There are more than 30 state parks in Arizona, but some are more popular than others. Iconic destinations like the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park draw thousands of visitors every year, but what about Arizona’s lesser-known parks? I will always opt for a quiet trail over a popular tourist destination, and if you’re anything like me, you do too. Here are some of the quietest parks in Arizona and some of the best trails to take to escape the crowds. 

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1. Petrified Forest National Park

Known for its Triassic fossils, the Petrified Forest National Park is a perfect place to escape the crowds. It’s one of the least visited parks in Arizona, but don’t let that deter you—there are plenty of stunning sights to see. There are several trails within Petrified Forest National Park, and all of them are under five miles. The Crystal Forest Trail is a short and sweet paved trail that’s both family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging, try the Historic Blue Forest Trail (2.4 miles) the Painted Desert Rim Trail (1.2 miles), or even the Onyx Bridge Trail (4 miles).

You can also drive straight through the park! The Petrified Forest Scenic Drive is a 28-mile scenic drive from the north entrance to the south entrance.

2. Buckskin Mountain State Park

Sitting pretty right on the Arizona/California border, Buckskin Mountain State Park is a surprisingly underrated state park in Arizona. The park is nestled along the Colorado River between the Parker and Headgate Dams, and it’s a perfect spot for some aquatic adventure. 

If fishing, boating, or swimming isn’t in the cards, check out one of the many hiking trails at Buckskin Mountain State Park. The Buckskin Trail, in particular, is a 1.5-mile loop that you might find you have all to yourself!

3. River Island State Park

As its name would suggest, River Island State Park is a great park for all things water-related. Swimming, boating, and fishing are all favorite pastimes here, and it’s also one of the best places for tubing in Arizona. 

The Wedge Hill Trail is an easy one-mile hike overflowing with scenic lookouts. There are a few steep sections, but overall, this is a fairly easy trail just about anyone can accomplish. The trail is dog-friendly; just make sure to keep your dog on a leash.

4. Homolovi State Park

Homolovi State Park is a hidden gem. Boasting more than 300 Ancestral Puebloan archaeological sites, this 4,500-acre state park offers the chance to view two of the seven Homolovi ruins. 

Six miles of dirt roads meander throughout the park. Hikers, cyclists, and equestrians are welcome to explore these trails, just keep in mind that there is no shade.

Visitors to this remote state park in Arizona are likely to come across pottery shards, flint scrapers, and other remnants of the past. We’d like to remind you that removing or damaging any artifacts or rock art is prohibited by State and Federal laws. Leave it alone.

5. Lyman Lake State Park

Lyman Lake State Park is known for its waterfront activities. The 1,500-acre lake is a great spot for boating (there is no size restriction on boats), but there are plenty of opportunities to ditch the crowds. The Buffalo Trail is an easy out-and-back trail that’s just shy of two miles long, and it’s dog-friendly!

There are some rocky steps and generally steep sections, so make sure you’ve come prepared with the proper footwear. As you’re on the trail, keep an eye out for petroglyphs. If you’re looking for a place that makes you feel like you’re the only one for miles, this is the trail for you. 

Share this article with someone you want to tackle one of these quiet state parks with. Read on to check out our ultimate guide to state parks in Arizona.