🏊 Natural Swimming
🔴 Difficult $6/vehicle permit required (April 1 – Oct 1) Reservation Required
🌊 About Fossil Creek
One of only two federally designated Wild & Scenic Rivers in Arizona; over 30 million gallons of 70°F spring water surface daily, creating travertine pools famous for their clarity and a ~25-ft cliff-jump spot.
📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$6/vehicle permit required (April 1 – Oct 1)
Water Temperature
💧 ~70°F year-round (spring-fed)
Best Season
📅 Year-round; water constant ~70°F
Water Type
Wild & Scenic spring-fed creek, multiple swim spots
Managed By
US Forest Service (Coconino & Tonto National Forests)
County
Yavapai / Gila County, Arizona
Access Difficulty
🔴 Difficult
🗺️ Getting There
Address / Access Point:
Fossil Creek Rd (FR 708), off Hwy 260, near Camp Verde/Strawberry
Access Notes:
Rough forest roads; short hike to swimming hole near bridge, longer/strenuous ~4-mile hike to the waterfall from Strawberry side
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
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Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
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Reservation required — book in advance or you may be turned away
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Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
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Bring cash or card for entry: $6/vehicle permit required (April 1 – Oct 1)
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
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Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
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Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace