Seasonal permits on sale for Fossil Creek recreation area

(Flagstaff, Ariz., March 13, 2026)—Seasonal permits are now on sale for the Fossil Creek area via recreation.gov, which will run between April 1 and October 1.

Current permit availability and updated information about this year’s permit quota process is available on www.recreation.gov. 

Each permit is valid for one vehicle and the maximum group size per permit is 12 people. A maximum of one permit per person per month may be reserved, and permit holders must be 18 years of age or older. 

Permit holders must arrive at the junction of Forest Road 708 and state Route 260 prior to 2 p.m. as access gates to the Dixon Lewis, Irving/Flume, Tonto Bench, Fossil Creek Bridge and Homestead parking lots close at 3 p.m. each day. 

Permit holders must select their specific parking lot when purchasing a permit. Permits are non-transferable between lots. 

Identification will be checked upon arrival to ensure the permit holder is in the permitted vehicle. Permit holders must display a printed copy of their permit on their dashboard while parked in their assigned lot. 

Fossil Creek has very few developed facilities and visitors should be prepared for rustic and remote conditions. Visitors should bring ample water, to pack out all trash, to stick to developed recreation areas and to abide by all posted signage including restrictions and closures.

Campfires and glass containers are prohibited in the Fossil Creek area, and camping in the Fossil Creek Permit Area is prohibited from April 1 to October 1. 

Forest Road 708 occasionally closes during periods of inclement weather or when road conditions warrant. Permit holders will receive email notifications about any closures and refunds through recreation.gov. 

Permit holders should check road and weather status prior to their visit using the Coconino National Forest’s website, or by calling the Fossil Creek hotline at 928-226-4611.