Veterans Oasis Park Chandler AZ: Memorial, Nature Center & Veteran Benefits Guide
Veterans Oasis Park is a 113-acre multi-use recreation and memorial park at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road in Chandler, Arizona. It features the Field of Honor Veterans Memorial, a 5-acre urban fishing lake, 4.5 miles of trails, the Chandler Nature Center, and the F-86 Sabre aircraft honoring Williams Air Force Base. Admission and parking are free.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Name | Veterans Oasis Park |
| Location | 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85249 |
| Size | 113 acres |
| Operated By | City of Chandler Community Services Department |
| Phone | 480-782-2890 |
| Hours | 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily |
| Admission | Free |
| Key Features | Field of Honor Memorial, F-86 aircraft, urban fishing lake, trails, Chandler Nature Center |
| Veterans Memorial | Field of Honor, dedicated Veterans Day 2021 |
| Recognition Wall | Accepting nominations for local veterans |
| Official Website | chandleraz.gov |
| Updated For | 2026 |
What Is Veterans Oasis Park in Chandler, AZ?
Veterans Oasis Park is a 113-acre multi-use recreational park located at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road in southeast Chandler, Arizona, at the northeast corner of Lindsay and Chandler Heights roads. The park combines outdoor recreation—including fishing, hiking, birding, and horseback riding—with a dedicated veterans memorial space known as the Field of Honor.
The park receives approximately 78 of its 113 acres as designated groundwater recharge and wetlands, creating a riparian environment that attracts more than 153 documented bird species. This unique combination of desert and wetland habitats makes Veterans Oasis Park one of the most ecologically diverse public spaces in Maricopa County.
Park Hours and Admission
Veterans Oasis Park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Admission to the park and the Chandler Nature Center is free. There are no entrance fees or permits required to access the park or hike its trails. Parking is available on-site at no charge.
Why Veterans Oasis Park Matters for the Military Community
Veterans Oasis Park serves as the primary veterans memorial site for the Southeast Valley, honoring veterans from Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, and the Gila River Indian Reservation. The park’s Field of Honor Memorial is the first veterans memorial of its size and scope in the Southeast Valley, and the site also features a Korean War-era F-86 Sabre aircraft that honors the legacy of Williams Air Force Base, which operated in the region from 1941 to 1993.
Field of Honor Veterans Memorial
The Field of Honor is a 1.5-acre veterans memorial located on the southwest corner of Veterans Oasis Park. It was dedicated on Veterans Day 2021 after nearly a decade of planning and community engagement. The memorial honors veterans from all branches of the U.S. military and is designed to provide a quiet space for reflection and remembrance.
Design and Symbolism
The Field of Honor was designed with deep symbolic meaning. Key design elements include:
Lower level – Designed to match the exact ratio of the American flag, with illuminated plinths arranged to represent stars and stripes. The red, white, and blue lights create a proportional flag display.
Upper level – The Arizona Star Overlook, an elevated plaza shaped to resemble the Arizona State Flag, represents the perspective of families waiting and watching for loved ones to return home.
21 illuminated cubes – A group of 21 cubes in the center represents service members lost in the line of duty, reflecting the meaning of a 21-gun salute.
Six memorial themes – The design incorporates freedom, recognition, reflection, sacrifice, memories, and family—themes developed through consultation with more than 10 veterans’ groups.
F-86 Sabre Aircraft Display
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilityOverlooking the Field of Honor is a Korean War-era F-86 Sabre aircraft. The plane was relocated to Veterans Oasis Park to honor the history of Williams Air Force Base and features a plaque honoring the military men and women who served at the base from 1941 to 1993.
Field of Honor Recognition Wall
Chandler is expanding the Field of Honor to include a recognition wall that displays the names, ranks, and branches of local veterans. This wall provides a permanent tribute to individual veterans with ties to the Southeast Valley.
