Sheep Bridge Hot Springs is a hidden gem tucked away in Yavapai County, Arizona alongside the Verde River near Camp Verde. The hot springs are situated between two rocky cliffs, which form a bridge-like structure over the river and are accessible via a short hike down Sheep Creek. The crystal clear waters of the creek provide an oasis for visitors looking to relax and enjoy nature.
The springs themselves consist of several natural pools that range from shallow to deep and offer temperatures ranging from 84-104°F (29-40°C). There are also numerous smaller pools scattered throughout the area which can be explored by wading through the creek or walking along its banks. Visitors come to Sheep Bridge Hot Springs for many reasons including seeking out its healing properties or simply wanting to take a break from their daily routine and escape into nature’s beauty.
Primitive Sheep Bridge Hot Springs offers something special — the chance to soak up some history! The surrounding area was once home to ancient ruins from various Native American tribes including Hohokam, Yavapai Apache and Salado cultures who left behind petroglyphs depicting their spiritual beliefs etched into rocks.
Camping near Sheep Bridge Hot Springs
One of the best places to go camping in Yavapai County is Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Located on the banks of the Verde River, this park boasts over 300 campsites with electric hookups as well as primitive sites for those who want a more rustic experience. The park also offers many activities such as fishing, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.
For a bit more solitude during your stay near Sheep Bridge Hot Springs, then consider visiting Lynx Lake Recreation Area near Prescott Valley. This area consists of two separate lakes surrounded by tall pines which provide plenty of shade throughout the day. Camping here can be quite peaceful since most visitors come just for day use rather than overnight stays, however there are still several campsites available if needed. You can enjoy fishing at either lake or take advantage of one of their numerous hiking trails that will lead you around both lakes and up into nearby hills with breathtaking views!
Hiking Trails near Sheep Bridge Hot Springs
Yavapai County has hundreds of miles of trails for hikers at all levels, from beginner to advanced. One popular spot for day-hikes is Granite Mountain Wilderness Area near Prescott. This area offers a variety of trails with varying degrees of difficulty, such as easy
strolls along creeks or more grueling hikes up steep inclines.
Another great option is Montezuma Castle National Monument near Camp Verde which features an ancient cliff dwelling built by Native Americans centuries ago. Visitors can take short hikes around this UNESCO World Heritage Site while learning about its history and culture through interpretive signs along the way.
Sycamore Canyon Wilderness south east of Flagstaff offers multi-day backpacking trips through rugged terrain with spectacular red rock formations and canyon walls lined with petroglyphs made by indigenous people long ago. The nearby Wet Beaver Creek Trail also provides great hiking experiences featuring crystal clear waters cascading over boulders into deep swimming holes.
Directions to Sheep Bridge Hot Springs
Take the I-17 North to exit 287 (Sheep Bridge Road). Turn right onto Sheep Bridge Road and follow it for 8.6 miles until you reach a 4 way intersection with Forest Road 219, Sheep Creek Road and Buckskin Mountain Parkway.
Turn left onto Forest Road 219 and continue for 7.3 miles until you come to a sign marking the entrance of the Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Area on your left hand side. Follow this road for another 6 miles until you come to an unmarked dirt road (FR 213) on your right hand side that leads up into the canyon.
Take this dirt road for 1 mile before turning left at the tee junction onto FR 214A which will lead you down into Sheep Bridge Canyon where you’ll find parking and access points to hike down to the hot springs located in between two large boulders just off of Sycamore Creek. Enjoy!
Address: Northeast of Phoenix Valley, Tonto National Forest, Arizona
Season: Year round
Website: fs.usda.gov/recarea/tonto/recarea/
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