Oracle State Park

Hours: Oracle State Park is a large wildlife sanctuary in Southern Arizona, covering nearly 5,000 acres of high desert land. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking on a trail network that runs through the scenic terrain and along the well-known Arizona Trail. The park offers a chance to see local wildlife such as coues whitetail deer and javelina. The historic Kannally Ranch House adds a special touch, allowing visitors to learn about ranch life and view artwork from the Kannally family. A highlight of the park is its dark sky, making it one of the best places to stargaze. Visitors often see the Milky Way and shooting stars with the naked eye, especially during new moon nights. The park’s dark sky status makes it an ideal spot for viewing the night sky and capturing long exposure photos using a tripod. There are two main parking areas, one near the entrance connecting to Granite Overlook and another near the ranch house that links to the Nature Loop trail. The Nature Loop offers beautiful views, mountain scenery, and a short walk to old ranch structures, with benches along the way for relaxing. The Granite Overlook trail, however, was less appealing due to bugs and lack of amenities. Overall, the park provides well-maintained trails, scenic vistas, and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Oracle, Arizona