Who Qualifies for the Recognition Wall
Veterans who received an honorable discharge from U.S. military service
Veterans who lived within the Southeast Valley (Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, or the Gila River Indian Reservation)
How to Apply
Visit the Field of Honor page on the City of Chandler website (chandleraz.gov)
Complete the nomination application with basic information about the veteran
Provide proof of Southeast Valley residency
Provide proof of military service (DD Form 214 or equivalent)
Submit a minimum $50 donation for approved nominations
Applications remain open while space is available, and plaques are updated several times throughout the year. For questions about the recognition wall, contact Chandler Recreation Services at 480-782-2727 or csadmin@chandleraz.gov.
Park Amenities and Recreation
Veterans Oasis Park offers a wide range of recreational activities for veterans, military families, and the general public. The park is designed to be accessible for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Urban Fishing Lake
The park features a 5-acre community fishing lake stocked with Channel catfish, Rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, and bluegill. The Arizona Game and Fish Department stocks the lake during fall, winter, and spring seasons. An Arizona fishing license is required for anglers age 10 and older and can be obtained from the Arizona Game & Fish Department.
Trails and Walking Paths
Veterans Oasis Park has 4.5 miles of trails suitable for walking, hiking, and horseback riding. The Veterans Oasis Park Loop Trail is an easy 1.8-mile (2.9 km) route that typically takes 45 minutes to an hour to complete at a moderate pace. The trails provide access to the park’s riparian habitats and wildlife viewing areas.
Chandler Solar System Walk
The park features a self-guided Solar System Walk stretching 2,500 feet around the lake. The path includes monuments and signs representing the sun, planets, and celestial objects, making it both educational and recreational for families visiting the park.
Picnic Areas and Ramadas
Veterans Oasis Park has multiple ramadas (covered picnic shelters) available for reservation. All ramadas are located close to the Urban Fishing Lake and include accessible facilities and barbecue grills. Rental costs are $3 per hour for Chandler residents and $4 per hour for non-residents.
Desert Trails and Wildlife Viewing
The park’s desert trails provide opportunities to observe native cacti, desert plants, and wildlife including roadrunners, herons, ducks, and rabbits. With 78 acres designated as groundwater recharge and wetlands, the park attracts a wide variety of birds and desert wildlife throughout the year.
Urban Birding
Veterans Oasis Park is considered a premier bird-watching destination in the Phoenix metropolitan area. More than 153 bird species have been documented in the park’s riparian environments. The Desert Rivers Audubon Society conducts guided bird walks on the first Saturday of the month from November to April. These walks are designed for both beginning and experienced birders.
Chandler Nature Center
The Chandler Nature Center is located within Veterans Oasis Park and serves as the gateway to the park’s natural and educational programming. The center is dedicated to providing affordable recreation and leisure opportunities that emphasize nature, science, and the environment.
What the Nature Center Offers
Nature-oriented educational programs for all ages
Environmental science exhibits and displays
Guided nature walks and programs
Birding tours and wildlife education
School field trip programs
Community events like the annual Dragonfly & Butterfly Bash
The Nature Center is open Monday through Saturday with varying hours by day. Admission to the Nature Center is free. For current hours and program schedules, call 480-782-2890 or visit the Chandler Nature Center page on chandleraz.gov.
Educational Programs for Military Families
The Chandler Nature Center offers affordable recreation and educational programs that are particularly well-suited for military families seeking outdoor activities. Programs cover topics including desert ecology, wildlife identification, and environmental science. These programs provide constructive activities for children of active duty, National Guard, and Reserve service members.
Events at Veterans Oasis Park
Veterans Oasis Park hosts community events throughout the year, with several focused on honoring veterans and military service.
Sonoran Sunset Series
The Sonoran Sunset Series is a free outdoor concert series held at Veterans Oasis Park. The series runs monthly on the third Thursday from October through March, with performances from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.. The concerts feature local artists performing folk, rock, indie, and alternative music in the park’s outdoor amphitheater setting. Seating is first-come, first-served; attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Small coolers with snacks and beverages are permitted, but alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
Veterans Day Ceremony
Chandler hosts its annual Veterans Day event at the Field of Honor within Veterans Oasis Park. The ceremony typically begins at 5:00 p.m. and includes acknowledgments recognizing local veterans, speakers, and community tributes. The event is free and open to the public, with free parking available on-site. This ceremony serves as the primary Veterans Day observance for the Southeast Valley and provides an opportunity for the community to honor those who have served.
