Needle Rock Recreation Area
The area is noted for its unusual rock formations. Nearby is a protected riparian area, the Mesquite Bosque. The rocky beach area of the Verde River is surrounded by beautiful towering rock formations. Near the recreation site is a fenced unique biological area, a stand of mesquite. Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons are frequently seen in this vicinity.
Site Information
Region: Phoenix and Central
County: Maricopa
Directions: The site is 14 miles east of Scottsdale. From Pima Road, turn east on Dynamite Road and travel 3 miles to where it merges with Rio Verde Drive. Follow Rio Verde Drive for another 9 ½ miles to Forest Road (FR) 20 and turn left. Follow FR 20 for 3 miles to Needle Rock at the river. FR 20 is an unpaved road with narrow blind curves.
Latitude: 33.767005
Longitude: -111.670246
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: Tonto National Forest day pass required.
Best time to visit: Best during spring and fall migration.
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Closures during bald eagle nesting season December 1 to June 30. Check Tonto National Forest website.
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: Gilded Flicker, Lucy’s Warbler, Yellow-billed Cuckoo
Charismatic: Brown-crested Flycatcher, Summer Tanager, White-winged Dove
Contact Information
Tonto National Forest
US Forest Service
2324 E. McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone: 602-225-5200
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/?recid=35217
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L859415
