his trip will be taking us into a lush riparian habitat, including a shady park with a little stream and an open area good for sparrows. This location is a hidden gem! West Clear Creek is one of several perennial spring-fed streams that flow from the Mogollon Rim into the Verde River. We will walk through a Forest Service campground with lush riparian growth and into upland desert scrub following the creek. Spring is always a bit of a surprise party depending on the weather. Hopeful species include summer and western tanagers, orioles, canyon wrends, The Common Black Hawk, yellow warblers, and flycatchers. Pit toilet available at the parking lot.

eBird Checklist – 25 Apr 2025 – Clear Creek Campground – 31 species. 

Rating: 3
Transportation: Vans
Meal: Bring your own hearty snacks
Cost: $75

PPart of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival

Join us 100 miles North of Phoenix in North Central Arizona’s Verde Valley for the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival. Experience birding during the peak Spring migration season at Dead Horse Ranch State Park on the banks of the Verde River. Close proximity to the Verde, Oak Creek, Sycamore Creek, and other perennial waters offers a wide selection of guided tours, hikes, and workshops in one of Arizona’s richest birding habitats.

Our experienced guides have extensive knowledge of birds and the unique habitat that makes this region special. The festival, presented each April by Friends of the Verde River, is a purpose-driven community benefit organization and 501(c) 3 non-profit working to preserve one of the last perennial flowing rivers in the American Southwest.

Festival site is at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.