Military Appreciation Events
The City of Chandler hosts additional military appreciation events in conjunction with Veterans Day, including an annual Military Appreciation Breakfast for active duty, retired service members, and their families. These events connect the local military community with resources and recognition.
Bird Walks
The Desert Rivers Audubon Society leads family bird walks at Veterans Oasis Park on the first Saturday of the month from November through April. The walks run from 8:00 a.m. to noon and are suitable for all experience levels. The park’s diverse habitats make it one of the best birding locations in the Phoenix area.
How to Get to Veterans Oasis Park
Veterans Oasis Park is located at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85249, at the northeast corner of Lindsay and Chandler Heights roads.
Directions
From Loop 202 (SanTan Freeway):
Exit at Lindsay Road
Head south on Lindsay Road
Turn east on Chandler Heights Road
The park entrance is on the left
From Loop 101 (Price Freeway) or Arizona Avenue:
Take Chandler Heights Road east
The park entrance is on the left after Lindsay Road
GPS Coordinates:Â 33.235029, -111.770735
Parking
Extensive free parking is available at the park, with additional parking areas near the Field of Honor memorial and the Chandler Nature Center. During major events such as the Veterans Day ceremony and Sonoran Sunset Series concerts, attendees are encouraged to arrive early as parking fills quickly.
Public Transit
Chandler does not have a light rail system, but Valley Metro bus routes serve portions of Chandler. For current route information, visit valleymetro.org or call 602-253-5000.
Arizona Veterans Benefits for 2026
Veterans living in Chandler and the Southeast Valley have access to federal VA benefits and Arizona state veterans benefits. This section explains the key programs and how to apply.
What Is the Arizona Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans?
Arizona HB 2792, enacted in 2026, provides a full property tax exemption on the entire value of a primary residence for qualifying veterans rated 100 percent service-connected disabled by the VA. This is one of the most significant veteran benefits in Arizona and represents thousands of dollars in annual savings for eligible veterans.
Who Qualifies
Veterans with a VA disability rating of 100 percent service-connected
Veterans who own and occupy the property as their primary residence
Why It Matters
Property taxes in Arizona can amount to several thousand dollars annually. A full exemption provides substantial, ongoing financial relief for severely disabled veterans.
What You Should Do Next
Contact the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office at 602-506-3406 to request the exemption application. The benefit for qualifying veterans is reflected in their first property tax payments due in October 2026.
What Is the Arizona Military Family Relief Fund?
The Arizona Military Family Relief Fund (MFRF) provides financial assistance to families of active duty, Reserve, and National Guard service members who are experiencing financial hardship related to military service. Governor Hobbs’s FY27 budget proposal eliminates the sunset clause for the MFRF, which was scheduled to end after 2027, ensuring the program continues.
Who Qualifies
Families of Arizona National Guard members and Reserve component service members
Families experiencing financial hardship due to deployment or military service
Why It Matters
The MFRF provides emergency financial assistance when military service creates economic hardship for families. The elimination of the sunset clause ensures long-term availability.
What You Should Do Next
Contact the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services (ADVS) at 602-255-3373 or visit dvs.az.gov to learn about current MFRF application periods and eligibility requirements.
Arizona State Parks Veteran Discount
Arizona offers veterans a discounted annual pass to state parks. The Arizona State Parks Premium Annual Pass is available to veterans at a reduced rate with valid military identification.
Who Qualifies
All honorably discharged veterans
Active duty, Reserve, and National Guard members
What You Should Do Next
Visit azstateparks.com to purchase a veteran annual pass. Bring your DD Form 214 or VA ID card.
