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Needle Rock Day Use Area and Non-Motorized Beach
The beach on the Verde River is generally rocky, but attracts many people during the hot summer months. The area is noted for its unusual rock formations. Nearby is a protected riparian area, the Mesquite Bosque. This popular water recreation area attracts many people trying to escape the Arizona summer heat. The rocky beach area is surrounded by beautiful towering rock formations. Near the recreation site is a fenced unique biological area, a stand of mesquite. Bald Eagles and Great Blue Herons are frequently seen in this vicinity.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | In accordance with closure 03-12-01-23-11, the Needle Rock Beach Area is temporarily closed due to the impacts of recent flooding. The neighboring Box Bar recreation area is open. For further information please contact the Cave Creek Ranger Station at 480-595-3300. |
|---|---|
| Operational Hours: | Day Use Only |
| Open Season: | Year round |
| Restrictions: | Stay limit 1 day, no motor boats allowed, trailers under 16'. Picnic tables & grills, trash service, no drinking water. Glass containers prohibited. |
| Closest Towns: | Scottsdale & Fountain Hills |
| Water: | Not Available |
| Restroom: | Vault toilets |
| Passes: | The links below provide additional information on pricing and purchasing information.
|
| Information Center: | Cave Creek Ranger District (480)595-3300 |
General Information
Directions:The site is 14 miles east of Scottsdale. From Pima Road, turn east on Dynamite Road and travel 3 miles to where it merges with Rio Verde Drive. Follow Rio Verde Drive for another 9 ½ miles to Forest Road (FR) 20 and turn left. Follow FR 20 for 3 miles to Needle Rock at the river. FR 20 is an unpaved road with narrow blind curves. View and download a map.
General Notes:
Bald Eagle Seasonal Closures - December 1 to June 30
Activities
River and Stream Fishing
River Access Point (Verde R.)
Fish Species: Rainbow Trout; Large and Smallmouth Bass; Sunfish; Channel and Flathead Catfish
Viewing Wildlife
| Species | Bald eagles and great blue herons |
Picnicking
Picnic tables and grills, trash service
Boating - Non-Motorized
River Access Point (Verde R.)
Swimming
Alerts & Warnings
Location