Summary
Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler is more than just a recreational space with grass, pathways, and a pond. It plays a vital role in the city’s reclaimed water processing system, redistributing treated wastewater to recharge basins in the area. Consequently, this has allowed the city to cultivate the park as a riparian and wetland habitat that the community can enjoy. Opened to the public in 2008, Veterans Oasis Park offers an array of attractions for nature lovers.
Veterans Oasis Park Factoid: The entire park covers approximately 113 acres, with 78 acres specifically designed for groundwater recharge and wetland restoration.
1. Environmental Education Center
The Environmental Education Center serves as a hub for learning and community activities. It features meeting rooms, a collection of reading materials, an eco-friendly gift shop, and an engaging reptile exhibit. Visitors can explore a timeline photo gallery showcasing the park’s development. Moreover, this center offers a range of nature-based programs focused on conservation, local flora and fauna, and fostering appreciation for the desert environment.
Factoid: There are public restrooms both inside and outside the Environmental Education Center.
2. Nature and Environmental Programs
Hiking and biking trails provide visitors with opportunities to explore the scenic wetland area. In addition, guided programs such as bird walks, fishing clinics, and family nature walks are offered regularly to enhance the experience. Horseback riding is permitted on designated Equestrian Trails; however, riders must enter from outside the park as equestrian parking is not available within the park.
Factoid: A human sundial located near the play area allows visitors to tell the time during daylight hours!
3. Urban Fishing at Veterans Oasis Park
Fishermen can enjoy the thrill of catching a variety of species in the 5-acre lake, such as channel catfish, rainbow trout, and largemouth bass. While catch-and-release is not required, specific limitations apply to fishing. Check the daily bag and possession limits posted on-site.
The lake has an average depth of 12 feet and a maximum depth of 14 feet. An Urban Fishing License is a necessity, which must be acquired prior to visiting. Note that swimming, wading, and the use of glass containers are prohibited. A city permit is required for presence of alcoholic beverages.
Factoid: Boating is permitted, provided that no motors are used and boats are carried from the main parking lot located south of the lake. A City of Chandler boating permit is also required.
4. Play Areas and Picnic Ramadas
Beyond trails and programs, Veterans Oasis Park offers a serene spot for families to enjoy playtime and picnics. Pets are welcome, provided owners clean up after them. Picnic ramadas are conveniently located near the Urban Fishing Lake, and some are equipped with barbecue grills for family cookouts. A nominal fee applies to reserve a ramada.
Factoid: Swing sets are not available, but children are encouraged to explore and climb on nearby boulders in sandy and grassy areas adjacent to the Environmental Education Center.
5. Little Kids, Big Kids and Adults
Veterans Oasis Park, alongside the Environmental Education Center, provides nature-related programs for participants of all ages. Preschoolers can engage in crafts, music, stories, and movies, while older children may enjoy geocaching or creating art and learning about desert wildlife. Adults and teens can partake in various guided activities, conservation programs, and fitness classes. Program details can be found in the City of Chandler recreation listings, with registration typically required unless specified otherwise.
If you’re seeking activities for children during school breaks, consider the Summer Nature Camp at the Environmental Education Center, an enriching option for young explorers.
Factoid: Veterans Oasis Park hosts over four miles of trails ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts.
6. Location, Hours, Admission
Situated in Chandler, Arizona, Veterans Oasis Park is home to the Environmental Education Center.
Veterans Oasis Park Address
4050 E. Chandler Heights Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85249
Phone: 480-782-2890
The park is conveniently located near the intersection of Chandler Heights and Lindsay Roads. Note that online mapping services may sometimes provide incorrect mapping for this address.
Directions to the Park:
From the North and West: Take I-10 East to the San Tan Loop 202 East. Exit Loop 202 at Exit 44 (Gilbert Rd). Drive south to Chandler Heights Road. Turn east just past Lindsay. The park entrance is on the north side of Chandler Heights Road.
From the East: Take the San Tan Loop 202 West. Exit Loop 202 at Val Vista Drive. Drive south to Chandler Heights Road. Turn east just before Lindsay. The park entrance is on the north side of Chandler Heights Road.
See this location on a Google map. Zoom in and out for more detailed directions or nearby attractions.
The Environmental Education Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 or 8 p.m. on weekdays, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays, and closed all day on Sundays. Veterans Oasis Park is accessible daily from 6 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; the preserve opens daily and closes at sunset.
Admission to Veterans Oasis Park and the Environmental Education Center is free, although a fee may apply for program participation.
Explore Veterans Oasis Park online.
Note: All dates, times, prices, and offerings are subject to change without notice.
