Best Picnic Areas In Sedona & Oak Creek Canyon

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 14, 2026

Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon offer beautiful places to enjoy a picnic surrounded by red rock cliffs, shady creekside scenery and some of northern Arizona’s most recognizable landscapes. Popular picnic destinations include Crescent Moon Picnic Site near Cathedral Rock, Slide Rock State Park and several Forest Service recreation sites along Oak Creek Canyon. Facilities, fees and access vary by location, so check current conditions before heading out.

• Best Picnic Areas
• Crescent Moon
• Slide Rock State Park
• Oak Creek Canyon Picnic Areas
• Picnic Planning Tips
• Current Conditions
• FAQ

Best Places For A Picnic In Sedona

The best Sedona picnic area depends on the setting you prefer. Crescent Moon combines Oak Creek access with classic views of Cathedral Rock, while Slide Rock State Park provides picnic areas within one of Oak Creek Canyon’s most popular recreation destinations. Farther north in the canyon, Banjo Bill and Grasshopper Point are established Forest Service day-use areas, although wildfire, flooding, maintenance and other conditions can temporarily affect access.

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Crescent Moon Picnic Site & Red Rock Crossing

Crescent Moon Picnic Site is one of Sedona’s most scenic picnic destinations. Located beside Oak Creek southwest of Sedona, the recreation area offers views toward Cathedral Rock and access to the famous Red Rock Crossing area. Visitors come for picnicking, photography, creekside relaxation, wading and swimming when conditions are suitable.

The developed day-use area includes picnic facilities, and a group ramada is available separately for reservations. Because Crescent Moon is especially popular during weekends and peak travel seasons, arriving earlier in the day can make parking and finding a picnic spot easier.

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Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park combines picnic facilities with one of Oak Creek Canyon’s best-known swimming areas. Picnic tables are located near the entry and parking area, while the park’s historic orchard, creek scenery and natural sandstone water slide make it an especially popular warm-weather destination.

Slide Rock is a state park rather than a Forest Service picnic site, so its admission fees and rules are separate from the Red Rock Pass program. Because the park can become extremely busy during warm weather and holidays, check current park conditions and operating information before visiting.

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Oak Creek Canyon Picnic Areas

Banjo Bill Picnic Site

Banjo Bill Picnic Site is a Forest Service day-use area along State Route 89A in Oak Creek Canyon. Its creekside setting makes it appealing for picnicking and enjoying the shaded canyon environment. Access can be affected by seasonal conditions, wildfire closures and other Forest Service restrictions, so check current Coconino National Forest alerts before driving to the site.

Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point is a popular Oak Creek recreation area known for picnicking, swimming and access to the creek. Parking and day-use rules apply, and the site can be affected by temporary closures or seasonal restrictions. Check current Forest Service conditions before planning a visit.

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More Places To Picnic Around Sedona

Sedona also has picnic opportunities away from Oak Creek. City parks and recreation areas can be convenient alternatives when popular creekside sites are crowded or temporarily unavailable.

• Posse Grounds Park — a convenient city park with ramadas and nearby recreation facilities.
• Sunset Park — a family-friendly neighborhood park with recreation amenities.
• Red Rock State Park — a nature-focused state park along Oak Creek with trails and red rock scenery.
• Girdner Trail Area — hiking and scenic viewpoints on the west side of Sedona.

Tips For Planning A Sedona Picnic

• Check current site conditions and closures before leaving Sedona.
• Arrive early at popular Oak Creek destinations during weekends and warm-weather months.
• Bring plenty of drinking water, especially during summer.
• Pack food in secure containers and never leave trash behind.
• Check whether the recreation site charges a day-use or parking fee.
• Do not assume a Red Rock Pass covers state parks or independently managed recreation areas.
• Follow posted fire restrictions and never use grills or fires where prohibited.
• Keep children closely supervised around Oak Creek and slippery rocks.
• Wear sturdy footwear or water shoes around creek areas.
• Protect wildlife by never feeding animals or leaving food unattended.

Check Current Picnic Area Conditions

Access to Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon recreation sites can change because of wildfire, flooding, road work, seasonal conditions or resource protection. Before visiting a Forest Service picnic site, check current Coconino National Forest alerts. For Slide Rock State Park, check current Arizona State Parks information. This is especially important before making a special trip to Banjo Bill, Grasshopper Point or other Oak Creek Canyon recreation sites.

Sedona Picnic Areas FAQ

Where are the best places to picnic in Sedona?

Popular picnic destinations include Crescent Moon Picnic Site, Slide Rock State Park and recreation areas along Oak Creek Canyon. Sedona also has several city parks and other scenic recreation areas suitable for picnicking.

Where can I picnic with a view of Cathedral Rock?

Crescent Moon Picnic Site and Red Rock Crossing provide some of the best-known views of Cathedral Rock, along with access to Oak Creek and surrounding red rock scenery.

Can you picnic at Slide Rock State Park?

Yes. Slide Rock State Park has designated picnic areas near the entry and parking area in addition to creek access, trails and the natural water slide.

Is Crescent Moon a good picnic area?

Yes. Crescent Moon is one of Sedona’s most popular picnic destinations because of its creekside setting, Cathedral Rock views, photography opportunities and access to Red Rock Crossing.

Do Sedona picnic areas charge admission?

Some picnic and recreation sites charge day-use or parking fees, while others may be free. Fees and accepted passes vary according to which agency manages the site.

Does a Red Rock Pass cover Slide Rock State Park?

No. Slide Rock is an Arizona State Park and has its own admission fees and rules. Forest Service recreation passes do not substitute for state park admission.

Can you swim at Sedona picnic areas?

Some Oak Creek picnic areas provide access to water where visitors may swim or wade when conditions are suitable. Creek conditions can change quickly, and there are areas without lifeguards, so use caution and follow posted restrictions.

Are dogs allowed at Sedona picnic areas?

Pet rules vary by recreation site. Check the rules for the specific picnic area before visiting and keep pets leashed where required.

Can picnic areas in Oak Creek Canyon close temporarily?

Yes. Wildfire, flooding, road conditions, maintenance and other safety concerns can temporarily close picnic areas and recreation sites. Check current conditions before leaving.

What should I bring for a picnic in Sedona?

Bring food, plenty of drinking water, sun protection, secure containers, trash bags and appropriate footwear. Creekside visitors may also want water shoes and a change of clothing.

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