Top Adventurous Things to do in Arizona with Kids

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Top adventurous things to do in Arizona with kids

In 2021, we took our first road trip across the US in our campervan. I was excited to see where our van would take us on our journey, and I was excited to find some amazing places to visit along the way.

Traveling through Arizona allowed us to engage in multiple outdoor activities that included exploring the rugged beauty of Arizona where you get to wander through some magnificent landscapes and hike against some amazing red rocks in Sedona or jump into the natural waters of the local parks and explore the exotic wildlife.

There are so many amazing things to do in Arizona and although we haven’t had the time to see them all, we have explored some pretty adventurous things throughout the state. We love to seek out adventure and each of these stops provided just that and gave us the wow factor and we explored each area.

Adventurous activities

• Boondocking locations, details at the end

• Out of Africa Wildlife Park

• Devil’s Bridge

• Slide Rock State Park

• Horseshoe Bend

• Grasshopper Point Swimming and Picnic area

• Grand Canyon National Park

Out of Africa Wildlife Park

Out of Africa Wildlife Park is home to some amazing wild animals. This smaller wildlife park is home to over 100 exotic animals from all over the world. The staff is eager to educate its visitors on the animals they take care of. They provide educational opportunities and entertainment for you to enjoy. They do their best to provide the animals with the best home they can that mimics their natural habitat.

This location is very hot in the summer so come prepared with sunscreen and a hat for shade. They do sell water bottles for convenience.

Cost: $42.95 ages 13+ and $27.95 ages 3-12 and seniors $40.95

Hours: Sunday to Saturday 9:30am -5:00pm. No admissions after 4pm. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Other experiences: Sloth encounter, Feed-A-Tiger, SuperMog Adventure Tour, Expedition Passport, Racing Raptor Zip, Zippin’ Safari Combo and VIP Behind the Scenes Tour.

Shows: multiple shows that show close up interactions with staff and the wild animals. Check the map for show times.

A map is given to you upon entrance which gives available show times and other important information to help guide you on your journey within the park.

We started out watching a tiger show where the staff interacted with the tiger in a pool of water. They played with the tiger for a while trying to get it to do tricks while entertaining the audience. This show was ok, but not my favorite. Younger kids would enjoy this interaction.

Below is the white tiger that makes their home at this park and the large snake that the staff interacted with and gave educational information on.

Sloth Encounter with Bart

We really enjoyed our private sloth encounter with Bart the two toed sloth. He is about 14 years old and has been living at the facility since 2008. It was so fun to be up close and to touch and feed a sloth. Each of us were able to feed the sloth with supervision from staff. It is amazing how slow they are in everything they do. They are amazing creatures. Bart the Sloth has recently passed away and this encounter is no longer available. (2023)

Cost for Sloth Encounter: 1-3 people is $96 for the group, 4 people $111, 5 people $126, 6 people $141, 7 people $156 (2023 prices)

African Bush Safari

After visiting with the sloth, we took the African Bush Safari bus ride. This took us on a tour to see the many different animals that live on their land. As we traveled through this area they would give information about the animals and stop and interact with a few of them.

Our bus driver stated he does this as a side job and stated he is Anthony Bandera’s stunt double at his other job (see below pic). He did sort of look like him but who knows.

Devil’s Bridge in Sedona

I was super excited to hike to Devil’s Bridge. This is the largest sandstone arch in the Sedona area. This was one of my favorite parts of the trip. (ok, really, I have several favorites….that’s allowed, right?) We arrived early to the trailhead to make sure we could get a parking spot. The parking lot only had a couple spots left so get there early!

Once parked, we used the restroom and then started on the trail. The trail was red sand/gravel throughout. We all started out strong, took plenty of water and kept on trekking along until we made it to the Bridge. My then 5-year-old did this trek with us and probably did the best with minimal support. Toward the end of the hike, you will have to climb up steep natural rock steps before you get to the bridge. There were several people that waited at this point as they were unable to climb the steps. To get to the bridge you have to make this more challenging part of the hike.

