Be Outdoors Arizona

Bird Walk At San Pedro House
2025-04-02 07:00 - 10:00 (America/Phoenix) | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
The San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area (SPRNCA) provides habitat for over 100 species of breeding birds. The San Pedro River is also a critical avian migration corridor that provides water, food, and shelter for another 250 migratory and wintering birds. Novice and experienced bird watchers attend our bird walks to view the diverse avian community of the SPRNCA. We usually observe 30-60 species on these popular two-to-three-hour walks. Bring water, a hat, and binoculars. All are welcome, but the walks may not be suitable for young children. These walks can be moderately difficult on uneven terrain. No dogs, please. All walks are free, no reservations required. Meet at the San Pedro House, 9800 E. Highway 90. For more information, call (520) 508-4445 or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org. Hosted by the Friends of the San Pedro River.

Wednesday Trap Shooting
2025-04-02 08:00 - 10:00
Open to guests and members of the Wickenburg Sportsmen club. Wickenburg Sportsmen’s Club is a 501 C7 nonprofit social club where our members and their guest enjoy organized sporting events, potlucks and campfires. We promote organized sporting events with a focus on safety and sportsmanship. Events are for recreation, there are NO prizes. There is a registration fee for most event
Nonmembers are welcome to participate in our scheduled events

Daily Guided Nature Hikes
2025-04-02 09:00 - 10:30 | Red Rock State Park, 4050 Red Rock Loop Rd, Sedona, AZ, 86336, United States
Every morning, a volunteer naturalist leads a guided nature walk informing visitors about the different life zones of Red Rock State Park. The subjects discussed on this walk may include geology, wildlife, history, archeology, and plant life. The naturalists welcome questions during the walk, enhancing the learning experience.
Hikes are included with park entrance fees but are first-come, first-serve

Meet the Snakes
2025-04-02 15:30 - 16:00 | Chandler Nature Center, 4050 E Chandler Heights Rd, Chandler, AZ 85249, USA
Get up close and personal with Bob the Gopher Snake and Elvis the King Snake. Learn fun facts about these fascinating reptiles along with proper handling. Drop in the first Wednesday and Friday of the month to Meet the Snakes.

Estrella Mountain Regional Park - Invasive Species Removal
2025-04-03 07:00 - 10:30 | Estrella Mountain Regional Park, 14805 W Vineyard Ave, Goodyear, AZ, United States
Participants will learn to identify several invasive species, their phenology and characteristics, and how to remove these invasive plants effectively. The goal is to remove invasive plants as a proactive step towards ecological restoration and to reduce wildfire risk.
To learn more about the Desert Defender Program, visit https://www.maricopacountyparks.net/about-us/desertdefenders/.
Please bring work gloves, water, and a snack. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, pants, and closed-toed shoes.
Participants must be 13 years or older to participate in these events. If you are 13-17, you will need to be accompanied by an adult, or you will need to be accompanied by a waiver and transportation provided by an adult.
Note: If less than three people register for each event, we reserve the right to cancel at least one day before. If canceled, email notifications will go to the registrants.

Prepare for May Fishing Trip on San Juan River
2025-04-03 07:00 - 21:00 | Arizona American Italian Club, 7509 N 12th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020, USA
At the start of April, we’ll show you how to prepare for a fishing trip on the San Juan River in May. Fishing experts will go over maps of the river and find the most productive locations and holes to fish. Learn the tips and tricks on how to find the most fish in the San Juan River.

Talk with a Paleontologist at Petrified Forest National Park
2025-04-03 09:00 - 15:00 | Painted Desert Visitor Center, PO Box 2217 1 Park Road, Petrified Forest National Park, 86028, United States
Watch and interact with fossil preparators as they prepare paleontological specimens found throughout Petrified Forest National Park. Open to the public every Thursday, everyone is invited to observe this fascinating and painstaking process, ask questions, and learn more about the fossils found here. All ages are welcome.
Located on the northeast side of the Painted Desert Visitor Center’s plaza; follow the signs through the breezeway to the freeway side of the building.

Biking in the White Mountains - Thursdays
2025-04-03 09:00 - 22:30 | FR 185 and FS 283
Bikes need to be in condition and ready to ride. Helmets are required. Our rides are social, not competitive, with distances determined by the leader and depending on who shows up. If you are not yet on the mountain bike list, please send an email to Suzanne Milligan at suzanne.milligan@yahoo.com.

