25 Apr Horseback Riding Vacations in Arizona
Are you one of the many Arizona residents who love horseback riding? Trail riding allows you to enjoy some gorgeous vistas, and it offers several health benefits as well!
If you’re looking for some new places to explore on horseback, Arizona has a ton of great spots for equestrian camping and trail riding! You can explore everything from mountain terrain to desert landscapes to scenic river trails.
Here are five standout places where you can go camping and ride some scenic trails.
1. Catalina State Park – Tucson
Nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this park offers gorgeous desert and mountain views with designated equestrian camping and miles of multi-use trails. If you don’t own horses, Catalina State Park also offers horseback riding through its concessionaire, Rancho De Los Cerros.
- Trails: There are 95 miles of trails, including the popular 50-Year Trail. This specific trail is suitable for intermediate-level riders and above. It has varying terrain that includes technical ascents and descents. It is accessible year-round, but visitors should be prepared for water crossings during monsoon season.
- Camping: The park has horse-friendly campsites as well as a staging area. There are 16 pens that are free to use and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
2. Dead Horse Ranch State Park – Cottonwood
This Verde River Valley location has lush green areas, a variety of wildlife, and a mellow vibe. It’s a great place for families looking to ride the trails together.
- Trails: The ranch offers access to over 20 miles of trails, including the Lime Kiln Trail which connects to Red Rock State Park. The Thumper and Raptor Trails are known for their wide, well-maintained paths and beautiful views of the Verde River. These trails can accommodate riders of all skill levels, offering a peaceful ride through cottonwood groves, open grasslands, and classic Arizona high desert terrain.
- Camping: Equestrian campsites with pens and water are available.
3. Kaibab National Forest – Williams
In the cooler pine forest country near the Grand Canyon, this site has tons of dispersed camping and forest roads perfect for long rides.
- Trails: Hundreds of miles of forest roads and trails are waiting for you! The Bill Williams Mountain Trail ascends through ponderosa pines to panoramic summit views. The Sycamore Rim Trail is a 12-mile loop that offers scenic views of Sycamore Canyon and unique rock formations.
- Camping: The dispersed campsites are horse-friendly, and some of the developed campgrounds allow equestrian use.
4. Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
With cool mountain air, thick pine forests, and miles of remote trails, this forest is ideal for escaping summer heat. May through October is prime camping season in the mountains.
- Trails: The Los Burros Trail is a big favorite, and there are plenty of others to explore
- Camping: Dispersed and developed camping is allowed for up to two weeks. The Los Burros Campground is horse-friendly, and a great spot for those who want to enjoy a longer vacation.
5. Tonto National Forest
This massive area boasts over 900 miles of horseback riding trails and diverse scenery as well. You can experience everything from desert landscapes to pine forests.
- Trails: Hewitt Station, Pinal Mountains, Second Water rail, and Superstition Wilderness areas are popular with Arizona equestrians. For a challenge, try Cave Creek Trail #4.
- Camping: Dispersed camping is widely available. Horse camps like Coon Bluff are good staging areas.
Keep Your Family’s Estate in Good Health
Planning for the future is a lot like preparing for a long trail ride. Some thoughtful planning today can help you enjoy the ride tomorrow—whether you’re camping with your horses in the backcountry, or leaving a legacy for your family.
If you don’t have an estate plan yet, we’d love to help. Schedule a free consultation, and let’s talk about your goals, your loved ones, and how we can create a strategy that keeps your family’s future on solid ground. Give us a call today to get started!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (04.25.2025). Photo by Alex Moliski on Pexels