Oracle State Park - known for its high-desert landscapes, hiking trails and a historic ranch house - will reopen in the spring after being closed for more than two years by budget cuts.
The park, near the town of Oracle, will be open on a limited basis next year. A full-time opening will depend on future funding.
Credit for the reopening goes mainly to fundraising efforts by the Friends of Oracle State Park, officials said.
"It's very exciting, a very positive step," said Renée Bahl, executive director of Arizona State Parks. "The park will open for three months in the spring and three months in the fall, but the exact dates aren't yet determined."
Bahl said the initial opening would be for four days each week.
"It will be open exclusively to school groups Wednesday through Friday," she said. "On Saturdays, it will be open to the general public to enjoy the trails, the park scenery and the Kannally Ranch House."
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The ranch house was built between 1929 and 1932 in Mediterranean-revival style accented with Moorish influences.
Bahl said the Friends group "worked very hard to engage the community in an effort to get the park open."
"They have contributed $21,000," she said. "That pays for a ranger to be there when the park is open, and volunteers will help along the way.
"Arizona is very lucky to have a group like the Friends of Oracle State Park," Bahl said. "If not for them, the park would stay closed."
She said Oracle, which was closed in October 2009, is the only one of several once-closed state parks that remains closed. The others have reopened with help from communities, an Indian tribe and volunteers.
Contact reporter Doug Kreutz at dkreutz@azstarnet.com or at 573-4192.
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