Arizona state parks recovering after legislative fund sweeps forces closures

PHOENIX - Oracle State Park near Tucson re-opens on a part-time basis Saturday, marking the first time in two years no state parks will be closed due to budget issues.

Several state parks had to close or slash their hours in recent years, as the Arizona legislature swept money from the park system to help balance the budget.

"To lose the money we needed to keep those parks open was very difficult," said Interim State Parks Director Bill Feldmeier.

Feldmeier is now hoping a new bill in the Arizona legislature will help ensure Arizona's state parks will remain open for years to come. House Bill 2362 would allow state park revenue to stay within the system and become immune to funding sweeps.

State parks draw visitors to rural areas, drawing millions of dollars to smaller communities across Arizona.

"It's one of the reasons why people go to rural Arizona," Feldmeier said.

Hikers told ABC15 they hope the parks stay open.

"When it gets in your blood you don't just want to look at it, you want to get out and take advantage of the area," said hiker Richard Helmer.

Keep in mind several state parks are closed or have their hours reduced due to seasonal restrictions. You can see a list of when you can visit each park by visiting the state's website .