The name of Dead Horse Ranch State Park may fool you into believing that the park is desolate, but it’s actually a beautiful area in Cottonwood, Arizona.
Nestled in Coconino National Forest this park is teeming with wildlife thanks to the gorgeous Verde River. The park was named by the last owner who purchased the land in the 1950s, after he found a dead horse lying in one of the fields. Although the park only covers 423 acres it offers great recreational opportunities.
The area is ideal for camping, hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the Verde River. This Dead Horse Ranch State Park AZ Visitors Guide will help you to plan a great trip to this hidden gem in Arizona.
Table of Contents
Where Is Dead Horse Ranch State Park?
Dead Horse Ranch State Park is in Arizona on the Verde River. The closest town is Cottonwood, but the park is within easy distance of Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Prescott. The parks official address is
675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd,
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
Things To Do
Hiking
Dead Horse Ranch State Park has great hiking trails for every skill level where you’ll get to experience the beautiful Arizona landscapes. There are plenty of great family friendly options as well as some challenging treks.
Dead Horse Ranch Lagoon Loop
Distance: 1.9 miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 32 ft
Dead Horse Ranch Lagoon Loop is a popular fishing and hiking trail. At 1.9 miles it’s great for all skill levels and offers a nice stroll by 3 beautiful lagoons. The Middle and East lagoons are wheelchair accessible making this hike perfect for the whole family.
Raptor Hill and Coconino Trail Loop
Distance: 1.4 miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 114 ft
This dog friendly 1.4 mile easy hike is perfect for any skill level. This trail is used for both hiking and trail running thanks to very little elevation gain. You’ll get a nice view of the Tuzigoot National Monument from the top. This is a great little hike to take with kids!
Dead Horse Ranch Forest Loop Trail
Distance: .7 miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 0 ft
This easy walking trail is great for a family walk. Dogs are also welcome on this .7 mile trail that is great for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
Lower Raptor, Thumper, Lime Kiln
Distance: 7.5 miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 705 ft
If you’re looking for gorgeous desert views you’ll love Lower Raptor, Thumper, Lime Kiln trail. This moderate 7.5 mile hike will take you about 3.5 hours to complete. The panoramic views of the Verde Valley is worth the climb! You can hike clockwise or counter clockwise. During warmer months make sure to bring plenty of water with you.
Lower Raptor, Upper Raptor, Rust Bucket, and Bones Loop
Distance: 13.9 miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,161 ft
A combination of hiking trails that leads to the most challenging trek in the park at 13.9 miles. This is a day hike that takes roughly 6.5 hours. It’s recommended that you hike this counter clockwise for a more enjoyable experience. A major portion of the hike is in the full sun so make sure to start early in the morning.
Wildlife Viewing
Dead Horse Ranch State Park may surprise you in terms of its diverse wildlife. The high desert of this area of Arizona has a unique array of mammals, reptiles, and birds. In the Verde River you may even be able to spot river otters, although they are normally very solitary animals. River otters mate during the spring and are very active during this season. Other animals you may spot in the park include coues whitetail deer, gray fox, coyote, jackrabbits, mule deer, bobcats, mountain lions, and javelinas. Keep an eye out for Gambel’s quail, red spotted toads, and California king snakes.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed anywhere along the Verde River, although there is no lifeguard on duty and swimming is at your own risk. However, swimming in the lagoons in Dead Horse Ranch is prohibited. If you are interested in checking out the lagoons, the two lower lagoons are open for canoe and kayak use.
Fishing
If you’re looking to catch a few fish during your time at Dead Horse Ranch State Park you’ve got 2 distinct options. The Verde River holds bass, bluegills, and channel catfish year round. It is also stocked with rainbow trout during the winter months. You can also fish the Dead Horse Ranch lagoons. Largemouth bass are particularly active in the lagoons during the spring when they breed in the shadows.
