Oracle State Park Is A Little-Known Park In Arizona That Is Perfect For Your Next Outing
By Katie Lawrence|Published August 10, 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).
Arizona boasts a whopping 31 state parks, so it only makes sense for some to fly under the radar. Oracle State Park is one you don’t hear much about, but we’re on a mission to change that. With some of the darkest skies in the nation, a plethora of scenic hiking trails, and a rich, well-preserved history, this underrated place is ideal for your next outing.
Situated on 4,000 sprawling acres in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, Oracle State Park is both a wildlife refuge and a designated International Dark Sky Park.
Oracle State Park began as a mere 160-acre family ranch, and this Mediterranean Revival cottage was their home in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Today, self-guided tours offer a unique glimpse into early 20th-century life in the southern Arizona high desert, with period artwork, antique furniture, and other relics from the era on display.
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When you're ready to hit the trail, boundless adventure awaits.
You'll see all sorts of species native to the Arizona desert, including white-tailed deer, coyote, javelina, mountain lions, birds, and so many other amazing creatures.
Perhaps the greatest draw factor of Oracle State Park is its International Dark Sky Status awarded in 2014.
Far enough away from light pollution that the Milky Way is visible (along with many other celestial bodies), the park is an idyllic place to go stargazing.
Have you ever been to Oracle State Park? If so, we’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments section. Tell us your thoughts, then check out our previous article for more underrated parks in Arizona.
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