Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon

Red Rock Crossing at Crescent Moon Picnic Area is where you find the most photographed view in Sedona: Cathedral Rock's spires reflecting in the still waters of Oak Creek, framed by cottonwood and sycamore trees. It is also one of the best family swimming and picnicking spots in the area -- calmer, less crowded, and more scenic than Slide Rock.

Oak Creek flows gently through this section, creating shallow wading areas, deeper swimming holes, and sandy beaches. Buddha Beach is the family hub -- a natural sandy beach with gentle entry into calm water. Toddlers can wade in inches of water while older kids swim in waist-to-chest-deep sections. The creek bottom is a mix of sand and smooth rock, making water shoes helpful but not essential.

Flat sandstone slabs line the creek banks, creating natural platforms for sunbathing, picnicking, and watching kids play in the water. The picnic area has tables, restrooms, and shade from mature cottonwood trees. Families spread out along several hundred yards of creek with plenty of space between groups.

The photography is world-class. Late afternoon light turns Cathedral Rock from red to orange to deep crimson as it reflects in the creek. Even without a professional camera, the view is stunning. Many Sedona postcards, paintings, and travel photos were taken from this exact spot.

At $11 per vehicle, Red Rock Crossing is one of the best values in Sedona. Combine the swimming, picnicking, and views for a half-day to full-day of family relaxation. It is a perfect complement to Sedona's more adventurous activities -- come here to decompress after a morning of hiking or Jeep touring.