Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona — varies - see below swimming hole near Phoenix, AZ
Varies - see below AZ Free

Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona

Swimming hole in Phoenix, Arizona · Other

Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona is a natural swimming hole. It is near Phoenix, Arizona. Access is free. Best season: Late spring through early autumn (May to September) when temperatures are warm and water levels are ideal.

Typical season: Late spring through early autumn (May to September) when temperatures are warm and water levels are ideal

About Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona

Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona gives you varies - see below swimming access near Phoenix in Arizona. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach.

Strung along the banks of West Clear Creek within the Coconino National Forest, this series of natural pools offers crystal-clear, cool water against a backdrop of rust-colored sandstone walls, cottonwood trees, and the kind of quiet that reminds you why you left the city behind. West Clear Creek carves through one of Arizona's most dramatic riparian corridors. Towering canyon walls frame the sky above, while lush vegetation. Willows, cottonwoods, and native grasses. Lines the creek banks in vivid shades of green that feel almost startling against the dry desert surroundings. The canyon's shade keeps temperatures comfortable even on scorching summer afternoons, and the sound of water moving over rock provides a constant, soothing backdrop. Swimming, Jumping, and the Water Itself The water at the Bull Pen is refreshingly cold. The kind of cold that shocks your system on first contact and then feels absolutely perfect after a dusty desert hike. Visibility is exceptional; you can watch the rippled sandy bottom far below your dangling feet.

The pools run deep enough to satisfy serious swimmers and thrill-seekers alike, and the cliff jumping opportunities here are a genuine draw. Multiple ledges and rock outcroppings offer jump points with sweeping views of the canyon. Always scout any jump carefully before you leap, as water levels and underwater conditions can change seasonally. The trail is manageable for most visitors, though those with limited mobility may find the uneven ground challenging. Wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and consider a dry bag for valuables. This is an unofficial, unsanctioned . Swim at your own risk and look out for your group. There is no entry fee to access the .

Treat Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.

Key facts

Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.

Water type
Varies - see below
Water body
Varies - see below
Fee
Free
Nearest town
Phoenix
State
Arizona
Best season
Late spring through early autumn (May to September) when temperatures are warm and water levels are ideal.
Access difficulty
Moderate; 0.5-mile hike with some rugged terrain. Suitable for most visitors but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Restrooms
Yes
Lifeguard
Present (seasonal)
Cliff jumping
Reported
Camping
Camping nearby at the Clear Creek and Beaver Creek campgrounds.
Land manager
U.S. Forest Service
Activities
Swimming, jumping
Facilities
Camping available at Clear Creek and Beaver Creek campgrounds. No fees for accessing the .
Last verified
May 12, 2026

The experience

  • Best time to visit Late spring through early autumn (May to September) when temperatures are warm and water levels are ideal.
  • Access Moderate; 0.5-mile hike with some rugged terrain. Suitable for most visitors but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
  • Facilities Camping available at Clear Creek and Beaver Creek campgrounds. No fees for accessing the .
  • Camping nearby Camping nearby at the Clear Creek and Beaver Creek campgrounds.

Highlights & features

  • Crystal-clear water
  • Cliff jumping opportunities
  • Lush riparian vegetation
  • Short, scenic hike
  • Nearby camping options
  • Deep swimming hole carved into sandstone
  • Cliff jumping spots with stunning views
  • Secluded location in the Coconino National Forest

How to get there

Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona lies in Arizona near Phoenix, Camp Verde. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.

  1. Starting Point - Phoenix, AZ

    Begin your journey by heading north on Interstate 17 (I-17).

  2. Exit for Camp Verde - Exit 287

    Continue on I-17 north for about 90 miles until you reach Exit 287 for State Route 260 (RT 260) near Camp Verde. Take this exit and turn right (east) onto RT 260. Travel East on RT 260: Follow RT 260 east, bypassing the town of Camp Verde. Continue for several miles until you reach Forest Road 618 (FR 618) on your left. Turn Left onto FR 618: Turn left onto FR 618 and drive north for about 2 miles. Turn Right onto FR 215: After 2 miles on FR 618, turn right (east) onto Forest Road 215 (FR 215). Follow FR 215 for about 3 miles until you reach a locked gate.

  3. Parking and Trailhead

    Park your vehicle near the locked gate. From here, you will need to hike about 0.5 miles along the trail to reach West Clear Creek and the Bull Pen . Optional Extended Hike: If you’re interested in exploring further, there is another . To reach it, continue hiking along the creek for an additional 1.5 miles.

  4. Helpful notes

    The hike to the . Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water.

  5. Parking near the gate is limited, so plan accordingly during peak times.

    The area is remote, so Bring all necessary supplies before heading out. Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the site. Have a safe visit to the Camp Verde !

Plan your visit

Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona works well as a day trip from Phoenix or Camp Verde. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Catalina Mountains Swimming Spots or browse more Arizona other spots in our directory. For the full list in Arizona, see our state directory.

Access & fees

This is an unofficial, unmaintained natural area with no fees. Parking is limited near the FR 215 gate. A 0.5-mile hike on uneven terrain is required to reach the main swimming hole. Facilities like restrooms are only available at the nearby Clear Creek Campground, not at the swimming area itself.

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What to pack for Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona

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Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Camp Verde Swimming Holes in Arizona?

Yes. Camp Verde Swimming Holes in Arizona near Phoenix and Camp Verde in AZ is a varies - see below swimming spot on Varies - see below. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.

Is Camp Verde Swimming Holes in Arizona free?

Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.

How do you get to Camp Verde Swimming Holes in Arizona?

Camp Verde Swimming Holes in Arizona is in AZ within day-trip range of Phoenix and Camp Verde. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.

Explore more nearby swimming guides

Regional guide

This spot is featured in our Camp Verde & Verde River swimming holes roundup with related swimming holes in Arizona.

Nearby swimming holes

Culture & history

Located near Camp Verde, a town with rich Native American and pioneer history, offering insights into Arizona’s past.

Conservation

Follow Leave No Trace principles. pack out trash, stay on trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife to preserve the natural ecosystem.

Sources & updates

Last verified
Researched by
Md Monayem Islam, Founder & Editor

Official land managers cited on this page

Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.

Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.

Planning a trip to Camp Verde Swimming Holes In Arizona?

Browse more swimming holes in Arizona or explore the full directory.

Safety notice: Natural swimming conditions change with weather, season, and water quality. Verify current conditions with local land managers before you go. Swim at your own risk — there are rarely lifeguards at these sites.