Red Rock Ranger District Visitor Center
Visitor center
19.3 mi
4.8 (1868)
Red Rock Information Center, 8375 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86351
Restroom
CreekAZ
Sycamore Canyon
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan Sycamore Canyon via Parsons Trail near Clarkdale: creek crossings, wilderness rules, the full trail distance, ranger contact and reviewed canyon photos.
Water type
Creek
Access
Informal
Fee
The reviewed trail page does not publish an entry price. Check current access requirements with the Red Rock Ranger Visitor Center; no fee is guaranteed by this listing.
Best season
Choose a day with suitable road and creek conditions, enough daylight for the return and no threatening rain. Do not assume the monsoon season or a calendar month guarantees swimmable water
Nearby towns
Phoenix, Camp Verde, Clarkdale
Water body
Sycamore Creek
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Phoenix, Camp Verde, Clarkdale
Access location not verified
34.8805, -112.0699
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Sycamore Canyon
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Explore lower Sycamore Canyon on Parsons Trail
Near Clarkdale, Parsons Trail No. 144 follows a spring-fed creek through lower Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. The Forest Service trail page lists swimming among recreation opportunities. Treat this as a wilderness outing with changing water conditions, not a managed beach where every pool is suitable for every visitor.
Separate the full hike from a pool visit
The official trail distance is 3.3 miles one way, with approximately five hours for the full roundtrip. The initial descent is steep; the return includes climbing back out. Those figures describe the trail, not a guaranteed distance to the first pool. Leave enough daylight and energy for the return rather than using the old cairn-by-cairn directions.
Creek crossings determine whether the trip works
The trail crosses the creek repeatedly. The Forest Service warns that crossings can range from wet feet to impassable and that flooding can be rapid and unexpected in rainy periods. Check the weather and turn back when a crossing exceeds your ability. A quiet-looking gallery image is not evidence of today's flow, depth or water quality. Avoid jumping and diving.
Find the named trailhead
The official approach crosses the Verde River at the Tuzigoot turnoff, then turns left onto Forest Road 131 for about 11 miles to the trailhead. Ask the Red Rock Ranger Visitor Center at 928-203-2900 about road conditions, restrictions and access requirements. The legacy map pin is not a verified trailhead or water entry. Bring drinking water and supplies; no developed swimming facilities are established by the reviewed trail page.
Keep overnight plans outside the restricted corridor
Camping and campfires are prohibited within the first 3.7 miles of the valley. Where camping is allowed elsewhere, the trail page requires separation from springs and checking current fire restrictions. Book any developed campground as a separate part of the trip. Bicycles, strollers, carts and drones are among the mechanized equipment prohibited in the wilderness.
Read the photos as context
The selected gallery includes canyon scenery, a creek pool, a wilderness sign and the Parsons Trailhead information board. These are historical location-context photographs, not current notices or surveyed swimming-entry coordinates. Read the current official rules and posted signs when planning the visit.
Getting There
Use the official Parsons Trail No. 144 directions near Clarkdale. From the Tuzigoot turnoff, cross the Verde River, turn left onto Forest Road 131 and continue about 11 miles to the trailhead. Check road conditions with the ranger office before driving. Follow the signed trail; the retained legacy pin is not a verified parking or swimming-entry point. Do not navigate by an old rock cairn or assume a particular crossing remains passable.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
The Forest Service lists 3.3 miles one-way and approximately five hours roundtrip for the full trail. That is not a surveyed distance to every pool. Creek crossings can range from wet feet to impassable; turn back if conditions prevent a safe crossing.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Red Rock Ranger Station
Visitor center
19.4 mi
4.7 (144)
Red Rock Information Center, 8375 AZ-179, Sedona, AZ 86351
Restroom
Verde River RV Resort & Cottages
Campground
22.1 mi
4.5 (509)
1472 W Horseshoe Bend Dr, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Relaxed resort with cozy cottages & mountain views, plus an outdoor pool & a picnic area.
Free Wi-Fi
Verde Ranch RV Resort
Campground
22.9 mi
4.6 (1071)
1105 N Dreamcatcher Dr, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Free Wi-Fi
Camp Verde
Parking lot
23.2 mi
1851 Camp Verde-Bridgeport Hwy, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Copper Canyon Trailhead
Hiking area
25.2 mi
4.6 (127)
Fs 136, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Verde Ranger Station (recgovnpsdata)
Federal government office
26.1 mi
4 (2)
300 East AZ-260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Verde Valley Ryal Canyon Trailhead
Hiking area
26.7 mi
4.6 (26)
2317 S Salt Mine Rd, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Sycamore Canyon
Does the Forest Service list swimming at Parsons Trail?
Yes, swimming is listed among the recreation opportunities. That does not establish that any particular creek pool or crossing is suitable today.
How long is the full Parsons Trail hike?
The Forest Service lists 3.3 miles one way and approximately five hours roundtrip. Those figures describe the full trail rather than the distance to every creek pool.
Can we camp beside the pools in the lower valley?
Camping and campfires are prohibited within the first 3.7 miles of the valley. Check the official trail restrictions before making any overnight plans.
Are the creek crossings always passable?
No. The Forest Service warns that crossings can become impassable and that flooding can develop rapidly during rainy periods. Turn back rather than enter an unsafe crossing.
Can I bring a bicycle, stroller or drone into the wilderness?
No. The official trail page identifies these among the mechanized equipment prohibited in the wilderness.
Who can confirm road and access information?
Contact the Red Rock Ranger Visitor Center at 928-203-2900. The legacy listing pin is not a verified trailhead or swimming-entry location.
Highlights
Parsons Trail through lower Sycamore Canyon
Creek pools below colorful canyon cliffs
Wilderness and trailhead photographs with explicit context
Unique Features
Spring-fed riparian corridor inside Sycamore Canyon Wilderness
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Flooding can be rapid and unexpected during rainy periods
- Do not enter a flooded crossing, jump from cliffs or dive into unknown water
- A pool photograph does not establish current depth, water quality or suitability for children
- Carry drinking water rather than relying on untreated creek water
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
Sycamore Canyon has deep historical significance, with Native American tribes like the Sinagua leaving behind cliff dwellings and other archaeological remnants. The area reflects Arizona's rich cultural heritage.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Reviewed canyon, creek-pool, wilderness-sign and Parsons Trailhead context, including a broad red-cliff canyon panorama. The panorama is collection scenery, not an identified pool or trail segment. Historical photos are not a current-condition report, surveyed swimming entry or permission to jump.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
No camping or campfires in the first 3.7 miles of the valley. Motorized and mechanized equipment, including bicycles, strollers, carts and drones, is prohibited in the wilderness. Pack out trash and follow current posted rules.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Choose a day with suitable road and creek conditions, enough daylight for the return and no threatening rain. Do not assume the monsoon season or a calendar month guarantees swimmable water.
Difficulty Level
The official easy rating describes the trail, not swimming safety. The initial descent is steep, and creek crossings can be dangerous or impassable. Plan for the return climb and your group's mobility needs.
Fee
The reviewed trail page does not publish an entry price. Check current access requirements with the Red Rock Ranger Visitor Center; no fee is guaranteed by this listing.
Facilities
Carry drinking water and supplies. The ranger visitor center is in Sedona, not a restroom or water station at the pools.
Activities
Hiking, wildlife viewing and conditions-dependent creek swimming; no cliff jumping or diving recommended
Phone
928-203-2900
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Camping and campfires are prohibited within the first 3.7 miles of the valley. Where camping is allowed farther away, stay at least 200 feet from springs and check current fire restrictions. Arrange any developed campground separately.
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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