The town of Payson, Arizona is just under two hours from Phoenix. While the town does get busy on weekends, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. Outdoor recreation is especially popular in this town, and there’s no shortage of ways to spend your free time. The town is home to the Jewel of Payson, Green Valley Park, which features three lakes, picnic areas, and an amphitheater. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the park and attend local events like concerts.
There are several great campgrounds located around the area, including those at the Mogollon Rim. These sites are higher in elevation and open later than those in the town center. However, if you’re concerned about health issues, some may be closed during this time. Campgrounds in this town all include firepits and picnic tables, so you can enjoy the scenery while staying in a tent or RV. The town is home to many renowned national parks and wildlife preserves.
The town of Payson is home to an active police department. There are over 32 sworn officers, including a chief, a lieutenant, five sergeants, and two school resource officers. In 2021, the Payson Police Department responded to more than 16,000 calls for service. In addition, the Payson Police Department staffs a 24-hour dispatch center for the Tonto Apache Police Department and the Pine/Straberry Fire District.
Camping in Payson is easy, thanks to a multitude of nearby locations and a paved road that winds through the mountainside. Camping at the Mogollon Rim is popular with locals, but it’s also popular with visitors to the area. There’s no site fee, and reservations are not required. There are toilets, drinking water, and wood for fires. During the summer, the park is packed with people enjoying their free time.
For the outdoorsy, the Payson area is an ideal location for rockhounds. The region is home to numerous quartz crystals, which rival Herkimer diamonds in quality. Nearby fossils are exposed along State Route 87 and State Route 260. The city also has a community swimming pool, two public lakes, and an outdoor skate park. Residents of Payson also enjoy free concerts and outdoor shows. You can even take a dip in the lake, where you can fish for giant blue-green turtles.
If you have a child who enjoys historical fiction, you can visit the Rim Country Museum. The Rim Country Museum is owned by the Northern Gila County Historical Society. It is open Wednesday through Sunday. You can visit the museum’s exhibits on the Mogollon Rim, which surrounds Payson for about fifty miles. You can also check out the Payson Rodeo, which is regarded as the oldest continuous rodeo in the world.
If you’re looking for a place to get away from the big city, Payson is the perfect place for you. The town is dotted with beautiful bodies of water and functional parks. Payson’s climate is perfect for outdoor sports, including hiking and camping. For a romantic getaway, you can surprise your loved one with a romantic getaway to the area. During your stay, you can stay at a Payson hotel and enjoy the outdoors.