 Star, and a variety of gardens including the Rose Garden with over 260 rose bushes honoring Arizona’s pioneer women.

New free Arizona fishing guide

2009-12-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

Arizona Game and Fish has created a new attractive, high quality fishing guide book designed to make it easier to figure out where to fish, when to fish, how to fish, what to fish with, and much more. Major changes from the 2009 booklet include: a 2010 fish stocking calendar, all new lake and park maps, listings of family-friendly park amenities, and a fishing equipment checklist to help get you started. The 2010 Guidebooks will be available for free from Game and Fish Department offices, sporting goods stores, and retail license dealers by December 15.

AZ Game and Fish seeks public comment

2009-11-30T16:05:00.000-08:00

The Arizona Game and Department will hold a series of public meetings and accept public comment as part of an effort to update and revise Arizona's State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP).

The plan outlines strategies and conservation actions aimed at promoting partnerships and coordinating efforts among all who hold a stake in conserving Arizona's wildlife. As such, the plan addresses the full array of wildlife and habitats but focuses on identifying and managing the “wildlife and biotic communities of greatest conservation need.”

A public meeting will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 15, at the Arizona Game and Fish Department Kingman regional office, 5325 N. Stockton Hill Road where you can be heard.

For over a decade, a coalition of more than 3,000 conservation organizations known as “Teaming With Wildlife” has labored to keep species from becoming endangered by increasing state and federal funding for wildlife conservation.

Yuma is ground zero for great bird watching

2009-11-29T06:16:00.001-08:00

The annual southern migration of RV snowbirds has begun. And one of the most popular destinations is Yuma, a warm wintertime hotspot at the southwest corner of Arizona.

For some of these human snowbirds, watching real birds is a popular pastime. And lucky for them, they are close to ground zero for some great viewing opportunities.

The Imperial National Wildlife Refuge, Kofa's Palm Canyon, Betty's Kitchen Wildlife and Interpretive Area, and Cibola National Wildlife Refuge offer diverse and picturesque terrain that attract more than 380 species of birds. Hundreds of species of birds winter in this region, while countless others make it their home year round. Egrets and herons are commonly seen, as are migrating shorebirds and waterfowl. For the more adventurous, a day of hiking in Palm Canyon can bring into view shrikes, three species of wrens, white-collared swifts performing their acrobatics in the narrow canyon, and high above, red-tail hawks or a golden eagle occasionally soar into view.

CANADA GOOSE DRIVE
Cibola National Wildlife Refuge has established the Canada Goose Drive, a four-mile drive offering close views of wintering waterfowl, as well as great looks at sandhill cranes. Betty's Kitchen provides a site for easy viewing (especially migrating warblers) while taking a comfortable walk along a well maintained trail. The Imperial National Wildlife Refuge is an important wintering area to Canadian geese and many species of ducks.

Learn more about combining RVing with birdwatching.

Arizona's wooden 'bridges' spanned the sand

2009-11-26T13:25:00.000-08:00

At the turn of the twentieth century, when auto travel was becoming the rage, Yuma, Ariz., was at a crossroads but with a big obstacle to the west: sand dunes -- vast sand dunes.

The Algodones Dunes stretch more than 40 miles. Throughout history, travel of any nature was severely inhibited by this great barrier. Explorers, wagon freighters and stagecoaches approaching and leaving Yuma Crossing avoided the dunes by traveling north or south. With the building of Yuma's Ocean to Ocean highway in 1915, a way had to be found for automobiles to cross the vast expanse of sand. A wooden plank road seemed the answer.

The first such road was constructed in 1915 and was rapidly replaced by a second one in 1916. The San Diego Chamber of Commerce, eager for the business the road could bring, donated 13,100 oak planks. The second road was built in eight-foot by twelve-foot sections and reinforced with strap iron along the edges and centers. The speed limit was 10 miles per hour.

It wasn't much of a road -- a 6.7 mile one-laner with pullouts for passing. During sandstorms, the road could become impassable, forcing motorists to wait. But sandstorm or not, it was always a rocky ride, earning the road the nickname "Old Shaky."

In 1925, traffic increased to 30 cars per day -- a problem; officials reacted by regulating the traffic: east-bound traffic would leave on even hours, westbound traffic on odd hours. But this wasn't enough: after 10 years of use, the road was falling apart and traffic jams were frequent and sometimes nasty when the right-of-way was disputed. On August 11, 1926, the opening of paved, two-lane California State Route 80 put an end to travel on the wooden plank road. Today, motorists speed across on Interstate 8.

