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Gila County's
Streams & Creeks
Streams in Gila County
In addition to its many lakes, there are Dozens of streams, creeks, rivers and reservoirs flowing through, around, and in Arizona’s Gila County. They are the very lifeblood of our state. Some of the larger Rivers provide us with power, and with water for farming and recreation.
Many of the larger rivers are dammed to create impoundments that protect us from floods and droughts, and those impoundments create some of our state’s most popular places to play. These bodies of water themselves are great places to have fun, providing fishing, boating, tubing, and swimming.
Many of these gorgeous natural backdrops provide habits for many species of fish, birds and animals, making them great places for photographers, bird watchers and wildlife viewing. We invite you to Explore the Wild and Discover Gila County and its water adventures.
FIND STREAMS, CREEKS AND RESERVOIR ADVENTURES IN GILA COUNTY
CC Cragin Reservoir
This narrow, winding body of water looks more like a canyon-bound river than a reservoir. Nestled between forested canyon walls it provides picturesque water recreation in a secluded, wooded setting.
Campaign Creek
This is a very pleasant hike through the Eastern Superstitions along Campaign Creek. It is a gradually climbing "out and back" route that follows the Campaign Trail (#256). This is wild territory but beautiful.
Canyon Creek
Canyon Creek is popular among anglers fishing for rainbow trout. The Arizona Game and Fish Department Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery is nearby. Great fly fishing and very secluded from the outside world.
Cherry Creek
Cherry Creek is a 57-mile (92 km) tributary of the Salt River in central Arizona. The creek flows south from the Mogollon Rim to join the Salt River about 10 miles (16 km) above Theodore Roosevelt Lake. Indian Ruins and more.
Chevelon Creek
This may be Arizona's best brown trout stream. There are some rainbows but the stream has far more brown trout than rainbows. Steep canyon walls make this a true adventure to get there but when you do, it is amazing.
Christopher Creek
If you’re ready for a real outdoor adventure, and a great summer day trip & hike into one of Arizona’s gorgeous mountain canyons, then check out Christopher Creek’s Box Canyon and waterfall. Beautiful area in the pines of Rim Country.
Cibecue Creek Falls
The further you go, the better it gets. Clear blue-green pools get wider, and the canyon narrows. Tiny cascades and large boulders add to the experience. Be careful in the creek as it can get slippery at times. Permits are required.
East Verde River Water Wheel
The East Verde River is probably the best known river system in central, Arizona. When the temperatures rise in the valley, this is the closest respite for cooler temperatures and unlimited recreational opportunities.
Ellison Creek
At first jump, the water is so cold it takes your breath away for a few seconds. Why is it that the kids just never seem to mind the cold and just go for it. This is one of Rim Country's favorite summertime getaways. Summer hot spot.
Fossil Creek
This strenuous trail descends four miles into a 1600' deep canyon and then it comes in to view, The waterfall! Make sure you are prepared, this is not a leisurely stroll. You will need lots of water, good shoes and a lot of grit!
Gila River
The Gila and the San Pedro Rivers merge together in Winkelman, AZ and provide a great recreation retreat for birding, history and geological adventure. The Gila River is one of the longest Rivers in the Western United States.
Haigler Creek
A rugged, non-technical descent of the gorgeous sculpted granite, clear water and deep pools of Haigler Creek is the perfect summer time adventure. They don't call it the Hell's Gate Wilderness for nothing. Come prepared!
Horton Creek
Like Mother Nature’s “water cooler”, Horton Spring gushes cold, crystal-clear water year-round. The easy Horton Creek Hiking Trail follows the banks of beautiful, spring-fed Horton Creek.
Upper Salt River
Experience spectacular Salt River rafting in the Upper Salt River Canyon! Paddle through an incredible 2000-foot deep canyon as you take on rapids such as “Maytag,” “Overboard” and “Mescal Falls”.
Tonto Creek
Tonto Creek is a year round stream with a considerable water flow that has formed a deep, remote and often narrow canyon below the Mogollon Rim in central Arizona.
Workman Creek
Workman Creek Falls is a nice 200 foot waterfall that you can visit right from your car, located in the Tonto National Forest. In the fall this area is ablaze with many colors and looks like a postcard.
