Dead Horse Ranch State Park in Cottonwood will celebrate its 24th annual Verde River Day on Saturday, September 29, 2012. Arizona State Parks has waived park entrance fees for all visitors attending the event. All of the activities are at no cost, thanks to the many exhibitors and sponsors.

Verde River Day promotes preservation and care of the environment by showcasing informative exhibits on the Verde's unique riparian habitat.

Some of the day's events include a climbing wall, organized canoe and kayak rides, sand castle building, and nature-based exhibits. Guests of all ages are welcome to fish in the lagoon that is loaded with hundreds of pounds of catfish. Poles, bait and tackle are provided for all ages. No fishing license is needed. Visitors may also experience nature's history through guided nature walks. There will be a wide range of entertainment throughout the day.

Enjoy a guided tour of the river by a hydrologist and the best pancake breakfast. Non-Profit Food vendors will be cooking up Indian Fry bread, hot dogs and Hamburgers for nominal fees.

Travel back in time and see the Arizona Civil War Re-enactment. Volunteer historians wear exact copies of Civil War Union blue and Confederate-grey uniforms. See the cannons and artillery of the time. See the parade of blue and grey.

Try pottery making by hand and take your creation home with you . See the live birds and reptiles.

Verde River Day was organized in 1988 to promote awareness of the Verde River's distinctive riparian habitat, where 85 percent of all wildlife in the area looks for sustenance.

For more information about Verde River Day, call (928) 634-5283.