Red Rock State Park wilderness guide
State Park · AZ

Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park offers an iconic glimpse into the red sandstone formations and the lush riparian habitat of Arizona's Oak Creek Canyon. Known for its stunning vistas and diverse wildlife, the park is a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.

State Park2863+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

286

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Red Rock State Park

Red Rock State Park offers an iconic glimpse into the red sandstone formations and the lush riparian habitat of Arizona's Oak Creek Canyon. Known for its stunning vistas and diverse wildlife, the park is a popular destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Red Rock State Park is a 286-acre nature preserve and environmental education center located near Sedona, Arizona. Notable for its stunning red rock formations, the park is part of the revered Red Rock Scenic Byway. The landscape is characterized by its vibrant sandstone and towering geological structures, interspersed with the lush greenery of the Oak Creek riparian zone. Originally destined to be a luxury resort, the area now serves as a protected space dedicated to environmental education and conservation. The park offers several amenities, including a network of trails that provide scenic vistas, picnic areas, and a visitor center focusing on the geology and ecology of the region. Birdwatching is a significant draw, with opportunities to spot species like the American kestrel and the black hawk. The site is of historical interest as well, offering insights into the native peoples who once inhabited the region. The combination of educational facilities, diverse outdoor recreation options, and spectacular natural scenery makes Red Rock State Park a unique destination for visitors seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Red Rock State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Coyote Ridge Trail offers panoramic views of the red rock formations and is a must-visit for photographers.✦ Oak Creek runs through the park, providing a lush habitat for wildlife and a cool respite in the arid landscape.✦ The park's visitor center includes exhibits on Sedona's geology, plant and animal life, and local culture.✦ The House of Apache Fires, a historical landmark with rich historical ties, can be explored within the park.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Red Rock State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Red Rock State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Red Rock State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Red Rock State Park
Park Recreation

Environmental Education

Available in Red Rock State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Red Rock State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily admission fee required; annual passes are available.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Red Rock State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Red Rock State Park

No camping facilities are available within the park; camping is available nearby in Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Red Rock State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sedona, Arizona
⌖ 3.24 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona's striking red rock vistas and diverse trails make it a top destination for hiking, mountain biking, and more. Its vibrant landscapes offer adventure-seekers a perfect outdoor playground.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Village of Oak Creek, Arizona
⌖ 4.62 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Village of Oak Creek, Arizona

Village of Oak Creek boasts stunning red rock landscapes ideal for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography. It’s a serene desert base near Sedona with access to iconic trails and protected parks perfect for adventure seekers year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cornville, Arizona
⌖ 8.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cornville, Arizona

Cornville is a hidden gem in the Verde Valley, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and wine tours. The area's red rock views and unique wildlife make it a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Rimrock, Arizona
⌖ 12.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rimrock, Arizona

Rimrock, AZ, offers a unique desert adventure setting. Explore hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing in serene landscapes with rich history and striking views.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Clarkdale, Arizona
⌖ 13.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clarkdale, Arizona

Clarkdale is a serene Arizona town enriched by the Verde River. Outdoor enthusiasts can relish in hiking, kayaking, and exploring nearby national monuments, all under endless blue skies.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Jerome, Arizona
⌖ 16.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jerome, Arizona

Jerome, AZ is a hillside mining town with rugged desert and mountain trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Rich in history and surrounded by protected natural areas, it offers unique outdoor adventures with stunning views year-round.

Fall through Spring
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Red Rock State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Canyon Spirit: Sedona’s Cathedral Scenic Flight
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
Air TourADV Bookable

Canyon Spirit: Sedona’s Cathedral Scenic Flight

A 30–35 minute aerial Cathedral Scenic Tour by Guidance Air that reveals Sedona’s red‑rock panoramas and traces of Southwest history — a compact, family‑friendly way to see the canyon from above.

Air TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A Sedona Wine Lover's Experience
ADVEXPEDITION
Sedona, Arizona
WineryADV Bookable

A Sedona Wine Lover's Experience

Explore Northern Arizona’s premier vineyards on a 7-hour private wine tour through Sedona’s stunning landscape. Taste nearly 25 wines across five unique wineries for an unforgettable day of flavor and scenery.

WineryCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip