Piedras Grandes Picnic Grounds - History

[joebartels]

Hiking a loop today I passed through this area (South Mountain - Box Canyon area) and am curious. A quick Google turned up nothing so figured I'd ask the HAZ Forum. I've seen the picnic tables near Kiwanis and Box Canyon but only today realized they are more in between and further on. Some with old light fixtures and even a few odd fountains in a couple wacky locations.

I realize it's all run down, old as the hills and a graffiti hot spot now days but I'm interested if any members remember it in it's heyday? Judging by the electrical and plumbing I'm guessing 50's to mid 70's ???

Currently looks to be the destination for horse rides from the stables. I've hiked around Box Canyon (lost of course) but this was my first time on the official Box Canyon Loop segment which appears to be primarily for horses.

[Nighthiker]

I think at one time it was a county park, then city of Phoenix.

[hikeaz]

Not that it's any big help, but it is named on the 1942 park map.

[Nighthiker]

Think the Images of America has a Book on South Mtn.

[joebartels]

Now that would be cool to see.

I was hoping a member here may have visited the area as a child and had memories to share. Albeit trashy in looks today, it appears to have been a nice family destination back in it's heyday. Believe I'll just ask around that visitors center next time. Perhaps they'll know someone that might know.