VA Healthcare in the Phoenix Area
The Phoenix VA Health Care System provides healthcare services to veterans at 13 locations across central Arizona, including the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center and community-based outpatient clinics. The Phoenix VA Health Care System also conducts outreach events in Chandler, including the annual Matthew B. Juan American Legion Post 35 Veteran Stand Down, which connects veterans with health care and resources.
Who Qualifies
Veterans who served on active duty and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable
Enrollment priority is based on service-connected disabilities, income, and other factors
Why It Matters
VA healthcare provides comprehensive medical services including primary care, mental health, specialty care, and prescription coverage—often at no cost to the veteran.
What You Should Do Next
Call the Phoenix VA Health Care System at 602-277-5551 to enroll or visit va.gov/health-care to apply online. Bring your DD Form 214 and any prior medical records.
Arizona Veterans Education Benefits
Arizona offers several education-related benefits for veterans and their dependents:
| Benefit | Details | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Waiver | Tuition waivers at Arizona public universities | Children of certain veterans |
| GI Bill | Federal education benefits | All eligible veterans |
| Arizona National Guard Tuition | 100% tuition at state universities | AZ National Guard members |
Arizona HB2240, currently under consideration in the 2026 legislative session, would expand tuition waiver benefits for children of veterans.
What You Should Do Next
For GI Bill benefits: Apply through va.gov/education or call 1-888-442-4551
For state tuition waivers: Contact the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services at 602-255-3373
Common Questions
What is Veterans Oasis Park known for?
Veterans Oasis Park is known for its 113-acre recreation area with the Field of Honor Veterans Memorial, a 5-acre urban fishing lake, 4.5 miles of trails, the Chandler Nature Center, and a Korean War-era F-86 Sabre aircraft. It is the primary veterans memorial site for the Southeast Valley.
Is there an entrance fee for Veterans Oasis Park?
No, admission to Veterans Oasis Park and the Chandler Nature Center is free. There are no entrance fees or permits required to access the park or its trails. Ramada reservations and fishing licenses may have associated costs.
How do I add a veteran to the Field of Honor recognition wall?
Nominations are accepted through the City of Chandler website. The veteran must have been honorably discharged and lived in the Southeast Valley (Chandler, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, or Gila River Indian Reservation). Applications require proof of residency, proof of military service, and a minimum $50 donation.
What events honor veterans at Veterans Oasis Park?
The park hosts an annual Veterans Day ceremony at the Field of Honor, typically beginning at 5:00 p.m. on November 11. The park also hosts the free Sonoran Sunset Series concerts monthly from October through March, and guided bird walks from November through April.
What are the park hours at Veterans Oasis Park?
Veterans Oasis Park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. The Chandler Nature Center has separate hours that vary by day. Call 480-782-2890 for current Nature Center hours.
How do I contact Veterans Oasis Park?
The park’s main phone number is 480-782-2890. The address is 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road, Chandler, AZ 85249. For memorial-specific questions, contact Chandler Recreation Services at 480-782-2727 or csadmin@chandleraz.gov.
Is there a VA clinic near Chandler, AZ?
The Phoenix VA Health Care System operates 13 locations across central Arizona, including community-based outpatient clinics in the Phoenix metropolitan area. The main facility is the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix. Call 602-277-5551 to find the nearest location.
What is the Arizona property tax exemption for disabled veterans?
Arizona HB 2792 provides a full property tax exemption on the entire value of a primary residence for veterans rated 100 percent service-connected disabled by the VA. The exemption appears on property tax payments due in October 2026. Contact the Maricopa County Assessor’s Office at 602-506-3406 to apply.
Can I fish at Veterans Oasis Park?
Yes, the park has a 5-acre urban fishing lake stocked with Channel catfish, Rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, and bluegill. An Arizona fishing license is required for anglers age 10 and older and can be obtained from the Arizona Game & Fish Department.
Is Veterans Oasis Park accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Yes, the park is designed with accessible facilities including accessible ramadas, paved trails, and accessible restrooms. The Field of Honor memorial has paved pathways and is designed for visitors of all mobility levels. For specific accessibility questions, call 480-782-2890.
