Fossil Creek Road
Fossil Creek Road, also known as Forest Road 708, is a long dirt road out of Camp Verde providing access to the Fossil Creek Permit Area.
Fossil Creek is one of only two designated Wild & Scenic Rivers in Arizona and a rare riparian area within an otherwise arid landscape.
Advance permits are required to park a vehicle in the Fossil Creek permit area April 1–October 1. During this season, a maximum of one permit per person per calendar month may be reserved (one permit = one day). Permits are made available on the first of the month one month ahead of time. For example, permits for the month of April are available beginning March 1.
Site Information
Region: North Central
County: Yavapai
Directions: From Camp Verde: From I-17, take exit 287 (Highway 260) and travel east of Camp Verde for 10 miles to Forest Road 708 (Fossil Creek Road). High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended on the 14-mile dirt road that leads to eight access points along Fossil Creek.
Latitude: 34.410286
Longitude: -111.559694
Operational Hours: Seasonal closings, check with site manager
Admission or Fees: Parking Fee: $6.00 per vehicle per day and advance permit is required, check with Forest Service website for specific dates and hours.
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Fossil Creek is a day-use area open year-round. Permits are required April 1 through October 1. During the spring/summer season, entry gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 4 p.m., but visitors can exit the gate until 8 p.m. During the fall/winter season (October 2–March 31), parking permits are not required, and entry gates are open 24 hours a day weather permitting.
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: Bridled Titmouse, Canyon Wren, Juniper TItmouse, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Woodhouse’s Scrub-jay
Charismatic: American Kestrel, Black-throated Sparrow, Gambel’s Quail, Gila Woodpecker, Ruby-crowned Kinglet
Contact Information
US Forest Service
Coconino National Forest
1824 S. Thompson St
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Phone: 928-527-3600
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recarea/?recid=75356
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L4975990
Additional Resources:
Arizona Tourism
