Facilities

The Verde River Greenway State Natural Area is located next to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Please pack out anything that you pack in, and do not take any plants or wildlife home with you. The area is safe and pleasant to visit, especially for those who prefer the natural surroundings of the Verde River corridor. There is no camping along the Verde River. Also, no vehicular use or campfires are allowed. However, Dead Horse Ranch State Park provides facilities and camping areas for those to wish access the Natural Area.

Hiking, Equestrian, & Biking Trails

The designated hiking trails in the Natural Area are connected with the Dead Horse Ranch State Park trail system. The Jail Trail, about ½ mile, connects the Natural Area with old town Cottonwood. There is also about a mile of trail along Verde River.

Fishing

Along the river, you can catch smallmouth bass, catfish, and largemouth bass. In the Winter, trout is stocked at the Tuzigoot Bridge, the 10th street bridge, and at the River Day Use area at Dead Horse Ranch. Arizona Game & Fish also stocks at various points along the river, all the way to Camp Verde.

A valid Arizona fishing license is required for anglers fourteen and older. Licensing information is available online at Arizona Game & Fish, or purchase a fishing license at a local dealer.

Swimming

Swimming is allowed anywhere along the river. No lifeguard on duty. Swimming is at your own risk.

Boat Ramp

See Dead Horse Ranch's information

Non-Motorized Watercraft

The river is a fantastic place to canoe, see Paddle Maps for route information. A river access point is located at the Tuzigoot bridge. You can put in at the Tuzigoot bridge and take out at Dead Horse Ranch; or put in at Dead Horse Ranch and take out at 89A. Check the stream levels before planning your trip. There's lots of twists and turns so be aware of sleepers and strainers. When in doubt: Scout.

Wildlife Viewing

Black Hawks nest along the river in summer and Great Blue Herons can be seen year round. Wintertime brings Southwestern Bald Eagles and many waterfowl. Deer, coyotes, river otters, raccoons, beavers, bobcats and the occasional mountain lion can also be spied.

The lagoons and the Verde River provide excellent habitat for birds. The park boasts an extensive bird list (almost 200 species) and is also home to the yearly Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is also included in the Tuzigoot Important Bird Area (IBA). Avian species within this IBA include several sensitive, threatened, or endangered birds listed as species of concern.

Download Printable Bird List ( 770 KB PDF)