Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Superior, AZ
Recommended Stay: Day trip
Distance from Phoenix Wandervans: The journey from Phoenix to Boyce Thompson Arboretum takes about an hour and a half(~60 miles), making it a perfect day trip destination.
Why Boyce Thompson Arboretum?
Are you looking for a fun and adventurous day trip in Arizona? Look no further than Boyce Thompson Arboretum! With its stunning botanical gardens, diverse wildlife, and beautiful hiking trails, this state park is perfect for a day trip in a camper van with your furry friend.
Once you arrive at the arboretum, you'll be greeted by a breathtaking landscape of towering trees, vibrant flowers, and meandering paths. The park spans 323 acres and features over 3,200 different desert plants, making it a true wonderland for nature lovers.
If you're looking for a leisurely stroll, the Main Trail is a great place to start. This one-mile loop takes you through the heart of the arboretum, passing by cactus gardens, herb gardens, and a variety of bird species along the way. For a more challenging hike, try the High Trail, a three-mile loop that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons. The trails are dirt
As you explore the park, keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife that calls the arboretum home. You may spot hummingbirds, butterflies, lizards, and even bobcats or javelinas if you're lucky! There is small stream that passes thru the property which is always a plus in the desert.
After a full day of hiking, take a break at the arboretum's picnic area, where you can enjoy a meal with your pup while taking in the scenic surroundings.
This will take up your full day so if you want to make it an overnight trip, check out the recommendations below. So pack up the camper van, grab your pup, and get ready to explore the wonders of Arizona's natural beauty.
Hiking/Activity Suggestions:
Apache Leap: A scenic overlook that offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and the historic copper mining town of Superior.
Queen Creek Tunnel: A historic tunnel that was built in the 1950s to bypass a steep section of the original highway between Superior and Phoenix.
Superior Historical Society and Museum: This museum showcases the history of the town and the surrounding area, including exhibits on mining, ranching, and Native American culture.
Picketpost Mountain Trail: This hiking trail offers stunning views of the Superstition Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Camping:
Superior has one campground in the area, the Oak Flat Campground. It is located about 6 miles east of Superior and offers tent and RV camping, as well as access to hiking and mountain biking trails. The campground has 50 campsites, including a few with full hookups, and also offers amenities such as showers, restrooms, and picnic tables.
Operating Hours & Seasons:
The best time to visit Superior, Arizona is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. During these seasons, temperatures are typically in the 70s during the day and can drop to the 40s or 50s at night.