This Historic Park Is One Of Arizona's Best Kept Secrets
By Katie Lawrence|Updated on June 13, 2024(Originally published September 02, 2021)
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
There are more historic sites and hidden gems in Arizona than we could ever attempt to count, and some of them are intertwined with nature in a truly beautiful way. Dead Horse Ranch State Park, nestled just outside Old Town Cottonwood, is one such place. From the unique story behind its (admittedly macabre) name to the century-old jailhouse that sits near one of the trailheads, this underrated oasis is one of Arizona’s best-kept secrets. Just wait until you see all the outdoor activities you can enjoy!
We fully understand why you might not be eager to visit a place called "Dead Horse Ranch," but this state historic park is bucket-list-worthy in more ways than one.
It all started with the Ireys family, who traveled from Minnesota to Arizona in the 1940s in search of a ranch to buy. At one of the ranches they visited, a dead horse was discovered lying on the side of the road - and, as it turned out, that ranch was the family favorite. Both the kids and parents agreed on the name "Dead Horse Ranch," and the rest was history. When the family sold the park to the State of Arizona in 1973, they did so under one condition: the name must not be changed. Their wish was granted, ensuring the somewhat morbid joke would live on forever.
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Also known as the "Gateway to the Verde River," the park is situated directly on a rocky floodplain.
The Old Town Jail Trail parallels the waterfront, taking hikers on an easy stroll beginning in the parking lot for the century-old jailhouse that's become a Cottonwood landmark. From there, you'll trek through a lush riparian forest all the way to the river's edge before either heading further into the park or looping back towards Old Town Cottonwood.
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There are countless other trails in the park to explore, ranging in length from just a quarter-mile to more than 20 miles.
Difficulty levels vary, ensuring all ages and skill levels can enjoy the beautiful surroundings. No two trails are exactly alike, so you can expect to see anything from sweeping views of Mingus Mountain and the Verde Valley to all sorts of native flora and fauna.
Anglers, rejoice! The park boasts three lagoons known for their impressive populations of largemouth bass, rainbow trout, channel catfish, bluegill, green sunfish, and the occasional crappie.
No matter the season, your chances of getting a bite are always high. Even if you don't like to fish, the accessible loop trails meandering around each lagoon make for incredibly peaceful adventures.
Many of the trails are shared-use, meaning pedestrians, cyclists, and horseback riders alike are welcome.
Fully furnished, the cabins include a full-size bed and a twin bunk, a table and chairs, and a dresser. You'll also enjoy electricity, A/C and heat, a barbecue grill, and a picnic table. The nightly rate is $60, plus a $5 reservation fee.
Have you ever been to this historic park in Arizona? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do there? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section, then check out our previous article to learn more about the charming town of Cottonwood.