NatureSTEAM – Science & Art Activities by Pinetop-Lakeside Public Library
2025-04-03 13:15 - 14:45 | White Mountain Nature Center, 20304 W White Tank Mountain Rd, Waddell, AZ, 85355, United States
Join us every Thursday for nature-based science and art activities at the Nature Center! For elementary kids aged 6-11. Parent or Guardian must attend.

Riparian Photopoint Refresher Session for Experienced Photopoint Volunteers
2025-04-03 18:30 - 19:30
This session is specifically for those who have done this project before. If you are new to the project, please sign up for one of the training sessions for new folks.
This is an online Zoom training session. Fill out and submit the Registration Form below, and you will receive an invitation.
Riparian Photopoint Registration Form

Usery Mountain Regional Park Invasive Species Removal
2025-04-04 07:00 - 10:30 | Usery Mountain Regional Park, 3939 N Usery Pass Rd, Mesa, AZ, United States

White Tank Mountain Regional Park Invasive Species Removal
2025-04-04 07:00 - 10:30 | White Tank Mountain Regional Park, 8698 White Tanks Vista Ct, Waddell, AZ, United States

Raz the Haz in the Mazatzal - The Park 2025
2025-04-04 08:00 - 2025-04-07 14:00 | Passage 23, in the Mazatzal Wilderness Region, United States
Please join the ATA April 4-7 on Passage 23, in the Mazatzal Wilderness Region near Pine for a trail work event. This project is rated strenuous. This 4-day project will focus on brushing and drainage work. This is a backcountry event – see the full event description for more details. For more information or to register for the event, visit our volunteer portal here.

AZ Native Plant Society Tonto Basin Chapter Year End Meeting
2025-04-04 10:00 - 13:30 | 268 E Stephens Way, Tonto Basin, AZ, United States
Meeting Highlights:
10am: Wildflower Adventures
11:30am: Potluck Picnic
12:15pm: Tonto Basin Stinknet Patrol Info & Training
1pm: Garden Tour

Cave Creek Regional Park Invasive Species Removal
2025-04-05 07:00 - 10:30 | Cave Creek Regional Park, 37019 N Lava Ln, Cave Creek, AZ, United States

McDowell Mountain Regional Park Invasive Species Removal
2025-04-05 07:00 - 10:30 | McDowell Mountain Regional Park, 15899 N Mountain Pkwy, Fountain Hills, AZ, United States

Nature Walk at San Pedro House
2025-04-05 09:00 - 10:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
The San Pedro River is one of the last free flowing rivers in the Southwest and home to one of the largest cottonwood-willow riparian forests remaining in Arizona. On this walk we will discuss the interactions of the components that make up the ecosystem of the river and its importance to the surrounding area. The walks are 1.5 to 2 miles long over easy terrain. These are slower paced than a hike and suitable for most adults and children. The San Pedro House is located 7 miles east of Sierra Vista on Highway 90, on the south side of the highway. It is searchable in Google Maps.

History Walk to Grand Central Mill
2025-04-05 09:00 - 11:00 | San Pedro House, Sierra Vista, AZ, United States
Take a walk to the ruins of the historic Grand Central Mill with FSPR docent Merle Kilpatrick. During the Tombstone silver boom, this stamp mill operated 24 hours a day, processing the ore brought in from Tombstone by wagons. Learn about the mining history of the area and take a three-mile round trip walk to the mill site. This walk follows an uneven dirt and gravel trail. There is limited shade, and it will be hot on sunny days. Please realistically assess your ability to do this walk. Wear a hat, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and sturdy shoes. Bring water and snacks. This tour meets at the Fairbank Townsite, which is along Highway 82, 10.0 miles east of the Highway 82/90 intersection in Whetstone. The entrance to the parking area is on the north side of the highway about 0.5 mile east of the San Pedro River bridge. The tour will meet near the Schoolhouse Museum just inside the Townsite. Park in the outer lot and use the fenced trail to walk to the schoolhouse. “Fairbank AZ” is directly searchable in Google Maps. For more information, call (520) 508-4445 or email fspr@sanpedroriver.org. Hosted by the Friends of the San Pedro River.

Salt River Saturday - Trout Unlimited
2025-04-05 09:00 - 12:00 | Blue Point Recreation Area, Fort McDowell, AZ, United States
Join Trout Unlimited as we host a series of Salt River Saturdays with our Fishing Club partners, Desert Fly Casters Club (DFC), and Arizona Fly Casters Club (AFC), and of course with the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD).
We begin with our first Salt River Saturday on November 16 and continue through April. We will spend time cleaning up the area of Blue Point Bridge, picking up trash and improving habitat. Following that will be an opportunity to fish with the help of numerous fishing experts for stocked rainbow trout!

