Fossil Creek permits on sale now: Here’s how to get one
Spring break is right around the corner and it’s a perfect opportunity to take the kids out for some Arizona sunshine, fresh air and family bonding.
What better way to accomplish all three than with horses, history and beautiful views? Giddy-up and get your kids ready to ride horseback. These local horse-riding outfitters will have your family in the saddle, no experience necessary.
As winter gives way to spring and summer peers around the corner, it’s not uncommon to hear Arizonans start lamenting how the heat will curb their outdoor activities. A popular oasis in Coconino National Forest north of Phoenix is a good place to cool off any heat-related worries.
Fossil Creek, formed by a series of natural springs and tumbling over travertine formations, provides a wide array of recreational opportunities for anyone wanting to fight off the searing Arizona sun. But Fossil Creek’s swimming holes and scenery draw hordes of visitors. So anyone who wants to experience its pristine water from April through October must show a permit. Here’s what to know about getting a Fossil Creek reservation.
Is Fossil Creek open?
Fossil Creek Wilderness is open all year. You need a permit to visit between April 1 and Oct. 1. Permits are checked when you arrive and those without will be turned away. Camping is prohibited in the permit area during this period. Day use hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Permits are not required between Oct. 2 and March 31. The roads are open
In metro Phoenix, most K-12 public schools are on spring break the weeks of March 8 and March 15. These authentic Western trail rides are an easy drive from the Phoenix area. Be sure to ask about COVID-19 precautions when you make your reservations.
Saguaro Lake Ranch Stable
If you’re looking for a bit of history with your trail ride, check out Saguaro Lake Ranch Stable northeast of Mesa.
24 hours and camping is allowed downstream of Fossil Creek Bridge. Camps must be at least 100 feet from the creek. Camping is prohibited within a quartermile on either side of Fossil Creek Bridge and Fossil Creek Dam. Backpackers may camp upstream of the Old Fossil Creek Dam.
How to get a 2021 permit
To get a Fossil Creek permit, visit https://www.recreation.gov and search for “Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River.”
Permits go on sale one month before the month of use. For example, April permits are on sale in March. Permits for May go on sale April 1. Permits are not issued on site.
Fossil Creek parking lots near Camp Verde
Permits cost $6 per day and are good for a specific parking lot. Visitors must bring a printed copy of their permit and may park only in the assigned lot.
Eight Fossil Creek parking lots can be reached from Camp Verde:
Waterfall.
Irving.
Tonto Bench.
Fossil Creek Bridge.
Homestead.
Sally May.
Purple Mountain.
Mazatzal.
Fossil Creek near Strawberry: Bob Bear Trail
Visitors wanting to hike the Bob Bear Trail to Fossil Creek are in for a strenuous workout. The difficult hike is 8 miles round trip and is recommended for experienced hikers.
This hike is very hot and sunny in the summer and hikers of all levels should bring water, snacks, good footwear and sun protection to avoid needing to be rescued. The trailhead is on FR 708 near Strawberry. Horse trailer parking is available at the trailhead.
To get a permit for the Bob Bear Trail (formerly the Fossil Springs Trail), go to https://www.recreation.gov and search for “Bob Bear Trailhead.”
Why are Fossil Creek permits required?
The permit system was implemented to manage the number of visitors and reduce the trash that degraded the area and could fuel wildfires, Coconino National Forest Public Affairs Officer Brady Smith told The Arizona Republic.
“Before the reservation system, we didn’t have a safe way for people to get in and out of the area,” Smith said. “And if there were to be a wildfire that broke, it’s near impossible to manage the amount of trash that was being left in Fossil Creek because we had so many people down there.
“So now when people come in during this time, which is the peak, they need a printed permit when they show up so they can gain access that essentially allows them a parking spot at one of the eight different parking spots down by creekside on Fossil Creek.”
Fossil Creek directions
Via Camp Verde: From central Phoenix, take Interstate 17 north to Camp Verde (Exit 287). Go east on State Route 260 for about 10 miles to Fossil Creek Road (Forest Road 708). Turn right and take the dirt road about 14 miles to the Fossil Springs Wilderness boundary. The road is graded and suitable for most cars but you may be more comfortable in a high-clearance vehicle.
Via Strawberry: From central Phoenix, take Loop 202 east to State Route 87 and go north through Payson and Pine to Strawberry. Turn left on FR 708 and go x miles to the Bob Bear parking lot.
Note: A 4-mile section of FR 708 from the Bob Bear Trailhead to the Waterfall Trailhead is closed because of road damage. Visitors cannot drive between the two Fossil Creek access points.