Dead Horse Ranch State Park is located on the Verde River in an area called the Verde River Greenway at the elevation of about 3,300 feet. The 423-acre park has 10 miles of hiking trails, 150 campgrounds, several picnic areas, and 23 group camping sites.
There is trailhead access to the Dead Horse Trail System, which runs through the nearby Coconino National Forest. The ranch was named by its original owners, the Ireys family, who sold it to the state of Arizona to be converted into a state park.
The park is famous among bird watchers and nature enthusiasts for its annual Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival.
The "Birdy Verde," as it is popularly called, is a four-day bird-watching event held in April. During the festival, bird-watching trips are often led by nationally recognized experts. Another popular event held at Dead Horse Ranch State Park is Verde River Day, which celebrates the protection of the riparian habitat of the Verde River.
675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd, Cottonwood, AZ 86326