2025 Spring Trail Stewards Conference
2025-04-05 09:00 - 19:00 | Superior, AZ, Superior, United States
AZT Stewards and prospective Stewards are invited to attend our Spring Trail Stewards Conference in Superior, AZ. Visit our Registration Page for full details and to secure your spot.

NATURE PLAY
2025-04-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Boyce Thompson Arboretum, 37615 E US Highway #60, Superior, AZ 85173, USA, 38400 US Hwy 60, United States
Unplug and Reconnect with Nature!
Join us for Nature Play at the Children’s Garden, where families can escape the screens and dive into the wonders of the great outdoors. Every Saturday, from October to April, bring your kids to explore, play, and learn in a safe, engaging environment.
Outdoor play isn’t just fun; it’s essential! Benefits include:

Improved mental health
Increased physical activity
Prevention of myopia (near-sightedness)
Reduced risk of developmental delays
And so much more!Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to boost your child’s health and well-being. Best of all, it’s free with admission!

Arizona Public Lands Day Hike
2025-04-05 10:00 - 12:00 | Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, 16248 E Marsh Station Rd, Vail, AZ, United States
Join the Arizona Wildlife Federation and the Arizona Trail Association for a special All Afield Hike in celebration of Arizona Public Lands Day! We’ll be exploring the stunning Gabe Zimmerman Trail Loop, a 2.1-mile trek that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
This popular trail is renowned for birding and hiking and will take us through the beautiful Cienega Creek as well as a portion of the iconic Arizona Trail. Expect breathtaking views, fascinating rock formations, and a relatively flat path. Starting at the Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, the trail is a mix of dirt and gravel, with some rockier sections to navigate. Restrooms and public parking are available at the trailhead.
This hike is the perfect opportunity to connect with Arizona’s beautiful public lands — we hope you can join us!
Highlights:

Wildlife Watching: We may spot a variety of mammals like raccoons, coyotes, javelinas, and even coatimundis. Keep an eye out for beautiful birds such as vermilion flycatchers, phainopeplas (aka “goth cardinals”), and green-tailed towhees.
Native Plant Identification: Discover a wide diversity of plant life, including fruit-bearing cacti and native wildflowers that add vibrant color to the landscape.
Scenic Views & Geology: Enjoy breathtaking vistas and fascinating rock formations as you explore the trail.
Accessible & Family-Friendly: The trail is welcoming to all ages and is a beginner-friendly hike. If you have specific questions about accessibility, feel free to reach out to us at the contact info below.

What to Bring:

Comfortable walking or hiking shoes — be prepared for slightly muddy areas!
Hat
Water bottle (always bring more water than you think you need!)
The Merlin App and iNaturalist App downloaded on your phone (we will use these to help us identify species)
Binoculars (optional, AWF has 2 pairs to loan if needed)

Meeting Point: Once you register, you will receive an email with detailed driving and meeting instructions prior to the hike.
Note: Dogs are permitted as long as they remain on leash, are friendly, and able to handle a hike.
For More Information: Contact Elise Ketcham, AWF’s Communications Manager, elise@azwildlife.org
Saturday, April 5, 2025 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM MST (AZ)

Gabe Zimmerman Trailhead, 16248 E MARSH STATION Rd, Vail, AZ 85641

Murray Springs Clovis Site Open House
2025-04-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Murray Springs, N Moson Rd, Sierra Vista, 85635, United States
The Friends of the San Pedro River (FSPR) will have an Open House at the Murray Springs Clovis Site, a National Historic Landmark, on Saturday, April 5, from 10 am to 1 pm. FSPR volunteers will be on hand to open the gate, answer questions, and help visitors.
This is a 13,000 year old mammoth (and other animal) hunt camp where incredibly preserved tools where found. Replicas will be able to be examined. It’s an awesome experience (Highly Rated by Be Outdoors Arizona!)

All vehicles must be out of the parking lot by 1 pm when the gate will be locked. The Bureau of Land Management has closed the site to vehicle access due to ongoing vandalism.
FSPR has special permission from BLM to have the site open at scheduled times and also when FSPR hosts guided tours to the site. The next tour is April 19 at 9 am. Murray Springs is located on Moson Road, about 2 miles north of Highway 90. The entrance to the site is on the east side of Moson Road. Search for Murray Springs Clovis Site on Google Maps.

