The Verde River leaves the wide flood plains behind and becomes one of the Southwest's unique recreation opportunities. Abundant wildlife, rapids and canyon walls make this a special place to be. Fossil Creek with its iconic pools and clear water combine with the Verde River. The East Verde River flows down from the Mogollon Rim, connecting Payson with the Verde River. This region includes the river segments designated as part of the National Wild & Scenic River System and the community of Payson. In 1984, 40.5 miles of the river between Camp Verde and Horseshoe Reservoir were designated and another 16.8 miles of Fossil Creek were added in 2009.
