Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park Arizona (AZ) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is an excellent destination for RV campers seeking a unique and fulfilling experience. The park boasts a rich history and cultural significance, having been established in the 1920s by mining magnate Colonel William Boyce Thompson. Its stunning natural beauty is a result of the convergence of three distinct ecological zones: the Sonoran Desert, the Riparian Corridor, and the Upper Sonoran Desert. This convergence has led to the creation of an incredibly diverse range of plant and animal life, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

The park’s weather is typically mild during the winter months, making it an ideal spot for RV camping during this time. However, during the summer, temperatures can soar, so renters should take precautions to ensure they stay cool and hydrated. Some of the activities RV renters can enjoy at the park include hiking, birdwatching, and photography. The park also offers guided tours, allowing visitors to learn more about its history and natural features.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park.

RV Rentals in Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Transportation

When it comes to transportation options for visiting Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park private vehicles are the most convenient way to get around. The park has several entrances and visitors can access them via Highway 60 or Highway 87. RV renters should be aware that there are size restrictions for RVs with a maximum length of 40 feet and a maximum width of 8 feet. Visitors should also note that there are no hookups available for RVs at the park.

RV parking is limited at the Arboretum with only a few designated spots available. Overnight parking for RVs is not allowed outside of the designated campground area. It’s recommended to explore the park using alternative transportation methods such as walking or biking if you plan on camping with an RV.

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park offers walking paths for visitors to explore the park. There are no shuttle buses available. The main trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through the gardens and natural areas. Several shorter trails branch off from the main loop providing opportunities to see different plant species and habitats.

Top Campsites in Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

The most sought-after campsites near Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park are

Lost Dutchman State Park

Famous for its picturesque hiking trails and the legend of the lost gold mine this park boasts 134 campsites suitable for RVs up to 45 feet. Enjoy amenities like electric hookups restrooms showers and a dump station. Pets are welcome and it’s open all year round.

Gold Canyon RV & Golf Resort

Located just 14 miles from the Arboretum this luxurious resort offers 327 sites with full hookups a heated pool hot tub and a 9-hole golf course. It accommodates RVs up to 45 feet and is open all year. Pet-friendly.

Apache Junction KOA

Only 16 miles away this friendly KOA features 102 sites with full hookups a pool hot tub and mini-golf. It’s pet-friendly and open all year and RVs up to 70 feet are welcome.

Canyon Vista RV Resort

A beautiful desert oasis offering 306 sites with full hookups heated pools hot tubs and a fitness center. Located 26 miles from the Arboretum it’s open all year and welcomes pets. RVs up to 70 feet can be accommodated.

For those who prefer first-come-first-served camping consider these options

Four Peaks Campground

Located 16 miles from Boyce Thompson Arboretum this scenic campground has 32 sites for tents and RVs up to 35 feet. It’s open from September to April and is pet-friendly.

Hooligan Campground

Situated 17 miles away this campground features 12 sites suitable for tents and RVs up to 35 feet. It’s open from September to April and allows pets.

Burnt Corral Campground

Set along Apache Lake 30 miles from the Arboretum this campground has 73 sites for tents and RVs up to 35 feet. It’s open all year round and is pet-friendly.

Alternative camping options near Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park include

Private Campgrounds

Enjoy the comforts of privately-owned campgrounds like Schnepf Farms or Superstition Sunrise RV Resort offering various amenities and accommodating different RV sizes.
Backcountry Camping

For a more adventurous experience consider backcountry camping in the Tonto National Forest which surrounds the Arboretum. Obtain a permit and follow the regulations to make the most of your trip.

Hiking Trails at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

The hiking trails at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park are a popular attraction for RV campers who love the great outdoors. With over 5 miles of trails hikers can explore the desert landscape and witness an array of flora and fauna. The Main Trail which is 1.5 miles long is the most popular and offers stunning views of the park’s landmarks such as the Queen Creek and the Picketpost Mountain. The trails are well-marked and suitable for all levels of hikers.

Botanical Gardens and Greenhouses

The botanical gardens and greenhouses at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park are a must-visit for any RV camper. The park is home to over 3 000 plant species from around the world including rare and endangered species. The greenhouses are a great place to learn about the different ecosystems and the importance of conservation. The Cactus and Succulent Garden the Australian Desert and the South American Desert are some of the most popular exhibits.

Bird Watching

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 250 species of birds including hummingbirds hawks and eagles birdwatchers can spend hours observing and photographing these magnificent creatures. The park’s birdwatching trail is a 1-mile loop that takes visitors through various habitats and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Cycling

Cycling is a great way to explore the park’s scenic trails and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. The park’s Main Trail is suitable for cyclists of all levels and offers a relatively easy ride with minimal elevation changes. Cyclists are advised to wear helmets and follow the park’s rules and regulations.

Fishing

Fishing at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a popular activity for RV campers who enjoy the peacefulness of the great outdoors. The park’s Queen Creek is stocked with trout and catfish and fishing is permitted year-round. Visitors are advised to obtain a valid Arizona fishing license before fishing in the park.

Alternative Recreational Activities at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Sightseeing at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape making it a popular destination for sightseeing. The park’s scenic drives such as the Apache Trail and the Picketpost Mountain Road offer stunning vistas of the Superstition Mountains and the Sonoran Desert. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the park to learn about its history and the unique flora and fauna that call it home.

Nature Watching

The park’s diverse ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for nature watching. Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife including mammals reptiles and insects in their natural habitats. The park’s nature trails such as the Demonstration Garden Trail and the Hummingbird Trail offer a closer look at the park’s plant and animal life.

Instagram-Worthy Photo Opportunities

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park is a photographer’s dream with its stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can capture Instagram-worthy photos of the park’s iconic landmarks such as the Queen Creek the Superstition Mountains and the Picketpost Mountain. The park’s botanical gardens and greenhouses also offer excellent opportunities for macro photography.

Picnicking

Picnicking is a popular activity at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park. The park offers several picnic areas complete with tables grills and restrooms. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely lunch in the shade of the park’s trees while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Art and Sculpture Exhibits

Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park features several art and sculpture exhibits that showcase the work of local artists. The park’s Sculpture Garden is home to a collection of sculptures made from natural materials while the Art Gallery features rotating exhibits of paintings photography and mixed media.

Season-specific experiences in Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park

Springtime at Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park brings a flurry of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular attraction is the Desert Legume Garden which showcases a variety of desert-adapted plants that bloom in the spring. Located near the visitor center this garden is a must-see for nature lovers.

Another favorite activity is hiking the Picketpost Trail which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscape. The trailhead is located near the campground making it easily accessible for RV campers.

For history buffs the historic ruins of the Clevenger House are a must-visit. This 1930s-era adobe home is located near the park entrance and offers a glimpse into the area’s past.

Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the spring as the park is home to a variety of bird species including hummingbirds and hawks. The park’s birding trail located near the picnic area is a great spot to see these feathered friends.

Finally the park’s Cactus and Succulent Garden is a highlight for many visitors. This garden features a variety of cacti and succulents from around the world and is located near the visitor center.

Summer is a great time to visit Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park as the weather is warm and the park is bustling with activity. One popular summer activity is swimming in Queen Creek which runs through the park. The creek is located near the picnic area and offers a refreshing break from the summer heat.

Another favorite summer activity is attending the park’s “Summer Saturday Series ” which features a variety of educational programs and guided hikes. These events are held every Saturday during the summer months and are a great way to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna.

For those looking for a more active adventure the park’s High Trail offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. The trailhead is located near the picnic area and is best attempted in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

The park’s butterfly garden is also a popular summer attraction as it is home to a variety of colorful butterflies. The garden is located near the visitor center and is a great spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Finally the park’s “Flashlight Tour” is a unique summer activity that allows visitors to explore the park after dark. The tour is led by a park ranger and offers a chance to see nocturnal animals and experience the park in a whole new way.

In the fall Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park becomes a hub for RV campers seeking out unique recreational activities. One popular pastime is the annual Pumpkin Festival which takes place in October and features a variety of pumpkin-themed activities such as pumpkin carving and a pumpkin patch. The festival is held near the park’s main entrance making it easily accessible for RV campers.

Another must-see attraction is the park’s Fall Color Trail which showcases the vibrant autumn foliage. The trail is located near the High Trailhead and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. Visitors can also take part in guided nature walks which are led by knowledgeable park rangers.

For history buffs the park’s historic Picketpost House is a must-visit. The house which was built in the 1920s offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in the area. It is located near the park’s visitor center and is open for self-guided tours.

Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the fall as the park is home to a diverse range of bird species. The best place to go birdwatching is near the park’s Agua Fria River where visitors can spot species such as the vermilion flycatcher and the black-chinned hummingbird.

Lastly the park’s Desert Lake Trail is a great option for those looking to get some exercise. The trail is located near the park’s main entrance and offers a moderate hike with beautiful views of the desert landscape.

During the winter months Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers. One of the most popular is the annual Winter Festival which takes place in December and features holiday-themed activities such as caroling and hot cocoa. The festival is held near the park’s main entrance and is easily accessible for RV campers.

Another must-see attraction is the park’s Holiday Lights Display which features thousands of twinkling lights and festive decorations. The display is located near the park’s visitor center and is open for self-guided tours.

For those looking to get some exercise the park’s High Trailhead offers a variety of hiking trails that are suitable for all skill levels. The trails offer beautiful views of the surrounding desert landscape and are a great way to get some fresh air.

Birdwatching is also a popular activity in the winter as the park is home to a diverse range of bird species. The best place to go birdwatching is near the park’s Agua Fria River where visitors can spot species such as the bald eagle and the American wigeon.

Lastly the park’s Desert Lake Trail is a great option for those looking for a peaceful stroll. The trail is located near the park’s main entrance and offers a leisurely walk with beautiful views of the desert landscape.

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CODE: RVTHEREYET at checkout
(Limited to Spring promotion only)
10% OFF RV Rental*