Maricopa County Parks and Recreation initiated construction on Phases II and III of the Vulture Mountains Recreation Area, expanding amenities and access in the region west of Wickenburg.
Following the completion of Phase I in 2022, which focused on roadway improvements, utilities, and infrastructure, the new phases will introduce campground facilities, a nature center, picnic sites, and additional recreational features.
“This is a really exciting project for our community,” Supervisor Debbie Lesko of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, District 4, said in a press release. “Having onsite amenities such as a nature center and outdoor amphitheater for park programs provides visitors an opportunity to learn more about the plants and wildlife found in the area.
“The site will also feature a nature-themed playground with shade structures and picnic tables so kids can explore their surroundings safely,” Lesko explained.
The Vulture Mountains Recreation Area has been in development for over a decade. In 2012, the county applied for a Recreation or Public Purpose (RP&P) status for 1,046 acres from the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to secure the land for recreational use.
In 2018, a detailed development plan was submitted, leading to the phased construction approach now underway.
“Phase I has been completed, and now we are starting on Phases II and III, which focus on the camping and day-use facilities, such as a nature center,” said Jennifer Waller, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Director.
Phase II will include the construction of a single-story nature center with 43 parking spaces, three RV pull-through spaces, and seven picnic tables with shade structures.
The plan also features an outdoor amphitheater, a nature-themed playground, an equestrian staging area with 30 angled parking spaces, and a trailhead that connects to BLM’s trail system.
Additional infrastructure such as a maintenance facility, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office space, and water storage improvements are also part of this phase.
Phase III will introduce 80 RV campsites, four volunteer host sites, and five restroom and shower facilities.
A designated walk-in tent camping area with restroom access will also be developed. Additionally, an equestrian and group campground area will be available by reservation, and an RV dump station will be installed.
The expansion aligns with the county’s goal of increasing outdoor recreation opportunities while enhancing visitor experiences. By adding these amenities, the site will be able to accommodate a broader range of outdoor enthusiasts, from campers and equestrians to families seeking nature-based activities.
