Beasley Flat
Beasley Flat is the beginning of the Wild and Scenic stretch of the Verde River. It is also the most popular take-out spot for canoes and kayaks after a 10-mile float from White Bridge. Interpretive signs describe the ecosystem, wildlife, plants, geology, and archeology of the area along a nature trail which follows the river for approximately ½ mile (from near the first picnic ramada to the parking lot above the boat launch). Beasley Flat is an easily accessible, yet somewhat remote site that features a quiet place for a birder to both spot riparian birds and to walk along the Verde River. The river itself is less than 100′ from the edge of paved parking and, although the river’s edge is not handicapped accessible, birding is well done from the parking lot.
Site Information
Region: North Central
County: Yavapai
Directions: From I-17 in Camp Verde, AZ: Go west on Hwy. 260 (towards Payson). Turn right on Salt Mine Rd. (County Rd. 163; it’s the first right after Main St, shortly before the bridge over the Verde River). Follow paved road for approximately 9 ½ miles to where it ends at a “T.” Turn left (this is FR 334) and follow gravel road ½ mile to Beasley Flat.
Latitude: 34.473978
Longitude: -111.801611
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: All year, but Spring is best.
Habitats: Marsh or Wetland, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
This is a 25 minute drive from Camp Verde on a mostly paved road although the last 2 miles are graded dirt road.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Canyon Wren, Common Black Hawk, Ladder-backed Woodpecker
Charismatic: American Kestrel, Western Kingbird
Contact Information
Verde Ranger District
Prescott National Forest
300 East Highway 260
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Phone: 928-567-4121
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/prescott/recreation/fishing/recarea/?recid=67209&actid=43