We are lucky to have so many great places in the region where kids can get outside and play -- and you can take in the beautiful views!
Here are some of my family's favorite spots in the area to visit. Don't see your family's favorite place here? Drop me a note and I'll add it to our list!
Put on your sunscreen, load up the cooler with water and snacks and head out to any of these awesome parks!
 |
Watson Lake - Prescott, AZ
Watson Lake is our favorite place to escape the hustle and bustle. Although you can't swim in it, the lake is gorgeous and you can still enjoy so many other activities like kayaking, fishing, rock climbing, hiking and camping!
 |
Montezuma Castle National Monument Arizona - Camp Verde, AZ
Montezuma Castle is a pretty amazing sight no matter how many times you see it. It is hard to imagine living in the cliffs, let alone building the dwellings. Montezuma was built sometime around 1050 CE by The Sinagua People, "Sinagua" meaning "without water" in Spanish. Montezuma Castle consists of 20 rooms 90 feet up a limestone cliff. Before 1951 visitors were allowed to go inside the dwellings using a series of ladders, unfortunately they had to stop in order to preserve the site.
 |
Montezuma Well - Camp Verde, AZ
Montezuma Well is a sub-unit of Montezuma Castle, but it is definitely worth its own mention. This was one of our favorite hikes when we moved to Arizona. When you get out of your car it looks very underwhelming, but once you get to the top of the hill there's a literal oasis in the middle of the desert. There is a hike down to base of the well with cliff dwellings you can explore. You can see more across the rim on the opposite side. If you continue on after the well you'll see some other pretty cool stuff. Don't skip the little side trail!!
 |
Tuzigoot National Monument - Clarkdale, AZ
Tuzigoot National Monument consists of a pretty easy 1/3 mile loop in and around the Tuzigoot Pueblo. This 1000 year old site was a 110-room village. The views from the top of the monument of the Tavasci Marsh and Verde River are beautiful, and you can explore inside the dwellings.
 |
Dead Horse Ranch State Park - Cottonwood, AZ
Although it doesn't sound super inviting, don't let the name fool you! We went on a family camping trip here and it was a blast for everyone. The kids loved playing in the sand and water and the adults enjoyed relaxing by the fire at night. In addition to camping they have fishing, kayaking, biking, hiking and more!
Like this article? Macaroni Kid Prescott is full of useful local information for families. Subscribe to our FREE weekly e-newsletter for the 411 on local family fun! Click Events or Directory from the home page to submit your events and business listings. And be sure to like and follow us on Facebook for last-minute updates, news, and giveaways.