What military base does the F-86 Sabre at Veterans Oasis Park honor?
The F-86 Sabre aircraft at Veterans Oasis Park honors Williams Air Force Base, which operated in the Southeast Valley from 1941 to 1993. A plaque on the aircraft display honors the military men and women who served at the base.
Are pets allowed at Veterans Oasis Park?
Pets are allowed at Veterans Oasis Park but must be leashed and under control. Visitors should be aware of desert hazards including jumping cholla cactus, which can injure pets that wander off trails.
Key Takeaways
Veterans Oasis Park is a 113-acre multi-use park at 4050 E. Chandler Heights Road in Chandler, AZ, featuring the Field of Honor Veterans Memorial, a 5-acre fishing lake, 4.5 miles of trails, and the Chandler Nature Center.
The Field of Honor is a 1.5-acre memorial dedicated on Veterans Day 2021, designed to match the exact ratio of the American flag and incorporating six memorial themes: freedom, recognition, reflection, sacrifice, memories, and family.
A recognition wall is being expanded at the Field of Honor to display the names, ranks, and branches of local veterans. Nominations require honorable discharge, Southeast Valley residency, and a $50 minimum donation.
Admission and parking are free at Veterans Oasis Park and the Chandler Nature Center.
The F-86 Sabre aircraft on display honors Williams Air Force Base (1941–1993) and overlooks the Field of Honor memorial.
Arizona HB 2792Â provides a full property tax exemption for 100% service-connected disabled veterans, effective for tax payments due in October 2026.
The Sonoran Sunset Series offers free monthly concerts at the park from October through March.
VA healthcare is available through the Phoenix VA Health Care System, which operates 13 locations across central Arizona.
The park hosts annual Veterans Day ceremonies at the Field of Honor, typically beginning at 5:00 p.m. on November 11.
Arizona offers state-level benefits including the Military Family Relief Fund, state park discounts, and education benefits for veterans and dependents.
Official Resources
| Resource | Contact | Services |
|---|---|---|
| Veterans Oasis Park | 480-782-2890 | Park information, events, reservations |
| Chandler Nature Center | 480-782-2890 | Educational programs, nature exhibits |
| Field of Honor Memorial | 480-782-2727 | Recognition wall nominations, memorial info |
| Phoenix VA Health Care System | 602-277-5551 | Healthcare enrollment, appointments |
| Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services | 602-255-3373 | State benefits, claims assistance |
| Maricopa County Assessor | 602-506-3406 | Property tax exemption applications |
| VA.gov | va.gov | Federal benefits, claims, healthcare enrollment |
| Arizona State Parks | azstateparks.com | Veteran park passes |
| Arizona Game & Fish | azgfd.com | Fishing licenses |
| USA.gov | usa.gov | Government services directory |
Important:Â Always verify current information by contacting the agency directly. Benefits programs, eligibility requirements, and contact information may change.
🇺🇸 IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER – Veterans Benefits Information
This site provides general information about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits for educational and informational purposes only.
- Not Official: We are NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), or any other government agency.
- No Legal/Financial Advice: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or medical advice. VA benefits rules change frequently – always consult with an accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) or a qualified professional for your specific situation.
- Official Sources: For official, binding information and to apply for benefits, always visit official .gov websites: VA.gov, Benefits.VA.gov, or SSA.gov.
- No Data Collection: This site does not collect, store, or process any personal information. It does not have login forms, contact forms, or any system to capture user data. We never ask for your Social Security Number, bank details, or any personal information.
- 🚨 Scam Alert: The VA and other government agencies never charge fees for benefit applications. If anyone asks for money to "process" your VA claim, it is a scam. Report it to the VA Office of Inspector General at VA.gov/OIG.
- Advertising: This site uses third-party advertising (Adsterra) to cover operational costs. We do not endorse or guarantee any products or services advertised.
📌 Information provided as of June 2026. Always verify current eligibility and rules with official .gov sources.
This site is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any government agency. All information is for educational purposes only. Please visit VA.gov for official information.
