The Oracle State Park Rangers have been busy putting in place campsites at the park for public use. They have been grading areas and clearing brush to build the primitive camping sites. These designated areas will allow for overnight camping.
There are plans for 12 to 20 campsites.
A 20 by 20-foot Ramada is being built in the area. Access to picnic tables, Ramadas and restrooms is near the camp site. No fire pits will be allowed. Park rules do not allow wood, charcoal or ground fires.
At the designated camping area, there will be a campsite host to check in campers and monitor the area. The host will be a volunteer who signs up for the season and is allowed to camp for free. A special area is being built near the entrance of the campsite area. Manager of the park, Vince Micallef said that the idea for allowing camping came from numerous hikers who asked about camping while walking the Arizona Trail. The camping area has a short trail which connects to existing hiking trails at the park that connect to the Arizona Trail.
Vince would like to see equestrian groups, mountain bikers, campers and hikers utilize the park and camp sites. The sites will be available to rent for groups and events. To learn more about Oracle State Park, visit their website: azstateparks.com/oracle.