Local Parks in Payson
Outdoor recreation in Payson, Arizona is one of the community’s greatest treasures. Surrounded by the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine Forest and the scenic Tonto National Forest, Payson is the perfect destination for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and family-friendly activities.
The town features four beautiful public parks—Green Valley Park, Rumsey Park, Deming Park, Mustang Park, and Trek Trails Longhorn Bike Park —each offering unique amenities for visitors and residents alike
Beautiful Public Parks
These parks are popular venues for annual festivals, live events, and sports tournaments, as well as year-round opportunities for leisure, outdoor play, and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Payson’s parks and outdoor spaces showcase the best of Rim Country adventure and small-town charm.
Parks
Green Valley Park – The Jewel of Payson
Green Valley Park is a 43-acre destination often called the “Jewel of Payson.” Located at the end of Historic Main Street, the park offers something for everyone with its three beautiful lakes, children’s playground, picnic ramadas, amphitheater, and wide open spaces.
Visitors can also explore the Rim Country Historical Museum and the iconic Zane Grey Cabin, both located within the park.
Green Valley Park is one of Payson’s most popular attractions for families, outdoor lovers, and history buffs alike. Activities include:
- Fishing and kayaking on the lakes
- Splash pad
- Bird watching
- Walking the scenic trails
- Relaxing picnics and family outings
- Enjoying Rim Country’s stunning sunsets
- Attending concerts and community events at the amphitheater
Whether you’re planning a quick stop or a full day outdoors, Green Valley Park highlights the very best of Rim Country leisure and recreation.
The Green Valley Park Lakes are part of Arizona’s Urban Fishing Program, which provides fishing opportunities and education for local communities. Anglers of all ages enjoy fishing for rainbow trout, bass, and other species stocked throughout the year.
- For more information on the Community Fishing Program.
- For fishing license information or to purchase a fishing license.
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Swimming, wading, and any equipment that allows direct bodily contact with the water are not permitted
- Alcohol and amplified equipment are prohibited
- Boating is allowed with oars, paddles, or wind sails (gasoline or volatile liquid engines are not permitted)
Rumsey Park – Payson’s Premier Recreation Destination
At 82 acres, Rumsey Park in Payson, Arizona is the town’s largest municipal park and a hub for sports, recreation, and family fun.
Conveniently located in the heart of Payson, this expansive park offers an incredible variety of facilities for residents and visitors alike.
From organized sports to casual play, Rumsey Park is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Rim Country.
Rumsey Park is designed for all ages, with facilities that support both active lifestyles and leisure activities. Amenities include:
- New disc golf course
- 2 Multi-purpose fields
- 6 Pickleball courts
- 3 Tennis courts
- 2 Sand volleyball courts
- 2 Basketball courts
- One mile hiking – mountain bike trail
- Bocce ball court
- 2 Playgrounds
- Dog park
- Skate park
- Horseshoe pits
- 6 Shaded ramadas for gatherings and picnics
In addition, the Payson Public Library is located within Rumsey Park, making it a great stop for families and visitors looking for both recreation and relaxation.
With its wide range of sports courts, fields, and family-friendly amenities, Rumsey Park is more than just a park—it’s the recreational heart of Payson. Whether you’re planning a weekend softball game, a family picnic, or an afternoon at the skate park, Rumsey Park offers something for everyone.
Rumsey Park is open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM. All facilities are open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis, or may be reserved during park hours.
To reserve a facility at Rumsey Park, please contact the Payson Parks, Recreation & Tourism Office:
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Email: ppr@paysonaz.gov
- Phone: 928-472-5110
Deming Park – A Walk Through Payson’s History
Located along Historic Main Street at the intersection of McLane Road and West Main Street, Deming Park in Payson, Arizona is a small but meaningful destination that highlights the town’s rich heritage.
Though only a quarter-acre in size, this charming park offers visitors a glimpse into the past with displays that showcase the unique history of Payson and the Rim Country.
Deming Park features a covered walkway lined with historical displays that tell the story of Payson’s early days, community pioneers, and cultural heritage. The park also includes a small amphitheater area, making it a peaceful spot for reflection or a short rest while exploring downtown Payson.
To learn more about the history of Deming Park and the historic Boardman’s Store.
While smaller than Payson’s other community parks, Deming Park offers something unique—an opportunity to connect with the stories that shaped this mountain town. It’s the perfect stop for history lovers, families on a walking tour of Main Street, or anyone who wants to experience a piece of authentic Rim Country history.
Deming Park is open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM. Its convenient location makes it an easy stop for visitors enjoying Payson’s Main Street shops, dining, and attractions.
Mustang Neighborhood Park – Family Fun in Payson
The Mustang Neighborhood Park is a welcoming pocket park located on the northwest corner of Roundup Road and Mustang Circle in the Payson Ranchos subdivision.
Though just a quarter-acre in size, this community park is thoughtfully designed to provide families and neighbors with a safe and inviting place to play, relax, and connect.
Mustang Park may be small, but it offers a variety of family-friendly amenities, including:
- A children’s playground and swing set
- A shaded picnic shelter for gatherings and snacks
- A half-court basketball area for casual play and practice
As one of Payson’s neighborhood pocket parks, Mustang Park is especially popular with families in the Payson Ranchos area who enjoy having a local, walkable outdoor space.
Perfect for families with young children, Mustang Park offers a safe and convenient place for outdoor play and recreation. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic, shooting hoops, or letting the kids explore the playground, Mustang Neighborhood Park is a hidden gem that adds to the small-town charm and quality of life in Payson.
Mustang Park is open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the playground, picnic shelter, and basketball court during regular park hours.
Trek Trails Longhorn Bike Park
The Trek Trails Longhorn Bike Park, located on the campus of Rim Country Middle School, is one of Payson’s most exciting outdoor recreation spots for riders of all ages and skill levels.
Open to the community daily from 8 a.m. until dusk during non-school hours, this mountain bike park provides a safe, fun, and challenging space to ride while enjoying the natural beauty of the Mogollon Rim Country.
The park features a variety of purpose-built trails and training areas designed to help riders build confidence and sharpen their skills. Explore the climbing line for an uphill challenge, test your balance and control on the beginner downhill line, or step up to the intermediate downhill line for more speed and technical features. The pump track is perfect for riders looking to improve flow and endurance, while the skills area offers a controlled environment to practice techniques before heading out to Payson’s surrounding network of trails.
Nestled among towering ponderosa pines and impressive natural boulders, the Longhorn Bike Park blends seamlessly into the Rim Country landscape. Whether you’re a beginner just learning to ride or an experienced mountain biker looking to refine your abilities, the park offers something for everyone.
The Trek Trails Longhorn Bike Park is more than just a place to ride—it’s a community hub where families, friends, and cycling enthusiasts can gather, stay active, and enjoy Payson’s outdoor lifestyle. Visit today and see why it’s the perfect starting point before exploring the trails of Rim Country.
- Trek Trails Longhorn Bike Park, located at Rim Country Middle School in Payson, AZ
- 304 E Meadow St, Payson, AZ
- Open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk during non-school hours
- Explore climbing, beginner, and intermediate downhill trails for every skill level
- Practice and play on the pump track and skills area before hitting Payson’s scenic trails
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