Once at the bridge you will most likely have to wait in line to go on the bridge. People are very kind and willing to take your picture for you. If you are afraid of heights, walking on the bridge might make you nervous with the 50-foot drop on the sides and you might just want to observe from the other side instead.

To keep us hydrated we used water bladders in our backpacks. We also took several water bottles in case we needed them. I love our Hydra Peak water bottles; they keep our drinks cold and when the weather isn’t 100 degrees the ice will stay in it for at least 24 hours.

This was a fantastic hike and had an amazing view at the end. We stopped at several spots along the way to take pictures of the beautiful views. We wore our hiking shoes or Chaco’s for the hike. Hiking shoes are probably best, but Chaco’s worked fine. It was mostly dirt and rocks so prepare to be dirty.

Cost: FREE to visit and FREE to park

Hike: 3.6 miles round trip from the Dry Creek Vista trailhead

Time: This should take about 1.5-3 hours to hike

Amenities: restrooms

Pets: allowed if on a leash

The temps in the summer months were really hot during our hike. By the time we got back to the van after our hike it was 113 degrees. This trail would be best to do in the cooler months.

Devil’s Bridge map

We took route 1 to get to the trailhead and then hiked that to Devil’s bridge. Part of this trail is a road so be aware of ATV vehicles.

Slide Rock State Park

Find this excellent water activity in Slide Rock State Park in Sedona. This is a 43-acre historic apple farm within Oak Creek Canyon. Slide Rock opened to the public in 1987. It has been voted as one of the top 10 swimming holes in America.

Cost: Parking is $20 per vehicle Monday to Thursday and $30 Friday to Sunday Memorial day to Labor day and during some holidays. Labor day to October 31 $20. November to February $10. They do accept credit cards or cash. Cash must be exact change. The parking area is small.

Please take note: You cannot park on the side of the road and walk into or be dropped off at the park. You are required to drive into the park with your vehicle. If you go during peak time you will have to wait to enter the park. Although we had to wait for a small amount of time, I had no problem parking here with my campervan.

Hours: 8am - 6pm so plan accordingly so you have time to enjoy the park before it closes. November 26 to February 3 open 8am to 5pm. Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve 9am to 2pm. Closed Christmas day.

Natural water slide

The natural slide rock is 80 ft long. You can slide on your bottom, which is what we did (bring pants you don’t care if they get dirty as sliding on the rock will stain them) or some people brought tubes. There is also an area where you can cliff jump. I don’t believe cliff jumping was encouraged but lots of people were doing it. Jump and swim at your own risk as there are no lifeguards on duty. There are plenty of areas to sit and watch your kids swim or join them in the fun on the natural water slide. You can bring a picnic lunch and coolers into the park. No pets or glass are allowed in the swim area. They do have restrooms and a small gift shop for your souvenir, snack and swim needs. We wore our Chaco’s or water shoes and kept them on the whole time for safety and traction on the wet grounds.

We really enjoyed our time at this park. We stayed for several hours, and the kids really enjoyed swimming and cliff jumping. You will definitely need to put this on your bucket list, and you will not be disappointed.

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Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend was another one of my favorite destinations. This Horseshoe shaped bend, carved by the Colorado River, offers a majestic view of the sandstone cliffs and is located in Page, Arizona. Prepare to be amazed at the unforgettable beauty this location offers. There is plenty of parking and room for RV’s.

Amenities: There are restrooms located in the parking lot.

Hours: They are open from sunrise to sunset. No overnight camping or parking is allowed.

Cost: Cars and RV’s are $10 to park.

Hiking Horseshoe Bend

There is a .75 mile walk one way, to the bend. The view is absolutely beautiful. Enjoying the view provides an awe-inspiring landscape bringing you close to the edge of the cliffs. Be cautious of this area, especially if you are afraid of heights, as the cliffs 1,000-foot height can be dangerous if you get to close. There is a fenced off area for safety that you can enjoy the view from if preferred.

It is very hot in this area during the summer months so bring plenty of water and a hat for shade. There is no store here to purchase needed items, but they do offer water bottles for $1 each. Do not forget the sunscreen either! There are a couple rest areas along the path with a pavilion for shade as needed.

