Lincoln Regional Park

Where to Find This Sprawling Oasis

Positioned in the southeastern corner of Tucson, Lincoln Regional Park spreads across a generous 419.4 acres of desert and developed land. You'll find this expansive green space at 8330 E. Escalante Road, framed by Camino Seco, Irvington, Pantano, and Escalante roads. With distinct upper and lower sections, even regulars sometimes need a map to fully explore everything this park has to offer.

A Slice of Sonoran Desert Beauty

What makes Lincoln Park special is its balance of recreational spaces and untouched desert landscape. About 20% remains wonderfully wild, with more than half of that designated as a Protected Natural Area. This preservation effort supports local wildlife - you might spot roadrunners darting across paths, coyotes in the distance, hawks soaring overhead, and colorful hummingbirds and cardinals flitting among the vegetation.

The natural areas feature both paved and dirt trails, although some of the unpaved paths aren't marked, so tread carefully if you venture off the beaten path. The protected sections showcase beautiful native plants like ocotillo, giving you a genuine taste of the Sonoran desert ecosystem right in the city.

Getting Around the Park

The Atterbury Wash Greenway acts as the park's main artery - a paved, well-lit path stretching 0.9 miles from Escalante Road to the Fred Enke Golf Course. It's reserved for walkers, joggers and cyclists only, making it a peaceful corridor through the park. You'll find water fountains scattered along the trails, but they're not always working, so bringing your own water is a smart move, especially during Tucson's warmer months.

Sports and Recreation Galore

The centerpiece for many visitors is the Julie Marilyn Reitan Softball Complex, named after a University of Arizona softball player. The facility hosts youth and college tournaments throughout the year.

Beyond softball, the park offers several other athletic options. You'll find well-maintained soccer fields, baseball diamonds, basketball courts, and sand volleyball courts scattered throughout the grounds. The grass fields are generally well-kept, although the soccer areas occasionally show signs of heavy use.

Fun for the Little Ones

If you're bringing kids along, they'll love the updated playground with its mix of swings and climbing equipment. The climbing wall that leads to slides is particularly popular. Parents will appreciate that the play area is clean, safe, and offers some shade for those hot Arizona days.

Looking to host a gathering? The park's ramadas (covered picnic areas) can be reserved for parties and events. These shaded spots are well-suited for birthday celebrations and family get-togethers, and many are conveniently located near play areas and fields.

A Paradise for Pups

Dog owners will appreciate the The relatively new dog park has become a local favorite with its grassy areas, cooling misters, drinking fountains, and even a canine-specific jungle gym. Your four-legged friends can run off-leash within this fenced area, while the rest of the park welcomes leashed pets on its numerous walking paths.

The expanded parking near the dog park makes it easy to visit with your furry companion, and it's become something of a social hub for pet owners from across Tucson.

Natural Encounters

For a more tranquil experience, head to the Atterbury-Lyman Bird Sanctuary within the park. This area offers a quiet space to observe local wildlife and immerse yourself in the desert environment.

Just be mindful during evening hours when desert creatures become more active. The diversity of landscapes within the park creates an excellent balance between active recreation and peaceful nature appreciation.

Practical Matters

You'll come across clean restrooms throughout Lincoln Park, however availability varies depending on which section you're visiting. During tournament days, a snack bar near the softball fields provides convenient refreshments.

Parking is generally plentiful for everyday visits, however it can fill up quickly during busy tournament weekends. The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10:30PM, great for early morning jogs or evening strolls as the desert cools down.