Day trips: Fossil Springs

May 24, 2026

Turquoise pool with a small waterfall on the left and yellow wildflowers in the foreground

There is more than one of these little paradises in Arizona, but this is the easiest to get to with the most brilliant color. It’s great with friends, or if you have young-ish kids. Or if you want to make the hike from the Strawberry side, it’s a terrific hike and huge payoff.

2005: Before the Permits

A small cascade flowing over rocks into a clear pool, lush riparian growth on both sides

A twisted juniper trunk in the foreground, cascade visible through the branches

You can swim all along the creek. There are a couple places with a rope swing, a cliff jumping area, and a feature called the Toilet bowl. (That one is actually a little risky if you’re not ready) Even when it’s hot, the water is cool because it’s fed from a spring near the Strawberry side.

2013: The Color of the Water

Crystal-clear emerald water with submerged greenery and rocks visible through the surface, a small grass clump in the middle

A quiet emerald pool surrounded by trees, reflections on still water

It’s a gorgeous oasis in the desert with brilliantly colorful and cool creek. Do I really need to hype this for you?

If You Go

If you come from the Camp Verde side, there is a reservation system and you won’t get in without one during the restricted time of year. The Strawberry side has a bit of a hike down hill and limited parking at the trailhead. For those that enter from there, please plan for the uphill hike out. It is very exposed to sun and park service has posted many warning signs because of the risks. It is fine if you plan better than flip-flops and 1 bottle of water, which I have seen often and much complaining later. Personal request, don’t leave trash. Pick it up even if it’s not yours. This tends to be a problem in many places, and especially here.