The Best Arizona Family Resorts Near Fossil Creek
You’re looking to plan an exciting family getaway this summer but want to avoid the usual crowded tourist traps. Why not discover a hidden gem right in your backyard? Just a couple hours north of Phoenix, nestled in the lush Verde Valley, lies Fossil Creek. This stunning natural area is home to crystal-clear creek waters, scenic trails, and ancient Native American dwellings.
And the best part? There are some fantastic family resorts just minutes away where you can unwind and experience all the natural wonders of this secluded paradise. Whether you’re into kayaking, stargazing, or just lounging by the pool with a good book, these family-friendly resorts next to Fossil Creek have something for everyone in your crew. This summer, make memories that will last long after the suntans fade at one of these best Arizona family resorts near Fossil Creek.
Table of Contents
An Overview of Fossil Creek in Arizona
Over millions of years, Fossil Creek carved out stunning canyon scenery in northern Arizona. This natural area is a perfect family getaway, with scenic trails, swimming holes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Exploring the Creek
The centerpiece of Fossil Creek is, of course, the creek itself. Fed by natural springs, the creek maintains a constant temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for swimming and wading during the hot summer months. The water is very clear, allowing you to see fish and turtles swimming by. For the adventurous, there are natural rock slides and small waterfalls to slide down.
You can access the creek via several hiking trails. The Fossil Creek Trail and the Flume Trail are easy hikes suitable for families with small children. The trails wind through ponderosa pine and juniper forest before opening up at the creek. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife like coyotes, bobcats, and birds of prey soaring overhead.
Camping Under the Stars
For a fun family camping trip, the Fossil Creek area has over 60 campsites with picnic tables and fire pits nestled in the forest. Some campsites are right along the creek, so you can fall asleep to the soothing sound of running water. Stargazing here is spectacular due to the lack of light pollution. You may spot constellations, bright planets like Jupiter and Mars, and even meteor showers during the peak summer season.
The campsites have vault toilets but no showers or hookups. Pack in all your own supplies, including drinking water. Campfires are allowed only in established fire pits, so be sure to bring firewood from outside the park.
Know Before You Go
Parts of Fossil Creek are only open seasonally from April to October due to road closures. The creek itself is open year-round for hiking, but vehicle access is limited in the winter and spring. Summers can be very hot, up to 105 F, so plan activities for the early morning and evening. Be aware that the area has little to no cell phone reception. Let someone know your schedule before you head out into the canyon.
With stunning scenery, opportunities for adventure, and a chance to reconnect with nature, Fossil Creek is an ideal spot for quality family time in the Arizona outdoors.
The Best Family-Friendly Resorts Near Fossil Creek
The Verde Valley area near Fossil Creek is home to some fantastic family resorts, perfect for your next Arizona getaway. Here are a few of the best options within 30 minutes of Fossil Creek.
Verde Ranch RV Resort
If camping in a recreational vehicle is your style, Verde Ranch RV Resort should be at the top of your list. This highly-rated resort offers over 200 full hookup sites with patio areas, picnic tables, and grills. Take a dip in their outdoor pool and hot tub, play mini golf or basketball, or join their many planned activities. They frequently have barbecues, game nights, live music, and more. Verde Ranch is only a 15-minute drive from Fossil Creek and 25 minutes from Sedona.
Official Website: https://verderanchrvresort.com
Sedona Summit Resort
For a more upscale family escape, the Sedona Summit Resort is ideal. Their spacious suites have full kitchens, living rooms and balconies with red rock views. The resort grounds feature swimming pools, waterslides, playgrounds and sports courts to keep kids entertained. Parents will appreciate amenities like the fitness center, spa and on-site restaurant. Sedona Summit is a 30-minute drive from Fossil Creek in the stunning red rock scenery of Sedona.
Official Website: Sedona Summit Resort
Poco Diablo Resort
If you want the comforts of a resort but prefer a more secluded setting, the Poco Diablo Resort is a hidden gem. Nestled within a ponderosa pine forest just outside Sedona, the resort offers cabins and vacation homes in addition to standard hotel rooms. Spend your days fly fishing in Oak Creek, playing tennis, enjoying the hot tubs and heated pool, or just relaxing on your private patio. The resort’s on-site restaurant, golf course and spa provide everything you need to unwind. Poco Diablo Resort is 25 minutes from Fossil Creek.
With stunning scenery, outdoor recreation and family-friendly amenities, the Verde Valley resorts surrounding Fossil Creek are the perfect place for your next Arizona family getaway. Whether you prefer camping, upscale comfort or a secluded hideaway in the woods, you’ll find an option to suit your needs within 30 minutes of Fossil Creek.
Official Website: Poco Diablo Resort
Top Outdoor Activities for Families at Fossil Creek
Fossil Creek is an outdoor paradise for families with kids of all ages. Some of the top activities you’ll want to experience at Fossil Creek include:
Hiking
There are trails for all skill levels at Fossil Creek, from easy nature walks to more strenuous hikes. For younger kids, try the Fossil Springs Trail which is an easy 2-mile round trip hike to natural springs and swimming holes. For older kids and teens, the Strawberry Trail is a moderate 6-mile hike that leads to stunning views of the creek. Be sure to wear proper footwear, pack water and snacks, and don’t forget the camera!
Swimming
The clear, blue-green waters of Fossil Creek are perfect for swimming, especially on a hot Arizona day. Some of the most popular swimming spots are the Fossil Creek Falls and Blue Hole, which have scenic waterfalls and deep, refreshing pools surrounded by rocks. The water temperature stays in the 70s year-round, so you can swim and play in the creek any season. Life jackets are recommended for younger kids.
Camping
For a fun family camping adventure, book a campsite at Fossil Creek Campground or Strawberry Campground. You’ll be surrounded by nature and have easy access to hiking trails, swimming holes and more. Both campgrounds have picnic tables, fire pits and vault toilets. Be prepared by packing a tent, sleeping bags, flashlights, food, water and anything else you’ll need. An evening telling stories around the campfire under a blanket of stars will create memories that last a lifetime.
Wildlife Viewing
Fossil Creek is home to an abundance of wildlife like birds, fish, frogs, turtles, lizards, deer and black bears. Pack some binoculars and see how many animals you can spot! Early morning and dusk are the best times for wildlife viewing. You might catch a glimpse of colorful birds like the red-faced warbler or graceful birds of prey soaring overhead. Tell the kids to keep an eye out for tadpoles, turtles sunbathing on logs and maybe even a bobcat footprint in the mud along the creek.
Between hiking, swimming, camping and wildlife, Fossil Creek offers endless outdoor recreation for families. An adventure at Fossil Creek is sure to bring you closer together and inspire a lifelong love of nature in your kids.
What to Pack for Your Fossil Creek Family Vacation
Packing the essentials for your Fossil Creek family vacation will ensure you have everything you need to enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Here are some must-haves to throw in your suitcase:
Comfortable Hiking Clothes and Shoes
Fossil Creek is all about getting out in nature. Bring clothes made of breathable fabrics like nylon or polyester and sturdy hiking shoes with good traction. Temperatures in the canyon can vary, so also pack shorts, t-shirts, long pants, jackets, and anything else to layer up. Don’t forget swimsuits, towels, and water shoes for wading in the creek!
Camping Gear
If you plan to camp at Fossil Creek, pack a tent, sleeping bags, pads, chairs, lanterns, and other essential gear. The campsites are primitive, so be prepared for no amenities. You’ll need equipment for cooking over a fire or camp stove, eating, and cleaning up. Don’t forget a first aid kit, toiletries, wipes, hand sanitizer, sun protection, insect repellant, and a cooler with ice for food.
Adventure Equipment
For exploring the creek, bring life jackets, especially for young children. Tubes, rafts, or kayaks are also popular for floating down the water. Pack any recreational equipment you may need like balls, Frisbees, bikes, fishing poles, etc. Don’t forget a backpack to carry it all in.
Entertainment
While nature provides plenty of entertainment at Fossil Creek, you may want some diversions during downtime at your campsite. Consider packing cards, board games, books, crafts, toys, portable phone chargers and other electronics. Stargazing at night in the canyon is spectacular, so bring a telescope or binoculars.
A family trip to Fossil Creek will create memories to last a lifetime. By packing essential gear for comfort and adventure, you’ll be equipped for a fun getaway enjoying nature and quality time together. Have a wonderful vacation and happy camping!
Planning the Perfect Itinerary for Your Fossil Creek Family Getaway
Planning the Perfect Itinerary for Your Fossil Creek Family Getaway
To make the most of your family getaway to Fossil Creek, map out an itinerary to experience all the natural beauty the area has to offer. Start with the major highlights, then add in activities based on your family’s interests. A suggested 3-day itinerary could be:
Day 1: Explore Fossil Creek
The crown jewel of the area is Fossil Creek itself. Go for a swim or splash in the creek’s swimming holes with refreshing blue-green waters. You can hike along the creek to find your perfect swimming spot. The water is chilly, but invigorating on a hot day! For younger kids, the creek’s shallow areas are ideal for playing and exploring.
Pack a picnic lunch, your bathing suits and towels, hiking shoes, and don’t forget sun protection. The scenic drive to Fossil Creek is part of the adventure, taking you through the Coconino National Forest.
Day 2: Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument
Just a 30 minute drive from Fossil Creek, you’ll find the Montezuma Castle National Monument which contains some of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America. Take a guided tour to learn about the culture and lives of the Sinagua people who lived there over 600 years ago. The one-mile trail is suitable for all fitness levels.
On your drive back, stop for dinner in the charming town of Camp Verde. With Southwestern cuisine, you can’t go wrong.
Day 3: Options Galore
For your last day, you have many options to choose from based on your family’s interests:
•Visit Out of Africa Wildlife Park to see giraffes, zebras and other African animals up close on a safari tour.
•Check out the Verde Valley Archaeology Center to learn about the area’s native tribes and see artifacts.
•Go off-roading in your SUV or ATV rentals through the Coconino National Forest.
•Take a ziplining or horseback riding tour.
•Visit a local ranch for a day of activities like roping, branding or wagon rides.
•Go stargazing at night – the clear skies and little light pollution make for amazing views of the Milky Way and night sky.
With the perfect blend of outdoor recreation, culture, nature and family activities, you’ll make memories to last for years to come on your Fossil Creek getaway. Enjoy!
Conclusion
So there you have it, some of the best family resort options near Fossil Creek for a fun family getaway. With something for everyone from swimming and waterslides to horseback riding and hiking, you really can’t go wrong. Get the crew packed up, hop in the car, and get ready for an adventure exploring all the natural beauty of Northern Arizona.
These resorts offer amenities to please both kids and adults, comfortable rooms to unwind in after a day of activities, and dining options when you don’t feel like cooking over the campfire. Head to Fossil Creek for a dip in the swimming holes and you’ll be making memories that will last for years to come. The red rocks are calling – it’s time for an escape to the great outdoors!