Where To Stay
Nearby Lodging
Tavern Hotel
904 N Main Street
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
This upscale hotel housed in a very cool 1925 building is just a short walk from Main Street and shopping, restaurants, and museums. The modern rooms will have you feeling relaxed in no time. The hotel also offers free cocktails perfect for relaxing after a long day in the park. And free breakfast that is great for fueling up before heading to the park. At just 5 minutes from the park you really can’t beat this location. You can book the Tavern Hotel here.
Adobe Grand Villas
32 Hozoni Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336
Those looking for a bit of rustic luxury will love the Adobe Grand Villas in Sedona. These villas have kitchenettes, fire places, and whirlpool tubs that are great for total relaxation. Gourmet dining is available at this refined bed and breakfast. At just 3 miles from Sedona and a short 23 minute drive from Dead Horse Ranch State Park, it’s the perfect base for anyone looking for a little luxury. You can book the Adobe Grand Villas here.
The Connor Hotel
160 Main Street
Jerome, AZ 86331
This fully restored 1898 redbrick hotel features rooms with charming antiques and period details. The lively bar is perfect for evenings after spending a day at the park. At 21 minutes from the park this is a great option for anyone looking for a historical place to stay.
Campgrounds
$30-$35 per night for hookups
$20 per night standard
$15 per night for additional vehicles
Dead Horse Ranch State Park has quite a few options in terms of camping. Whether you are looking for camp in your RV with hookups or take the more traditional tent camping route this park has great options for you.
There are over 100 large RV sites available in the park. Most of the pull through spaces can accommodate 40 foot motorhomes as well as truck and trailer rigs up to 65 feet in length. These sites include potable water and 30/50 amp electrical hookups. Generators are prohibited in the campgrounds.
Quail Loop – 43 campsites
Red Tail Loop – 36 campsites
Cooper’s Hawk Loop – 27 campsites
Blackhawk Loop – 17 non-electric campsites that are reserved exclusively for tent camping. This loop is also right next to modern restrooms that provide hot water and showers.
You can make reservations here.
There is a non-refundable $5 reservation fee per reserved campsite.
Cabins
$60 per night
$10 reservation fee
The Dead Horse Ranch Camping Cabins are a comfortable way to escape to the Verde River. The beautifully rustic log cabins offer the perfect way to unwind after hiking, swimming, and fishing in the park. These air conditioned and heated cabins will keep you cool and comfortable all year round. There are a total of 8 one-room log camping cabins available at Dead Horse Ranch State Park. The cabins each contain a full sized bed, a bunk bed, table and chairs, and electricity.
Campers will need to supply their own linens. Each cabin also features a fire ring, outdoor BBQ, and picnic table. Cooking inside the cabins is prohibited so make sure to enjoy your meals in nature. Showers are just a short distance away.
You can book a cabin here.
Reservation Policies
- 14 night maximum stay
- Pets must be declared when making the reservation
- Pets are only permitted in cabins 3 through 8
- $5 per night pet fee
- 2 pet maximum per cabin
- Maximum occupancy is four adults, but cannot exceed 6 adults
- Check in at 3 pm, Check out at 10 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deadhorse Ranch State Park Worth It?
Yes! This is a stunningly beautiful part of Arizona. One of the main attractions is the water of the Verde River. This park offers great swimming and fishing opportunities. With plenty of options for hiking, you won’t find a shortage of things to do.
Are Dogs Allowed?
Yes! Pets are allowed at Dead Horse Ranch State Park but they must be kept on a 6 foot leash at all times. Never leave pets unattended while in the park. Pets are never permitted in state park buildings.
How Much Does It Cost?
It costs $7 per vehicle to visit Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
What are the hours for Dead Horse Ranch?
Day use hours are 8 am to 10 pm.
Visitor Center hours are 8 am to 5 pm.
Gates to the park close at 10 pm.
Do You Need A Reservation For Dead Horse Ranch?
It’s best to reserve campsites and cabins in advance, however day use passes are unnecessary.
What Facilities Are Available?
Dead Horse Ranch State Park has quite a few facilities including a visitors center, park store, dump stations, and restroom and showers. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is surprisingly beautiful and will leave you wanting to explore more of Arizona. Whether you take one of the park trails or swim in the Verde River, you won’t forget the time you’ve spent here.
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