Roy P. Drachman Agua Caliente Regional Park, more commonly known as Agua Caliente Park, opened more than 30 years ago (in January 1985) on Tucson's northeast side.
Tucked away in a quiet, residential area, this unique 101-acre park features a perennial warm spring and three ponds, which are home to a rich mix of plants and animals.
Since there are no playgrounds and no sporting fields at this park, it tends to be less crowded than other city and county parks. That being said, it is still frequently used for family photos, birthday parties, and nature studies.
A visitor center, art gallery, and nature shop are also on the premises.
Agua Caliente Park is on Tucson's northeast side. The address is 12325 East Roger Road, 85749.
"Agua Caliente" means "hot water" in Spanish.
The park is open 7:00am to sunset every day of the year.
The Ranch House and Art Gallery, however, have designated hours:
Turtles, herons, bats, native fish, mule deer, coyotes, and many types of birds! You can access a bird watching brochure for Agua Caliente Park here. Pima County Conservation Lands & Resources reminds all visitors not to feed the wildlife.
Free.
Parking is free and plentiful.
Sun safety is encouraged. Prepare for a perfect day at the park with a hat, drinking water, sunscreen, and snacks or a picnic lunch.
Dogs on leashes are permitted (please clean up after your pet). No horses.
October thru April are ideal because the temperatures tend to be more moderate than in the summer months. That said, Agua Caliente Park can also be enjoyed in the summer months – especially in the early morning hours and at dusk.
For reservations or more information, please call Pima County Conservation Lands & Resources at 520-724-5000.
There are no playgrounds at Agua Caliente Park.
There are 57 non-reservable picnic tables at Agua Caliente Park.
No.
Yes.
Barbecue grills are available, but note that they may only be fueled with charcoal or propane.
No.
Since Agua Caliente Park is not in an urban area, the dining options are somewhat spread out. Still, you should be able to find a great spot to dine within 5-15 minutes. Try one of the below restaurants, which are all within a 9-mile radius of the park:
Picking up supplies for a picnic? Safeway grocery store is about ten minutes away.
Try Grandma Tony's Pizza at 7878 E. Wrightstown Rd (take-out only, no dine-in) or Bear Canyon Pizza (listed above).
The exact mileage is not known, but it's a relatively short loop - ideal for bird watching or leisurely strolls.
No.
Bicycles, scooters, and skateboards are not permitted.
There is one warm spring and three ponds.
No. Swimming is not permitted.
No. Fishing is not permitted.
No. Feeding the ducks is not permitted.
Yes. The restrooms are located near the parking lot.
Yes. A group use permit is required for all functions with 20 or more guests. The maximum group size is 40 guests. The group use permit is free, but does not guarantee parking or a specific location in the park. All sites are on a first-come basis. All group activities must conclude before sunset.
Jumping castles, pop-up canopies, pinatas, balloons, PA systems, alcohol, and kites are not permitted.
Yes. For more information, call 520-724-5000 or send an email to [email protected].
| Museum | NO |
| Cafe | NO |
| Public Pool | NO |
| Splash Pad | NO |
| Parks & Rec Facility | NO |
| Sports Fields | NO |
| Dog Park | NO |
| Walking/Biking Paths | YES |
| Water Features | YES |
| Hiking Trails | NO |
| Art/Sculptures | NO |
| Garden | NO |
| Trees/Shade | YES |
| Lighting | NO |
Check out the complete list of Tucson Parks.