Grasshopper Point Swimming and Picnic Area

Grasshopper Point is a day use area for swimming or picnics in Sedona, Arizona. There are three trails within the area. One of those trails will lead to the beautiful Oak Creek Canyon area where you can relax in the water to get a reprieve from the sun. There are large rocks, as seen in the picture below, so be careful as you get closer to the water.

Address: N State Road 89A, Sedona, Arizona

Hours: 8am to 6pm April 1 to October 31, 9am to 6pm November 1 to March 31

Cost: $12 per vehicle up to 8 people (The sign when we were there in 2022 says the fee is $9, see below picture)

Amenities: swimming, picnics (8 tables with grills), hiking, fishing

Restrooms available

Caution: Although a lot of people who come to this area do cliff jump, it is not encouraged. This is discouraged by the park due to unforeseen rocks and varying depths of water under the surface. We did however cliff jump as did a lot of other people in the area. Jump at your own risk.

No camping

No pets

This park is 11 minutes from Slide Rock State Park.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park located in Arizona has such amazing rock formations and is such a beautiful park to visit. View the massive erosion that forms the beautiful Colorado River as you explore the canyons and trails that take over this park.

Hours: South Rim is open 24 hours/365 days a year. The North Rim is closed in the winter between mid October and mid June.

Visitor Center Hours: South Rim. 8am to 12pm. Closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Hours vary depending on season. North Rim. 9am to 6pm daily. Closed in the winter

Cost: private vehicle $35 for a 7 day pass or FREE with a National Park pass. NO cash accepted. Credit/Debit card only.

Amenities within the park: gas, ATM machine, post office, General Store (offers delicatessen and groceries), Visitor Center (Café with coffee, grab-and-go breakfast and lunch, hiker/biker supplies, and bookstore), hotel, and lodge

Things to do: hiking, backcountry hiking, river trips (lottery), ranger led programs, bicycling, mule riding, raft trip on the Colorado River, camping and more.

Havasupai tours: Tours are available to visit this area of the Havasupai tribe. If you have not seen pictures of the waterfall in this area, you have to look it up. It is so beautiful!! These are overnight tours which require you to provide your own tent and food. Mules can be rented for the trip.

Pets: are allowed within the park but are not allowed on the shuttle bus. They must be on a leash. Pets are not allowed below the canyon rim. Grand Canyon Kennel on the South Rim is available for your pet (dogs and cats only) while you hike the trails. Proof of vaccines is required. Kennel hours: 7:30am to 5pm daily.

Laundry and showers: available near Mather Campground

Camping: 3 developed campgrounds within the park.

FREE shuttle bus within park

More FREE boondocking locations across the US can be found by clicking on this banner

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More FREE boondocking locations across the US can be found by clicking on this banner 〰️

Boondocking in New River Arizona

We found a FREE boondocking spot in New River, Little Grand Canyon, Arizona. This spot was in the middle of nowhere and was a bumpy ride to get to our destination, but we didn’t have a problem getting there in my campervan.

Once we found a spot to camp, we parked the van and got out to take pictures by the Saguaro Cactus! I have always wanted to get a picture taken with these cacti and I finally found them!! Needless to say, I was so excited!

The GPS for this location is: 33.98958, -112.173981. This GPS is just to the general vicinity. There are several pullouts in this area so pick the one that is best for you.

No Amenities

This camping location is 1 hour 17 minutes north of Out of Africa Wildlife Park and 1 hour 18 minutes north of Devil’s Bridge Trail and 56 minutes north of Slide Rock State Park

15 essential items needed for boondocking

Wild Donkeys

As we explored this area, we could hear donkeys in the distance and see lots of donkey poo. We were hoping we would see donkeys and were really excited about it, but we never did. We took the time to eat and watch the sunset from this area. It was a beautiful area! Surrounded by red dirt, sand, cacti, and rolling hills. And of course, this area is hot in June! Now you all are thinking, duh its hot!! And yes, I expected heat and had managed this far without air conditioning at night. but it did not cool down at night and since we didn’t have an air conditioner except for when the van is running, it became really hot pretty quickly once I shut off the van.

