Red Rock State Park
Discover stunning red rock formations and Oak Creek's lush beauty on scenic trails. A peaceful nature preserve offering breathtaking vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Red Rock State Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover stunning red rock formations and Oak Creek's lush beauty on scenic trails. A peaceful nature preserve offering breathtaking vistas.
"The views are truly spectacular as you can see a lot of the main Red Rock formations from here."
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Arizona sun is intense. Stay hydrated on trails to avoid exhaustion .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are not paved, so sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Eagle's Nest Trail
Red Rock State Park
A moderate 3-mile loop offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding red rock formations and Oak Creek.
Oak Creek Trail
Red Rock State Park
An easy, short trail (.4 miles) that meanders along the lush greenery of Oak Creek, offering a peaceful nature walk.
Visitor Center
Red Rock State Park
Explore interpretive displays and a movie theater to learn about the park's natural history and geology.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Red Rock State Park
Entrance Fees and What to Expect
Trails are not paved, so wear appropriate footwear for your hike.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Arizona sun is intense. Stay hydrated on trails to avoid exhaustion.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are not paved, so sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring.
💰 Per Person Entrance Fee
Be aware it's $10 per person, not per car, so factor this into your budget.
🚶♀️ Ranger-Guided Walks
Join a free guided nature walk daily at 10 AM for insights into the park.
Easy trail with the beautiful red rocks. First time in Sedona.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The Arizona sun is intense. Stay hydrated on trails to avoid exhaustion.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are not paved, so sturdy walking or hiking shoes are a must for exploring.
💰 Per Person Entrance Fee
Be aware it's $10 per person, not per car, so factor this into your budget.
🚶♀️ Ranger-Guided Walks
Join a free guided nature walk daily at 10 AM for insights into the park.
📸 Capture the Views
The park offers spectacular views of Sedona's iconic red rock formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular views and well-maintained trails at Red Rock State Park, highlighting its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. While the per-person entrance fee is noted as a potential drawback for larger groups, the overall experience is highly recommended for its scenic hikes and educational visitor center.
"Came here for hikes twice with my wife. Really love how secluded it was as you hike outward. The views are truly spectacular as you can see a lot of the main Red Rock formations from here. Trail was well maintained and relatively bug free. We did see some private property along the way but generally well marked. If you are into moderate hikes with great scenery then this is definitely the right place. Just be sure to bring a few bottles of water."
Andy
"The park is very nice and underrated. Tons of nice trails and a nice mini museum inside the visitor center. Bring tons of water or gatorade, as the hot weather plus the hiking trails can make you exhausted. Nice scenery. 100% would recommend to a friend or family to visit. Nice wildlife too."
Axel
"Excellent drive with places to stop off for pictures. The park itself has 5 trails including on just .4 miles along a stream. Others are 1 to 3 miles long. Possible wildlife sightings but we only saw some birds. Peaceful environment. Picked up a cool new ornament in visitor center. Trails are not paved."
Kendall Horween
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Red Rock State Park is located about an hour's drive from Cottonwood, Arizona. From Sedona, you'll typically take AZ-89A South and then follow signs for the park. It's a scenic drive, and the park is well-marked.
Yes, parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Arriving early in the morning is recommended to secure a spot.
Public transportation options directly to Red Rock State Park are limited. It's generally recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride-sharing service.
From Sedona, head south on AZ-89A. Turn onto Red Rock State Park Road and follow the signs. The park is approximately 10 miles south of the Village of Oak Creek.
The park roads are generally accessible for most vehicles, including RVs. However, parking availability for larger vehicles might be limited during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $10 per person, not per vehicle. This fee helps support the park's maintenance and operations. Consider purchasing an Arizona State Parks Pass if you plan to visit multiple parks.
The park is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Arizona State Parks website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for the visitor center.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. However, if you are planning a group visit or special event, it's advisable to contact the park management in advance.
Discounts may be available for Arizona State Parks Pass holders, seniors, or military personnel. Check the official Arizona State Parks website for current discount information.
Pets are generally not allowed on the trails or in the visitor center at Red Rock State Park to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment. Service animals are typically permitted.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Eagle's Nest Trail (moderate, 3 miles) for panoramic views and the Oak Creek Trail (easy, .4 miles) along the creek. The park offers a family-oriented trail system with interconnecting loops.
No, the trails at Red Rock State Park are not paved. They are natural dirt paths, so wearing appropriate hiking footwear is essential.
The park features a visitor center with interpretive displays and a movie theater.
Yes, visitors have reported seeing wildlife, including birds and other small animals. Keep a respectful distance and do not feed the animals.
Yes, the park offers family-oriented trails suitable for various ages. The Oak Creek Trail is a good option for younger children due to its ease and proximity to the creek.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along the Eagle's Nest Trail offer stunning panoramic shots of the Sedona red rocks. The Oak Creek area provides beautiful shots with lush greenery contrasting the red landscape.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with the 'golden hour' creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors on the red rocks.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Arizona State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
Yes, but always maintain a safe and respectful distance. Use a telephoto lens to get close-up shots without disturbing the animals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The Oak Creek Trail is a gentle, short path that runs alongside the creek, offering a pleasant and accessible walk for even the youngest adventurers. It's a great spot for kids to explore the natural environment safely.Beyond the trails, the Visitor Center provides educational exhibits and a movie theater that can engage children and teach them about the local ecosystem. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as outdoor activities can be tiring for kids. The park's natural beauty and opportunities for exploration make it a memorable experience for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic lunch and plenty of water to avoid purchasing expensive food and drinks within or near the park. Focus on enjoying the hiking trails, which are the park's main attraction and offer incredible scenery for free once the entrance fee is paid. If you plan on visiting multiple Arizona State Parks, look into purchasing an Arizona State Parks Pass for potential savings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails for Every Level
This trail is ideal for families with young children or those seeking a less strenuous walk.For those looking for more of a challenge and rewarding views, the Eagle's Nest Trail is a popular choice. This moderate, 3-mile loop provides spectacular panoramic vistas of the iconic Sedona red rock formations.
Remember that trails are unpaved and can be uneven. Sturdy hiking shoes are highly recommended for comfort and safety. Always carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months, as the Arizona sun can be intense. Check trail conditions before you go, particularly after any rainfall.
Understanding the Visitor Experience
There's also a movie theater that often screens informative films about the area, providing valuable context before you hit the trails.Many visitors appreciate the secluded feel of the park, noting that it feels less crowded than some of the more popular Sedona viewpoints.
While the park offers stunning views, some reviewers suggest that if you're not planning on hiking, the views from roadside lookouts might be comparable.
Photography Opportunities
For a different perspective, the Oak Creek Trail offers a more intimate photographic experience. The lush greenery along the creek, with the red rocks as a backdrop, creates a beautiful contrast. This area is perfect for capturing details of the riparian environment and the interplay of light and shadow through the trees.
The golden hours – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – are the most magical times for photography here. The low-angled sunlight bathes the red rocks in a warm, vibrant glow, creating dramatic shadows and highlighting the textures of the landscape. Be sure to bring a tripod for stable shots during these times and consider a telephoto lens for capturing any wildlife you might encounter.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit