Have you visited or you’re planning a visit to Cave Creek Regional Park? Here are 5 tips before visiting Cave Creek Regional Park.
So, you’ve got the day off and you want to get outside. Where to go? In Arizona, it could take you all day just to decide which park you want to visit! If you’re near the Phoenix area and are looking to hike, bike, or horse ride but would like to avoid the large crowds often found in larger parks, try checking out Cave Creek Regional Park. This Maricopa County park is close enough to the city for an afternoon trip, but also offers visitors a serene getaway experience free of traffic and swaths of tourists.
Read on to learn about what Cave Creek Regional Park is known for, the must-see spots, available hiking trails, entrance fees and opening hours, camping information, and nearby accommodations.
1. What is Cave Creek Known For
Cave Creek Regional Park can be found just north of Phoenix within the depths of the upper Sonoran Desert. This 2,922-acre park was established as part of Maricopa County’s Regional Park System back in 1963. Today, the park is best known by locals and outdoor enthusiasts because of its rich history, many multipurpose trails, and large picnic area.
History
The Cave Creek area was named for the small stream that flows down the hills and through the area to Paradise Valley. This stream was named for a cave found along its bank where people — from Ancient Hohokam Indians to European settlers — have taken shelter for centuries.
Cave Creek Regional Park and its surrounding area are rich with archeological history. Dozens of prehistoric sites have been discovered and many more remain undisturbed to this day. Visitors can learn more about the rich history of the land and see historic artifacts at the park’s nature center!
Hiking, Biking, and Horseback Riding Trails
Cave Creek offers eight scenic trails of varying difficulty levels that are open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians unless otherwise marked. All trailheads are easily accessible from the inside of the park.
For visitors who would like to experience horseback riding but don’t own their own horses, there is an affordable vendor onsite that offers trail rides for the whole family from 60 minutes and up.
Picnicking
If you’re making a trip to Cave Creek Regional Park, be sure to bring your picnic basket! The park has a lovely day-use picnic area, as well as four ramadas that are intended for large group gatherings. Cave Creek’s day-use picnic area offers visitors 51 individual picnic sites. Each of these provides a table and a barbecue grill. Drinking water and restrooms are available in the Day-Use Area and sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Large groups and pre-planned events are encouraged to utilize Cave Creek’s four large ramadas. These covered picnic areas are complete with picnic tables, barbecue grills, drinking water, electricity, fire pits, and playgrounds nearby. While pre-planned events should consider contacting Cave Creek Regional Park to reserve a ramada in advance, the structures are otherwise available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
2. Top Spots to See in Cave Creek
Cave Creek Clay Mine
Cave Creek Regional Park is surrounded by hills that were home to gold seekers in the late 1800s. Several of the park’s trails travel to these sites and give visitors an opportunity to travel back in time, contemplating those settlers who came to this land long before them. Cave Creek park rangers also regularly offer a Clay Mine hike and program that highlights the history of this historic mine and how its contents were used medicinally back in the day. Park rangers supply guests with hard hats and recommend bringing your own water, flashlights, and close-toed shoes.
Nature Center
The park’s nature center is a must-see spot, and not just because of the stocked gift shop! Swing by to view live snakes and historical artifacts on display. If you have ever wondered what scorpions and rattlesnakes eat, be sure to ask a park ranger about the “Feeding Frenzy” events offered several times a month. Other exciting ranger-led activities include free monthly Archery 101 lessons and stargazing.
3. Hiking/Trails Information
Cave Creek boasts nearly 15 miles of beautiful hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails in the scenic upper Sonoran Desert. After enduring some intense elevation gains, visitors will be treated to astonishing views of the surrounding area. Park trails range in length and difficulty from 0.2 miles to 5.8 miles.
For families who are looking to enjoy an easy and low-key hike, we recommend the 1.6 mile Slate Trail. If you are hoping to set out on a more difficult hike that will get your heart rate pumping, try out the 5.8 mile Go John Trail. Cave Creek’s 1.4-mile Quartz Loop is another great option for anyone hoping for great views without too much hard work.
All trails are multi-use unless otherwise designated. Remember that weather can change quickly in Arizona. It’s best to always carry plenty of water and let someone know where you are going, whether hiking alone or in a small group.
4. Park and Camping Information
Park Hours and Entrance Fees
Cave Creek Regional Park is open year-round from 6:00 am – 8:00 pm Sundays through Thursdays, and 6:00 am – 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Visit the park website to learn more about entrance fees.
Camping Information
Cave creek is a phenomenal choice for those looking to spend a night or two camping out. The park’s Family Campground consists of 55 individual campsites for tent or RV camping. Each site comes with water and electrical hookups, a picnic table, and a fire pit with barbeque racks. Cave Creek Regional Park’s campground also hosts clean restrooms with flushing toilets and hot water. Camping reservations can be made through the Maricopa County Parks website.
Please note that Cave Creek Regional Park no longer has a Group Campground and does not offer backcountry camping opportunities.
5. Where To Stay
For those who would like to spend a weekend in north Maricopa county but aren’t looking to camp out, Phoenix serves as a great home base while exploring the area. If you hop on south I-17 from Cave Creek Regional Park, you’ll be in Phoenix with a plethora of hotels and restaurants at your fingertips in under half an hour.
If you’re looking to spend a peaceful afternoon or weekend away from the bustle of the city, but aren’t looking to waste half of your day in the car, Cave Creek Regional Park is a great choice to consider. Visitors can spend their morning at the nature center, enjoy an afternoon picnic lunch, and end their day on the trails at sunset or by signing up for a guided trail ride on horseback. No matter how you spend the day, you’re sure to enjoy it!
