Oak Creek

This clear canyon stream may be one of the most scenic fishing and swimming holes in the world. Oak Creek flows through a narrow gorge it has cut along a fault line in the same rock strata that form the Grand Canyon. But this smaller cousin of the world's most prestigious chasm, is much more accessible than its more famous relative. A road leads right down the middle of it. And if you'd really like to get to know these crimson cliffs and crystal pools up close and personal, there are plenty of overlooks and picnic areas, hiking trails and creekside paths to help you do it.

Location: 14 miles south of Flagstaff on paved roads. Elevation is around 5,000 feet.

Access: Drive south from Flagstaff on Hwy. 89A. 14 miles down the road it drops nearly a thousand feet down a series of switchbacks to the canyon floor and continues for 13 more miles beside cool, clear Oak Creek.

Campground Season: Early Spring through mid-Fall (or first snowfall). Manzanita Campground is open yearround.

Attractions: Fishing, Waterplay, Hiking, Biking , Sightseeing, Wildlife viewing, Photography

Facilities:, 5 developed campgrounds, 5 picnic areas, hiking trails, developed services and interpretation at Slide Rock and Red Rock State Parks.

Notes:
Oak Creek Canyon can be very crowded.
Campgrounds usually fill early.
No glass containers permitted at Slide Rock State Park.
Drive carefully.

For more information contact:
Red Rock Ranger District, P.O. Box 20249, Sedona AZ 86341, (928) 282-4119