For a family friendly adventure, look no further than Red Rock State Park in Sedona!
Nestled in the heart of Sedona’s famous red rock formations, Red Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for any nature-loving family. With over 286 acres of stunning red rock vistas, lush greenery, and winding trails, Red Rock State Park offers options for every age.
The park offers a variety of activities from hiking and bird-watching to guided nature walks and ranger-led programs. For families with young children, the park also offers a Junior Ranger program. Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the park’s visitor center and complete a variety of activities, from nature scavenger hunts to learning about the park’s unique geology. Once they complete their booklet, they can earn a Junior Ranger badge and certificate to commemorate their experience.
Also, the nature center is fantastic! We spent a good half hour here enjoying the displays and learning about local wildlife. There are lots of interactive options for littles. And, in the case of rainy weather (like during our visit), much of the Junior Ranger booklet can be completed in the nature center itself.
We’ve done a couple trails at this state park over the years, and have two favorites. The first is Eagle’s Nest Trail, a 2.8-mile loop that winds through the red rock formations, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. While not an easy trail, it’s doable with littles, or wear them in a carrier. It’s about an additional half mile from the visitor’s center to access this loop trail.
The second trail option is definitely more flat. Take the Bunkhouse Trail down to Oak Creek, and across the sturdy Kingfisher Bridge. From here you can take the Kisva Trail along the creek (and access the Eagle’s Nest Trail) or head to the House of Apache Fires Trail. All the trails intersect, so pick up a map at the visitor’s center and figure out a plan based on your family. Rangers are always able to give suggestions as well.
The park also boasts a variety of picnic areas, perfect for a family lunch or afternoon snack. The park’s lawns offer plenty of space for kids to run around and play, while parents can relax and take in the stunning views. Note that no swimming or wading is allowed in the creek at this state park.
So next time you’re in Sedona, be sure to add Red Rock State Park to your family’s itinerary! Entrance fees are $7/adult, and $4/child ages 7-13 (under 7 are free). Learn more on their website!
