Grasshopper Point and Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona Arizona

Grasshopper Point Swimming & Picnic Area Near Sedona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Reviewed and updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on .

Grasshopper Point is a scenic day-use area along Oak Creek about two miles north of Sedona on State Route 89A. Surrounded by steep canyon walls and shade trees, the site is known for its deep swimming hole, creekside picnicking, short hiking opportunities and access to the Oak Creek landscape. Picnic tables and vault toilets are available, but visitors should bring their own drinking water. Camping, campfires and glass containers are prohibited, and cliff jumping or diving is strongly discouraged because water depth, submerged rocks and creek conditions can change.

Temporary Closure Notice: Grasshopper Point is currently closed under the Coconino National Forest Oak Creek Temporary Area Closure following the 2026 Pocket Fire. The order is scheduled through September 30, 2026 unless rescinded or extended. Check current Coconino National Forest alerts before driving to Grasshopper Point because reopening dates and creek access can change.

About Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point is part of the Oak Creek recreation corridor in Coconino National Forest and is one of the closest creek-access day-use areas to Sedona. Visitors come primarily for swimming, picnicking, relaxing beside Oak Creek and exploring the surrounding canyon scenery.

The parking area is relatively small and can fill quickly during warm-weather weekends and holidays. Once the site reaches capacity, additional vehicles may have to wait until parking spaces become available.

Swimming At Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point has a deep natural pool along Oak Creek that is popular during warm weather. The water is typically cold, and the creek bottom can be uneven, slippery and rocky. Water shoes with good traction are useful around the shoreline and creek bed.

There is no controlled swimming pool environment, and natural creek conditions can change after storms. Avoid cliff jumping and diving because submerged rocks, changing water levels and hidden obstacles can cause serious injury.

Picnic Facilities

Grasshopper Point provides picnic tables and vault toilets within the day-use area. Shade varies by location, so visitors may want sun protection during warmer months. Potable drinking water is not available, so bring enough water for everyone in your group.

The site is intended for day use only. Overnight camping and campfires are not permitted.

Hiking & Fishing Near Grasshopper Point

Short trails and creekside routes around Grasshopper Point allow visitors to explore Oak Creek Canyon beyond the main swimming area. Allen’s Bend Trail provides access along the creek and connects with additional hiking routes in the surrounding canyon.

Fishing is also possible along portions of Oak Creek. Anglers should review current Arizona Game and Fish regulations before fishing because special regulations apply to some sections of Oak Creek.

Grasshopper Point Hours & Fees

Grasshopper Point is normally operated as a year-round day-use area, but opening hours can vary by season and temporary closures may occur because of wildfire, flooding, weather or maintenance. Check current Coconino National Forest information before visiting.

Current day-use pricing is approximately $15 per vehicle for up to five people, with a separate per-person fee for walk-in and bicycle visitors. Grasshopper Point is concession-operated, so the standard Red Rock Pass and America the Beautiful pass are not accepted. Fees and accepted passes can change, so confirm current rates before your visit.

Grasshopper Point Rules & Safety

  • Grasshopper Point is a day-use area; overnight camping is not permitted.
  • Campfires are prohibited.
  • Glass containers are prohibited.
  • Bring your own drinking water because potable water is not available at the site.
  • Do not jump or dive from cliffs or rocks into Oak Creek.
  • Watch for slippery rocks, uneven footing and changing creek depths.
  • Check weather and flash-flood conditions before entering Oak Creek Canyon.
  • Follow all posted Forest Service closure notices and site regulations.
  • Pack out trash and leave the creek area as you found it.

Directions & Parking

From Uptown Sedona, drive north on State Route 89A toward Oak Creek Canyon for approximately two miles. The signed Grasshopper Point entrance is along the east side of the highway. The access road and parking area are paved.

Parking is limited and the lot can fill early on warm weekends and holidays. Arriving near opening time generally provides the best chance of finding a space. Do not park along State Route 89A where parking is prohibited.

More Information

Red Rock Ranger District
Coconino National Forest
8375 State Route 179
Sedona AZ 86341
928-203-7500

Because wildfire, flooding and seasonal conditions can temporarily close Oak Creek recreation sites, confirm current access before making a special trip.

Tips For Visiting Grasshopper Point

  • Check current closure status before leaving Sedona.
  • Arrive early during summer, weekends and holidays because parking is limited.
  • Bring plenty of drinking water.
  • Wear sturdy shoes or water shoes around the rocky creek shoreline.
  • Bring sun protection even though portions of the creek are shaded.
  • Expect cold creek water even during warm weather.
  • Keep children closely supervised around deep water and slippery rocks.
  • Avoid cliff jumping and diving.
  • Pack out everything you bring into the recreation area.

Best Time To Visit Grasshopper Point

Late spring through early fall is generally the most popular time for swimming and creekside picnicking, while cooler months can be more comfortable for hiking and photography. Summer weekends are often the busiest, so early weekday visits usually offer a quieter experience.

Monsoon storms can create sudden changes in Oak Creek and increase flash-flood danger. Always check current weather and Forest Service alerts before entering the canyon.

Grasshopper Point Map

Map showing Grasshopper Point along Oak Creek north of Sedona Arizona

More Places To Explore Near Grasshopper Point

Grasshopper Point FAQ

Where is Grasshopper Point?

Grasshopper Point is along Oak Creek approximately two miles north of Sedona on State Route 89A at the lower end of Oak Creek Canyon.

Can you swim at Grasshopper Point?

Yes. Grasshopper Point is known for a natural swimming hole along Oak Creek. Water conditions and depth vary, and visitors should use caution around slippery rocks and submerged obstacles.

Is cliff jumping allowed at Grasshopper Point?

Cliff jumping and diving are strongly discouraged because creek depth changes and submerged rocks or other hazards may not be visible from above.

Does Grasshopper Point have picnic tables?

Yes. Picnic tables are available within the day-use area.

Are there restrooms at Grasshopper Point?

Yes. Vault toilets are available at the recreation area.

Is drinking water available at Grasshopper Point?

No potable drinking water is provided, so visitors should bring their own water.

How much does Grasshopper Point cost?

Current day-use pricing is approximately $15 per vehicle for up to five people, with a separate fee for walk-in and bicycle visitors. Rates can change, so confirm current pricing before visiting.

Does the Red Rock Pass work at Grasshopper Point?

No. Grasshopper Point is concession-operated and the standard Red Rock Pass is not accepted. The America the Beautiful pass is also not accepted for the site’s concession fee.

Can you camp at Grasshopper Point?

No. Grasshopper Point is a day-use recreation area and overnight camping is not permitted.

Is Grasshopper Point currently open?

Grasshopper Point can be affected by temporary wildfire, flood or weather closures. As of September 14, 2026, the site is included in a temporary Oak Creek closure associated with post-Pocket Fire flood hazards. Check current Forest Service alerts before visiting.


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