Slide Rock State Park

Sliding, swimming, and wading in the half-mile (1-kilometer) swimming area is the top draw at Slide Rock State Park. Visitors can also relax on the red rock beaches, admire the desert views, and enjoy a picnic, or explore several short hiking trails and historic sites, including the original homestead and guest cabins. The park’s proximity to Sedona makes it easy to visit independently or as part of a guided jeep tour of Oak Creek Canyon.

• You can only enter the park by vehicle. Walk-ins and drop-offs are not permitted.

• There is no lifeguard on duty. Swim and slide at your own risk.

• Wear water shoes for a better grip on the slick rock.

• Two ADA-accessible restrooms with flush toilets are located above the creek. The vault toilet near the creek is not ADA accessible.

• Pets and glass containers are not permitted in the swim area.

• The gift shop offers water, ice, snacks, sunscreen, memorabilia, and souvenirs.

The park is located in Oak Creek Canyon, 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Sedona, and 21 miles (34 kilometers) south of Flagstaff. The park can be accessed from State Route 89A; parking along State Route 89A is not permitted.

The park is open year-round, except for Christmas Day. Weather conditions, including snow, can also cause closures. Last entry is one hour before closing, which is also when the swim area closes. Summer is the most popular time for the park, when playing in the water is particularly refreshing. Visit in September to enjoy the Pendley Homestead’s annual apple festival.

Frank Pendley homesteaded the land just south of Slide Rock in the early 1900s, and in 1912, established a large apple orchard and grew garden produce using a unique irrigation system that is still used today. In 1933, Pendley built several rustic cabins to cater to vacationers. The cabins, along with the Pendley homestead house, the apple packing barn, and farming machinery, can still be viewed today along the Pendley Homestead Trail in the park.