Greasewood Park

A Desert Oasis in the City

Greasewood Park in Tucson offers a 152-acre glimpse of untamed Sonoran Desert. Unlike manicured city parks, this natural area showcases Arizona's wild beauty in its most authentic form, with two distinct ecological zones that tell the desert's story: the Palo Verde-Saguaro upland community and the Sonoran Desert Riparian area.

The park is a good spot to observe local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for coyotes trotting along the horizon or javelinas foraging among the brush. Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars - the diverse feathered residents make this a good spot for casual birding without large crowds.

Trails and Views

The park's network of winding trails offers an accessible way to immerse yourself in desert beauty without committing to a strenuous hike. Perfect for a morning stroll or a thoughtful evening walk, these paths guide you through quintessential Sonoran vegetation with minimal elevation changes.

Scattered throughout are several picnic areas with clean tables, plus a shaded ramada near where you'll park. The sunset vistas are quite beautiful - the fading light paints the desert in gold and pink hues, making it a nice spot for an evening meal.

Find Your Way

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure with purpose, Greasewood functions as an orienteering site complete with marker posts throughout the terrain. You can download maps online before your visit, but be aware that some posts may show signs of wear or might be missing - the park retains a bit of rugged charm rather than polished perfection.

Photographer's Paradise

Greasewood Park offers accessible photo opportunities that showcase the desert's natural beauty, without requiring travel to remote areas or national park fees. The changing light throughout the day creates different moods, from crisp morning clarity to the warm glow of late afternoon.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

Your dogs are welcome here as long as they stay leashed. The relatively flat terrain makes for a pleasant walk for pets of all sizes and energy levels. You'll find pet waste stations along the paths - always appreciated for keeping the natural area clean for everyone.

Good to Know Before You Go

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 7PM, but note that gates lock promptly at closing with no warnings or grace period. Make sure to keep track of time during your visit to avoid an unexpected overnight desert camping experience!

Amenities are minimal - just a port-a-potty functions as the restroom facility, and you won't find water fountains anywhere in the park. Bring plenty of water, especially during Arizona's warmer months, which is most of the year.

Mornings and weekdays tend to be peaceful and quiet. As with any urban natural area, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly if you're exploring solo. Many visitors find it perfectly safe, but common sense precautions will ensure your desert adventure remains purely enjoyable.