Arizona State Parks and Trails announces that the swimming area at Slide Rock State Park will remain closed through September 2026, in coordination with the Oak Creek closure order announced by the Coconino National Forest.

The swimming area closure initially began on July 17, 2026 after heavy rains flooded the creek, washing ash and debris from the Pocket Fire burn scar into Oak Creek. The closure has now been extended to the end of September 2026. While ash, sediment, and organic matter have impacted water quality in Oak Creek, the flash flooding risk remains a primary concern for public safety. 

“As one of Arizona’s favorite swimming spots and a destination for nearly half a million visitors each year, we regret not being able to have swimming access at Slide Rock State Park for our visitors until this fall. However, public safety comes first and the Pocket Fire aftermath in combination with monsoon season presents risks to swimmers that we can’t otherwise mitigate,” explains Bob Broscheid, director of Arizona State Parks and Trails. 

Visitors are still welcome to enjoy the beauty of red rock country, have a picnic, see the early 1900s homestead history on display, and take a short hike on the Clifftop Nature Trail to take in beautiful views. As a self-sustaining agency, Arizona’s state parks, including Slide Rock State Park, completely rely on visitor fees to fund the operational costs of our parks, including facilities and maintenance, preservation, and ranger staffing. Slide Rock State Park consistently ranks among the most visited and highest revenue-generating parks within the agency each year. Visitor support and patience during this time is appreciated. Staff at the park will continue to assist visitors, hold programming as they are able, and work on projects while visitation is expected to slow. 

Arizona State Parks and Trails urges the public to remain informed and prepare for hazardous natural events such as flash floods and wildfires. Before setting out for outdoor plans, check closures and alerts with designated land managers and always stay aware of weather conditions. For more information on the facilities and amenities of Slide Rock State Park, visit AZStateParks.com/Slide-Rock.

Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.

For information about Arizona State Parks and the many recreational, historical and cultural programs, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com. 

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov