42. Idlewild
Chiricahua Mountains in southern Arizona
The Chiricahua Mountains are one of the most famous of the “sky islands” in southern Arizona, rising from the desert floor to elevations up to 9,600 feet. Components of the Sonoran Desert, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Madres come together to create a unique combination of flora and fauna that has captivated the scientific community for decades. Every spring, the Cave Creek section comes under scrutiny as birders descend into this ecological melting pot attempting to catch a glimpse of the elegant trogon. With a spectacular red breast and green metallic feathers on its upper parts, the trogon is one of the few tropical species in the continental United States.
Other rare species also are known to inhabit the Cave Creek area. Idlewild’s close proximity to the Southwest Research Center (managed by the Museum of Natural History in New York) makes it an excellent base of operations for birdwatchers.
Directions: Take SR 80 south from Interstate 10, then turn west to Portal. From Portal, take FR 42 west for two miles to the campground.
More info: Douglas Ranger District, 520-364-3468
43. Cattail Cove State Park
Lake Havasu
On a lake where rambunctious boat parties are common, this park offers one of the quieter camping experiences. Nice views of Lake Havasu are afforded by most of the somewhat smallish campsites. But visitors come for the boating and swimming, which are easily facilitated by a boat ramp, jetty and dock. After all, with the lake adding humidity to one of the state’s hottest temperature zones, hanging around the campground is the last thing you’ll want to do. The facilities are superb, with showers, a horseshoe pit and a playground for children.
Directions: Take SR 95 south from Lake Havasu City. Turn right at the sign for the park. Campsites can be accessed from any of the boat ramps on Lake Havasu, or from the boat ramp in the park.
More info: Cattail Cove State Park, 520-855-1223
44. Cattail Cove Boat-In
Lake Havasu
My friend John is riding the wake of the boat on a pair of water skis. The cool breeze washes over me as we skim the calm waters of Lake Havasu. I’m searching the shoreline for a secluded cove in which to set up camp. Spotting a likely location, I yell back toward Bob and point. Swerving toward the shore, Bob releases the line and coasts in. The east shore of Lake Havasu is your oyster — if you have a boat and camping supplies. The 140 campsites that can be accessed only by boat are spread over 15 miles of shoreline and offer a unique camping experience. Bob and I set up camp and return to the water for more skiing. Tonight, we’ll watch the stars come out and wait for the moon while pork chops sizzle on the barbecue.
Directions: Take SR 95 south from Lake Havasu City. Turn right at the sign for the park.
More info: Cattail Cove State Park, 520-855-1223
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