Arizona Water Awareness Month Festival
2025-04-05 10:00 - 14:00 | Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, 1700 West Washington Street, Phoenix, 85007
Celebrate Arizona’s precious water resources with us at our Water Awareness Month Festival! It’s the largest water celebration of the year!
On April 5, Wesley Bolin Plaza will come alive with activities, exhibits, displays and games all relating to our most precious resource, water. The Arizona Water Awareness Month Festival offers residents a chance to learn about our local water resources and the importance of clean water in an engaging and interactive way.
There’s something for everyone, whether young or young at heart – explore Arizona’s geology, aquifers and water quality with hands-on activities, test your water knowledge by playing water trivia, or come enjoy some local food and music. There are plenty of kid’s games and activities with prizes and giveaways. It’s all free and open to the public!

Bird walk at Sierra Vista EOP
2025-04-06 07:00 - 10:00 | Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park, 7201 AZ90, Sierra Vista, AZ, 83635, United States
Bird walk at the Sierra Vista Environmental Operations Park (EOP) led by docents from the Friends of the San Pedro River and other local organizations.

Vail Scramble Prep Passage 7
2025-04-06 08:00 - 14:00 | Passage 7, AZ, United States
Please join the ATA on April 5 on Passage 7, in the Las Colinas Region near Tucson for a trail work event. This project is rated easy. Our project will focus on brushing.
For more information or to register for the event, visit our volunteer portal here.

Lake Pleasant Monday Clean-Up Crew
2025-04-07 07:00 - 09:00 | Lake Pleasant, Arizona, USA
Lake Pleasant is creating a Monday clean-up crew. If you are available on any Monday, please join us as we pick up litter along the shoreline.
What should the volunteers bring? – Water, salty snacks and fruit (oranges are best for hot weather), hat, sunscreen, closed-toed shoes/boots made for uneven surfaces, sunglasses, and work gloves.
What equipment will be provided? Some additional gloves are available, limited supply, litter pickers, and bags.
Contact information of person-in-charge: Koy D. Mangan, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Supervisor, koy.mangan@maricopa.gov, 602-506-9555
Event Description – Volunteers will meet staff outside of the main building at the entry station where they will sign them in. After signing in, volunteers will be directed to where to park for litter pick-up efforts. Volunteers should be prepared to pick up litter along the shoreline and throughout the park as directed by staff. Volunteers should be heat tolerant and mindful of their walking and hiking ability.

Guided Bird Walks at Tonto Natural Bridge
2025-04-07 09:00 - 10:00 | Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, Arizona 260, Pine, AZ, 85544, United States
Join a ranger on a ~1 mile, mostly paved, walk through some of the most biodiverse terrain in central Arizona. A combination of plant communities and habitats surrounding the world’s largest travertine bridge supports a wide variety of bird species that call the park home and we will be searching for. Meets between the Waterfall Parking and Waterfall Trailhead. Bringing your own optics is encouraged!
Event is free, day-use fee still applies.
The day-use fee at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is:
Adult (14+): $7.00
Youth (7–13): $4.00
Child (0–6): FREE

Romero Site Interpretive Hike
2025-04-07 09:00 - 10:30 | Catalina State Park, 11570 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, 85737, United States
Join local guides for a tour of the Romero site and walk through 1000-years of indigenous Hohokam history in 90-minutes! Learn about the area’s ranching history and how the Hohokam made a living in the desert. Note: This trail has stairs and crosses a seasonal stream; be prepared to walk in ankle-deep water. No restrooms on-site. Meet at the Romero Ruins Ramada.
Limited to 20 people: First Come, First Served
There is no cost to this program, but park entrance fees apply or bring your Arizona State Parks annual pass.

Fire-Adapted/Dependent Animals and Plants,
2025-04-07 13:30 - 14:30 | Carr House Visitor Center, 1011 E. Carr Canyon Rd, Hereford, 85615, United States
What happens to life when forests go up in smoke? Local resident Glen Minuth will help us look into how certain plants and animals in our western forests handle fire regimes to thrive in the ash-laden leftovers in what was left of the forest. Both plants and animals employ numerous survival strategies. We will gain an understanding of fire adaptations that reflect the traits plants and animals use to help them survive wildfire or to leverage the resources generated by wildfire.
