About Bootlegger Picnic Area
At this creekside picnic area you'll have a fishing hole and that's not all. Add spectacular scenery, clear water swimming holes, picturesque hiking trails and excellent wildlife watching (in other words, the standard amenities of Oak Creek Canyon) and it should come as no surprise that these pieces of recreational real estate are in high demand.The decor at this day-use site is Arizona ash and box elders, gravel beaches and stream-bed boulders. The creek is regularly stocked with trout. Colorful songbirds add a flash of brilliance to the trees.The A.B.Young Trail leaves from the southernmost end of the grounds. Take steps down to the creek, cross the creek and find an old metal sign indicating the trailhead.Attractions: Picnia area, fishing, swimming/wading, hiking, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, photography.
How to Get There
Location: 18 miles south of Flagstaff, 9 miles north of Sedona in scenic Oak Creek Canyon.GPS (Map): 34°58'10.8"N 111°45'03.0"WAccess: On US Highway 89A, drive south from Flagstaff or north from Sedona, located just off the paved highway. 18 miles south of Flagstaff, 9 miles north of Sedona in scenic Oak Creek Canyon. Click map graphic for printable view.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Bootlegger Picnic Area
Heading to Bootlegger Picnic Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bootlegger Picnic Area?
No central reservation system listed for Bootlegger Picnic Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/264757) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bootlegger Picnic Area?
Location: 18 miles south of Flagstaff, 9 miles north of Sedona in scenic Oak Creek Canyon.GPS (Map): 34°58'10.8"N 111°45'03.0"WAccess: On US Highway 89A, drive south from Flagstaff or north from Sedona, located just off the paved highway. 18 miles south of Flagstaff, 9 miles north of Sedona in scenic Oak Creek Canyon. Click map graphic for printable view.
References & Official Resources
