Slide Rock State Park

The basics

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.

Things to know before you go

• 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.

How to get there

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.

When to get there

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.

Pendley Homestead

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.

Ways to explore

Sliding, swimming, and wading in the 0.5-mile (1-kilometer) swimming area are all top draws at Slide Rock State Park. You can also relax on the red-rock beaches, admire desert views, or hike several short trails. The park’s proximity to Sedona makes it easy to visit independently.

Travelers often combine their visit with other popular activities in the Sedona area, such as early morning hot-air balloon rides, bike tours, and off-roading adventures. Choose between small-group tours that cover significant ground in Sedona or Jeep tours that offer an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Accessibility

The water slide and park in general contain accessibility challenges. Two accessible restrooms with flush toilets are located above the creek, while the vault toilet near the creek is not compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Age limits

Children under 6 receive free entry, but the water slide (with cold water) may not be appropriate for young children.

What to pack

Water shoes for better grip on slippery rocks, picnic supplies, change of clothes

What to wear

Sunscreen, hat, bathing suit, rash guard

Not allowed

Glass containers, pets, drop-offs (you can only enter the park by vehicle; walk-ins or drop-offs not permitted)

Amenities

Gift shop with water, ice, snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs; plus restrooms, picnic areas, hiking trails

Address 

Slide Rock State Park is located in Oak Creek Canyon, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) north of Sedona. No drop-offs or walk-ins are allowed at Slide Rock State Park; you must enter by vehicle.

Driving

The park is accessed from State Route 89A (parking along this road is not permitted). There is a flat fee, per vehicle, to park. Those who want to use cash for parking must have exact change.

Public transportation

It is not possible to take public transit to Slide Rock State Park. Some guided tours of Oak Creek Canyon drive past the park, though they don’t typically include it as a dedicated stop.

Best times to visit

The hot afternoon hours may be the best time to visit the park, although visitors looking to avoid crowds may prefer the morning. Last entry is one hour before closing.

Best days to visit

The park is open year-round, except on Christmas Day. If possible, choose a weekday over a weekend to avoid crowds. Weather conditions can cause closures; confirm opening hours in advance.

Best months to visit

The summer months of July and August are the most popular for swimming in the park.

Special events

Visit in September to enjoy the Pendley Homestead’s annual Slide Rock Apple Festival, celebrated with a pick-your-own-apple program, entertainment, and vendors.