A few of us are planning a trip to the Verde Hot Springs. Shoot safely a bit on the way. Let me know if you are interested in coming along. The Childs Power Plant as seen from the camping area. In 1908 the Arizona Power Company began construction of the Childs Power Plant. For more than 90 years, the water of Fossil Creek had been diverted by a system of pipes and flumes from its natural course to power the turbines of the Childs and Irving hydroelectric plants. During this time, Fossil Creek had been reduced to a mere trickle, compared with the normal one million gallons per hour flow once witnessed by early inhabitants of the region. In 2004, APS, the current owner of the plants, agreed to decommission them and restore the creek to its natural flow. (From Pine-Strawberry Archeological and Historical Society) The area is now a very popular dispersed camping area. It sits below the remnants of the old power plant buildings on the edge of the Verde River. A short hike upstream and some wading will get you to the ruins of the Verde Hot Springs, a once famous resort. Photos & Multimedia At a Glance Open Season: Year round Usage: Medium-Heavy Busiest Season: Weekends Restrictions: 5 Day Stay Limit and Public Nudity is Prohibited (see Forest Order) Closest Towns: Camp Verde, AZ and Strawberry, AZ Restroom: Vault Toilet Operated By: Red Rock Ranger District - 928-203-2900 General Information Directions: Location: About 30 miles southeast of Camp Verde or 86 miles south of Flagstaff off paved and graveled roads some of which are always steep and rough and usually muddy after rains. Access: From the White Bridge in Camp Verde, go east on Hwy 260 6.8 miles to FR 708 (Fossil Creek Road); turn right and go 15 miles to the junction of FR 708 and FR 502. Go south on FR 502 for 6 miles of VERY BAD Road to the Childs Power Plant and the Verde River. General Notes: Attractions: Trails for hiking and horseback riding, Unique rock formations, Great scenery, Wildlife viewing, Lush riparian area. High clearance vehicles highly recommended. Four-wheel-drive may be helpful.
Posted on: Mon, 17 Mar 2014 18:57:37 +0000
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