Crescent Moon Picnic Site In Sedona
Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .
Crescent Moon Picnic Site is a popular day-use recreation area along Oak Creek in Sedona, Arizona, best known for its classic views of Cathedral Rock from Red Rock Crossing. Visitors come to picnic beneath mature sycamore trees, photograph the red rocks, fish, swim or wade in Oak Creek and enjoy one of Sedona’s most recognizable natural settings.
- Crescent Moon Overview
- Things To Do
- Facilities & Amenities
- Hours & Fees
- Group Ramada
- Directions
- Visitor Tips
- Map
- FAQ
Crescent Moon Picnic Site And Red Rock Crossing
Crescent Moon lies along Oak Creek near the base of Cathedral Rock. The combination of flowing water, mature Arizona sycamores and towering red sandstone formations makes the area especially popular for sightseeing and photography.
Red Rock Crossing is one of the best-known viewpoints within the area. Depending on water conditions, visitors can walk along the creek and explore several vantage points where Cathedral Rock rises beyond the trees and sandstone shoreline.
Things To Do At Crescent Moon
- Photography: Photograph Cathedral Rock from several viewpoints along Oak Creek and Red Rock Crossing.
- Picnicking: Relax beneath large sycamore trees at tables throughout the day-use area.
- Swimming and wading: Enjoy Oak Creek when water levels and conditions are safe.
- Fishing: Fish Oak Creek while following current Arizona fishing regulations.
- Walking: Explore the creekside grounds and scenic areas around Crescent Moon Ranch.
- Wildlife viewing: Watch for birds, deer, squirrels and other wildlife common to the riparian corridor.
Crescent Moon Facilities And Amenities
- Picnic tables
- Charcoal grills
- Vault toilets
- Group ramada
- Creek access
- Parking
- Walking access to Red Rock Crossing viewpoints
Crescent Moon is a day-use recreation area. Overnight camping is not permitted within the picnic site.
Crescent Moon Hours And Entrance Fees
Current posted operating hours are generally 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM from April 1 through September 30, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM from October 1 through November 30, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from December 1 through March 31.
Entrance fees and operating hours can change. Check current Forest Service or Recreation.gov information before your visit, particularly around holidays, weather events and seasonal changes.
Crescent Moon Group Ramada
The Crescent Moon Ramada is available for group gatherings and can accommodate up to 50 people. The shelter includes picnic tables, a preparation table, a large charcoal grill and 10 reserved parking spaces.
Ramada availability, reservation prices and policies can change. Check the current Crescent Moon Ramada listing on Recreation.gov before planning a group event.
Weddings have additional reservation requirements and should be arranged according to current Forest Service and Recreation.gov policies.
Directions To Crescent Moon Picnic Site
From central Sedona, travel west on State Route 89A and turn south onto Upper Red Rock Loop Road. Continue toward Red Rock Crossing Road and follow signs to Crescent Moon Picnic Site.
The recreation area is located at 333 Red Rock Crossing Road, Sedona, Arizona. Parking can fill during busy periods, so arriving earlier in the day is advisable.
Current Crescent Moon Visitor Information
- Crescent Moon Picnic Site Information
- Crescent Moon Ramada Information
- Coconino National Forest Recreation
Tips For Visiting Crescent Moon
- Visit early in the morning or on a weekday when you want fewer crowds and quieter Cathedral Rock views.
- Bring drinking water, sun protection and sturdy footwear.
- Use caution in Oak Creek because water depth, current and conditions can change.
- Keep children closely supervised near the creek and slickrock.
- Check current weather before swimming, wading or spending extended time near Oak Creek.
- Keep pets leashed and clean up pet waste.
- Do not leave food or trash unattended or feed wildlife.
- Pack out or properly dispose of all trash and leave the recreation area as you found it.
- Check current fire restrictions before using charcoal grills.
Crescent Moon Picnic Site Map
Crescent Moon Picnic Site FAQ
Where is Crescent Moon Picnic Site?
Crescent Moon Picnic Site is located along Oak Creek at 333 Red Rock Crossing Road in Sedona, Arizona, near the base of Cathedral Rock.
What can you do at Crescent Moon Picnic Site?
Popular activities include picnicking, photography, fishing, swimming, wading, walking and wildlife viewing along Oak Creek and Red Rock Crossing.
Can you see Cathedral Rock from Crescent Moon?
Yes. Crescent Moon and Red Rock Crossing provide some of the best-known views of Cathedral Rock, including viewpoints where the red rock formation can reflect in Oak Creek.
Can you swim at Crescent Moon?
Swimming and wading are popular activities in Oak Creek, but visitors should evaluate current water levels, weather and creek conditions before entering the water.
Can you camp at Crescent Moon Picnic Site?
No. Crescent Moon Picnic Site is a day-use recreation area and overnight camping is not permitted within the picnic site.
Does Crescent Moon have picnic tables and restrooms?
Yes. The recreation area has picnic tables, charcoal grills and vault toilets.
Can the Crescent Moon Ramada be reserved?
Yes. The group ramada can accommodate up to 50 people and includes picnic tables, a preparation table, a charcoal grill and reserved parking spaces. Check Recreation.gov for current availability and reservation requirements.
Are weddings allowed at Crescent Moon?
Yes, but weddings require reservations and are subject to special Forest Service rules. Larger groups may also need to reserve the group ramada.
What are the best times to visit Crescent Moon?
Early mornings and weekdays generally provide a better opportunity for lighter crowds, especially when photography and quiet creekside views are priorities.
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