Weekenders flock to Pine Flat Campground, the northernmost campground in Oak Creek Canyon, to fish, swim, and hike in nearby Sedona. Several sites have creekside access, and a canopy of ponderosa pines makes for a cool respite.
The campground can accommodate RVs and trailers under 30 feet long, but there are no hookups. Quarter-operated showers are available a mile downstream at Cave Springs Campground.
As one of the most popular campgrounds in the area, Pine Flat fills up quickly. A small portion of the sites are available for reservations but are otherwise first-come, first-served.
The Cookstove Trail starts at the north end of campground, switchbacking up the east canyon wall. Directly across the road on the west side of the highway is Sterling Spring, which provides natural spring water year-round.
Need hike ideas? Check out these Sedona trails: Wilson Mountain | Brins Mesa | Bear Mountain
From Flagstaff, Arizona, head south on I-17. Take exit 337 to 89A/Oak Creek Canyon and continue for about 12 miles. Slow down and watch for the Pine Flat Campground sign. While the campground has entrances on both sides of the road, you must check in with the camp host at the west entrance.
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The jury is split — some say ponderosa pines smell like vanilla. Others say butterscotch. But regardless of your sweet leaning, forests in northern Arizona need our help. Decades of forest supression have led to unnaturally dense stands that are risk of severe wildfire. Learn more about what we're doing to improve the health of ponderosa forests ›
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