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Phoenix Summer Heat: Cool Off at the Salt River Sheep's Crossing Recreation Area

  • Writer: Shelby Matthews
    Shelby Matthews
  • Mar 22
  • 2 min read

If you're looking for the best way to cool off during summer in Phoenix, the Salt River is one of our favorite spots for families.


From swimming and tubing to relaxing on the riverbank, it’s an easy and affordable way to spend a hot Arizona day outdoors. Check out our full YouTube VLOG

Sheep's Crossing Salt River Arizona

Best Family Spot: Sheep’s Crossing Recreation Area

Our favorite place to visit the Salt River with kids is Sheep's Crossing Recreation Area.

This area is perfect for families because:

  • There’s sand for kids to play in

  • Easy access to the water

  • Calm areas for swimming

  • Plenty of space to spread out

If you’re visiting the Salt River with young kids, this is one of the most family-friendly access points but it does get busy.


Salt River Pass & Parking Info

You’ll need a Tonto Daily Pass which you can get online, or at the kiosk at the Phond D Sutton parking lot. It's $8 if you get it in advance or $12 at the kiosk. You can also use your America the Beautiful Pass.

Parking fills up quickly in the summer, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early.


Sheep's Crossing Salt River Arizona

How to Access the River

GPS to Sheep’s Crossing and it will take you to the parking lot, you can carry your belongings down to the riverbank from the parking lot. I recommend a wagon, you can blow up your floats in the parking lot and carry them or just bring everything and do it at the riverbank.

Salt River Tubing & Kayaking Route

If you want to float the Salt River, this is a popular and easy route:

  • Start: Sheep’s Crossing

  • End: Phon D Sutton Recreation Area

You can float using:

  • Tubes

  • Kayaks

  • Paddleboards

Make sure to plan transportation ahead of time or two cars, one parked at Phon D. Sutton, since this is a one-way float.


Swimming at the Salt River in Arizona

Tips for Visiting the Salt River with Kids

To make the most of your day at the Salt River in Phoenix:

  • Go early to avoid extreme heat and get a spot. You can bring a shade tent.

  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, here is our favorite cooler - keeps everything cold, super durable and easy to carry.

  • Pack mineral sunscreen

  • Use life jackets for kids, coast guard approved

  • These are our favorite river tubes so I know that they won't pop or deflate while my kids are in it

  • Check river and weather conditions before you go

  • Plan to stay for the day - we always bring our Portable Grill and cook out

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