We do have battery operated fans which helped in many of the locations we have stayed at, but it was 111 degrees here and I couldn’t stand sweating while I was trying to sleep so we went to a hotel later in the evening. We were close to Phoenix, so I googled available hotels and found one to stay in for the night. The good thing was it was nice to take a good shower that night! I really loved this area and if you had an air conditioner or stay in the cooler months, I would highly recommend this area. It is really quiet and close to the highway.

Boondocking in Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest is located in Williams, Arizona. This is located on a washboard gravel road surrounded by pine trees. This campground was so beautiful and I highly recommend this camping spot if you are in the area. There are a lot of campsites along this road, and it was full when we were in the area. You can camp in groups or in your own spot. The road goes on quite a way so you should be able to find a camping spot.

Cost: FREE

Amenities: rock fire pit

Apps: iOverlander

GPS: 35.19315, -112.13664 — This GPS is located at the beginning of Fire Rd 110. You keep going until you find a spot you want to camp.

Cell Signal: Yes, Verizon

This spot is located 1 hour 7 minutes south of Grand Canyon National Park and 2 hours 17 minutes south of Slide Rock State Park

GreenTea Inn in Sedona

While in Arizona we stayed at the GreenTea Inn in Sedona. This hotel had amazing Thunder Mountain views that you could enjoy while relaxing at the pool. The pool area was nice after a hot day in the sun.

Address: 2991 West State Route 89A, Sedona, Arizona

Amenities: Continental breakfast, updated pool, hot tub, cabanas, large fire pit and amazing views.

Pets: welcome in certain rooms

Need help booking your accommodations while in Arizona? Check out booking.com or VRBO for details.

Other local hotels with amazing mountain views

• Dreamcatcher Inn of Sedona - This hotel with a beautiful mountain view is located 10-minutes to Slide Rock State Park and 3-miles from the airport

• Sky Ranch Lodge - with spectacular views of the mountains, beautiful pool, and with excellent reviews, makes this the perfect place to stay. Located 2 hours from Grand Canyon National Park, 20 minutes to Slide Rock State Park and 40 minutes to Out of Africa Wildlife Park.

• Matterhorn Inn - another hotel with perfect mountain views. Located 40 minutes from Out of Africa Wildlife Park and 11 minutes from Slide Rock State Park.

Arizona summer heat

There is so much to see and do in Arizona. The summer is the hottest time to visit but that is the only time we can travel for an extended amount of time. Yes, it’s hot! Yes, the heat makes it exhausting. But it is so worth it! I love to travel. I love to spend time with my family and make memories. And yes, I would do it all over again despite the heat. We are all pretty healthy so I felt confident we could make it work. I have learned to find camping locations that are cooler which has helped us feel better on our journey. I use the FreeRoam app which gives the temps in each location that way I can avoid sleeping at night in the hottest spots. (app no longer available)

Planning an extended summer trip is a lot of work. I show compassion for those who can travel full time. I know the time spent planning has to be a lot. I envy the experiences they can enjoy at a slower pace. I commend them for the thought and time they spent preparing for life on the road. The extra time they get to spend with their kids is priceless.

Check out my blog post to find out the total cost for our 29-day campervan journey.

What dreams do you have to spend more time with your family? Do your best to make it happen. Not everyone can buy a van and turn it into a camper but there are so many more options available.

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. You can find cheaper tents online for an affordable travel. Make sandwiches and bring chips and water bottles for a quick impromptu trip. There are so many state parks available throughout the US that can satisfy any need for the outdoors and are affordable and sometimes free. Let me know your favorite places to visit and how you make it happen.

Check out my Instagram for more travel ideas.

Things to do in the surrounding states

• Check out New Mexico and visit White Sands National Park

• A Day trip to Carlsbad Caverns National Park

• Take in the views at Pikes Peak in Colorado

• Experience the beauty at Garden of the Gods in Colorado

Enjoy the journey,

Meet the author: Jennifer

I am a girl who loves to travel and enjoys sharing expert family travel advice. I am a content creator and influencer on Instagram with years of travel experience and provide readers with advice, tips, and details on adventurous family travel and tips on saving money while boondocking or traveling across the US.

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