Desert Awareness Park Honored as Iconic Landmark in Cave Creek

On Thursday, October 31, residents of Cave Creek gathered to celebrate the recognition of Desert Awareness Park as the newest Cave Creek Local Landmark. Attendees included members of the Cave Creek Museum Board of Directors, the Desert Awareness Committee, and the Town Council.

The Local Landmark program honors iconic sites within the community by awarding bronze plaques. These plaques allow visitors to access an interactive storytelling map, which can be accessed by scanning a QR code with their smartphones. The map showcases various destinations, enabling the community to explore the rich history of Cave Creek through the narratives of its pioneers and current residents.

Initiated in 2020, the Cave Creek Local Landmarks program aims to acknowledge unique locations throughout the area. Public recommendations for landmark sites are submitted and subsequently voted on by the Town Council. To date, 20 sites have been recognized, including notable places such as The Cave Creek Inn (now Oregano’s), Carpenters Trading Post (now Coyote Creek), and the local Dairy Queen, the only drive-thru fast food option in Town. Other recognized landmarks include Big Earl’s Greasy Eats, Harold’s Cave Creek Corral, and Hannah’s Chocolate House, now The Hideaway, as well as American Legion Post #34 and Desert Foothills Library.

Upcoming plaque dedication events will honor additional landmarks, including Black Mountain Summit on November 21, Cave Creek Regional Park, Cave Creek Rodeo Grounds, and Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area.

During the dedication ceremony, Lynn Walsh of the Desert Awareness Committee received the bronze plaque for Desert Awareness Park. Pictured alongside her are Cave Creek Mayor Robert Morris, Development Services Director Luke Kautzman, and Museum Board Member Colin “Buck” Columna.