Day Trips from Gilbert
← All Gilbert day tripsDay Trips from Gilbert: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Gilbert, AZ. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Gilbert
Salt River Canyon Wilderness Area
AZ 85501, USA
Just 1 hr 56 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Saguaro National Park
USA
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 8,627 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trail Head Preserve - McDowell Mountains
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Just 36 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 132 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Thunderbird Conservation Park
Glendale, AZ 85310
Just 51 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 1,203 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tonto National Forest
AZ 85224, USA
Just 42 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 15,807 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Coconino National Forest
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Just 1 hr 43 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 22,535 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Thumb Butte Recreation Area
Prescott, AZ 86305
Just 2 hrs 14 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 665 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
Pine, AZ 85544
Just 1 hr 47 min from Gilbert, rated 4.8 stars by 3,977 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Picacho Peak State Park
Picacho, AZ 85141
Just 1 hr 13 min from Gilbert, rated 4.7 stars by 2,442 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Hassayampa River Preserve
Wickenburg, AZ 85390
Just 1 hr 25 min from Gilbert, rated 4.7 stars by 619 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Prescott National Forest
AZ 86305, USA
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Gilbert, rated 4.7 stars by 7,243 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Lost Dutchman State Park
Apache Junction, AZ 85119
Just 33 min from Gilbert, rated 4.7 stars by 3,423 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Gilbert
What are the best state parks near Gilbert, AZ?
The best state parks near Gilbert offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Gilbert?
Most state parks near Gilbert charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Gilbert are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Gilbert offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Gilbert?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Gilbert. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me