A good place to see a piece of plank road is at Yuma Crossing State Park in Yuma, where a lone section of the old road has been preserved, complete with a 1909 Model T right on top.

Don't miss the beauty under Arizona

2009-11-25T09:47:00.000-08:00

New (and some old) Arizona RV snowbirds often wonder: What's there to do in this big country? With cactuses and old mining sites abounding above ground, you may forget to look down -- not for rattlesnakes, but for caves. Just off south east Arizona's Interstate 10 you'll find some of the most spectacular underground scenery like you've never seen before at Karchner Caverns.

Back in the 1970s, two young cave explorers were poking around in a big sinkhole near Benson, Arizona. A blast of warm air emanating from a crack in the sinkhole led them into a huge limestone cavern filled with thrilling sights: Unusual limestone formations, apparently unseen by human eyes, perhaps forever. They held the cave a secret for many years, finally bringing the property owners in on their find. Eventually a deal was banged out with Arizona State Parks, who purchased the property, and carefully protected their new asset until they could be developed in a way that would safeguard the cavern's outstanding features.

These caverns are "living," in that the growth of limestone formations is still ongoing. The slow, steady drip of mineral bearing water over the centuries has slowly built up formations. And they are truly outstanding--you may have seen stalactites and stalagmites before, but have you ever seen a turnip shield? How about birdsnest needle quartz?

If you're in the area in the "off season" of June to early September, yuou can reap real tour bargains. The one and a half hour tour is well worth the regular admission price. Adding a big discount is just icing on the--cavern.

photos: Top by Mike Lewis under Creative Commons license--you are free to share and make derivative works of the file under the conditions that you appropriately attribute it, and that you distribute it only under a license identical to this one. Official license. Bottom: R&T DeMaris

Where is this lighthouse?

2009-11-24T21:33:00.000-08:00

Where was this photo taken? It's in Arizona, we'll tell you that much. But where? Along what body of water? Near what town? If you are the first to tell us, we'll send you a copy of the "The Greatest DVD on Quartzsite," a wonderful DVD available from RVbookstore.com.

UPDATE: We have a winner, Robert Maurer, who noted that this lighthouse replica on the shore of Lake Havasu, just a few hundred yards from the town's famous London Bridge, is a replica of the East Quoddy Head in New Brunswick, Canada, as seen in the photo to the left.

Most of Arizona's highway rest areas now closed

2009-11-24T17:37:00.000-08:00

RVers in Arizona or headed there may find their favorite highway rest areas closed. The Arizona Department of Transporation (ADOT) has temporarily suspended operations at 13 of its 18 highway rest areas.

Declining transportation revenues resulting from the weakened economy and the state budget shortfall have caused a reduction in ADOT's budget by nearly 25 percent this fiscal year. ADOT said that temporarily suspending operations at the 13 rest areas will allow it to reallocate funds to focus on roadways first. The status of the rest areas will be assessed in June.

Grand Canyon north rim to close Monday for winter

2009-11-24T10:02:00.000-08:00

Arizona State Route 67, leading to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, will close for the season on Monday, November 30, 2009. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, the road could be closed earlier if heavy snows occur in the area prior to the closure date.

Most facilities at the North Rim closed on October 15. However, scenic roadways and overlooks, as well as pay-at-the-pump fuel services, camping, backcountry permitting, and gift and bookstores have remained open in order to provide basic services until the road closes for the season.

State Route 67 and all services on the North Rim are expected to re-open for the 2010 season on May 15, 2010. Facilities on the South Rim and in the inner canyon remain open year-round.

Books and DVDs about the Grand Canyon at RVbookstore.com.

Lots of space to camp "on the cheap" in Arizona

2009-11-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year when tens of thousands of RVer begin to migrate to Arizona to escape chilly northern temperatures in favor of milder ones and sunshine in Arizona. Bookings at Arizona RV park and resorts are way up this year, so RVers who plan to arrive later should make their space reservations right away.

Lucky for RVers, though, there are millions of acres of public lands in the state, most administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Some RVers bypass conventional RV parks and campgrounds to boondock on these public lands for free or less than a dollar a day in Long Term Visitor Areas. Perhaps the most popular long term camping areas are on BLM lands near Quartzsite.

A good source of information about places where RVers can stay for free or less than $10 is at FreeCampgrounds.com.

Learn more about "Boondocking" in Arizona and the Southwest at RVbookstore.com.

Photo: Boondocking on public lands near Quartsite, Arizona.