Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse

Facility ·

Managed by the Bureau of Land Management

Hassayampa Field Office (Bureau of Land Management AZ) · Open Access

3,489 ft
Elevation
1891 Schoolhouse sign in the Agua Fria National Monument
Photo: BLM · Recreation.gov

In the Agua Fria National Monument, the Riverbend Recreation Area offers a peaceful setting along the Agua Fria River with rich pioneer history and wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors enjoy open desert views, low-growing vegetation, excellent opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing, and a short (less than ¼ mile) walk to the historic schoolhouse foundation.  

The 1891 Schoolhouse served local ranching and farming families until 1903. Though the building is gone, visitors can still see its rock foundation and learn about early education in Territorial Arizona. The site also reflects the broader history of settlement along the Agua Fria River and helps visitors imagine daily life for students who traveled long distances to attend school.

Hours and Seasons

Open year‑round. No restrictions or seasonal closures.

Features and Services

  • Access and Parking: A gravel road leads to parking at the Riverbend Recreation Area. A short trail leads to the Schoolhouse foundation.  
  • Cell Service: Limited; expect spotty reception in this remote area.
  • Toilets: None.
  • Drinking Water: None.
  • Pets: Allowed on leash; please pick up after your pet.
  • Camping: Primitive, dispersed camping is permitted on nearby BLM lands; check local regulations for fire and camping guidelines.
  • Nearby Amenities: Mayer and Cordes Lakes, about 10–15 miles away, offer food, fuel, lodging, and medical care.

Respect and Protect

Historic and archaeological sites are protected by law. Please leave artifacts where you find them and do not climb on walls or structures. By practicing responsible outdoor ethics, you help ensure future visitors can enjoy this remarkable site.

Getting there

Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse are in the Agua Fria National Monument, about 40 miles north of Phoenix, Arizona.

From Cordes Lakes, go east on Quail Run Road, which leaves town and turns to a well-maintained dirt road. Continue 0.25 miles after the pavement ends. At the fork, bear left and follow the road toward the EZ Ranch. Continue 1.25 miles to the Riverbend Recreation Area and look for the BLM kiosk.

34.31780, -112.07492 · 34°19'4.1"N 112°4'29.7"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 96°F in Jul, down to 58°F in Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F596167748393969489796758
Low °F343538425058666660493933
Precip in1.71.91.40.40.40.12.02.11.61.11.01.5

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 5.2 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

Fees and stay limits

The 1891 Schoolhouse is free (no fee required) for general visits by the public.   However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special recreation permit. Contact the Hassayampa Field Office for more information about special recreation permits.

From Recreation.gov, which is not always current. The operator's own page is the authority on what you will be charged.

Member photos

Common questions about Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse

Can you reserve a site at Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse?
No. Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse is not reservable through Recreation.gov, so sites are first-come, first-served or booked elsewhere.

Camping near Riverbend Recreation Area and 1891 Schoolhouse

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-04-23.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.