Recreation Region: Red Rock Ranger District

Stoneman Lake Picnic Site

There is still some debate over whether Stoneman Lake is the remains of a volcanic crater or whether it fills a deep, collapsed sinkhole. The nearly-circular Stoneman Lake sits at the bottom of a large bowl-shaped valley, and its underlying rock layer faults are the only way water can leave the lake.

While Stoneman Lake is usually empty, visitors can still find things to do during all seasons. Stoneman Lake is surrounded by basalt slopes covered in Gambel oak and ponderosa pine and is an excellent place to birdwatch. Yearly waterfowl migrations and songbird sightings make this a great place to view wildlife.

Photo Gallery

General Information

There are a number of private cottages near the lake. Please respect their privacy and avoid trespassing.

Camping is not permitted at the Stoneman Lake Picnic Area.

Exterior image of the Red Rock Visitor Center

Address: 8375 State Route 179, Sedona, AZ 86351
Phone: 928-203-2900
Hours: Wednesday 12 p.m.-4:30 p.m. All other days, open 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: SM.FS.Cof_Webmail@usda.gov

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 34.77778

Longitude: -111.52482

Elevation

6,725 ft.

Directions

Location: 46 miles south of Flagstaff.

Access: Drive 36 miles south of Flagstaff on Interstate 17 and take the Stoneman Lake Exit (Exit 306). Turn east under the highway and follow Forest Road 213 about 6.3 miles. Turn north (left) at the T to stay on FR 213. Follow FR 213 for about 2.3 miles and then turn left into the Stoneman Lake Overlook and Picnic Area.

GPS (Map): 34°46'40.2"N 111°31'29.5"W