Sedona Ranger Station: A Historic Gateway to Red Rock Country

The Sedona Ranger Station, located on Brewer Road, is a significant piece of Sedona's history. Constructed in 1917 by the U.S. Forest Service, it was established to administer the Red Rock Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest. The complex originally included a residence, barn, and pumphouse, showcasing a classic bungalow-style architecture. In its early years, the Ranger Station played a crucial role in managing the surrounding forest and resources. District Ranger Jesse Bushnell advocated for improvements to the site as early as 1915. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built the barn and pumphouse in 1935, further expanding the station's capabilities. The barn, built to USFS standard plan R-3-45A-7, provided workspace and storage. Over time, the U.S. Forest Service sold the property in 2005 to a private owner. In 2014, the City of Sedona purchased the 3.4-acre parcel to preserve the historic buildings and develop a park. Both the ranger station and barn are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are designated as Sedona historic landmarks. The city plans to restore and renovate the structures to create a community park, with the house serving as a meeting and event space and the barn accommodating art exhibitions and performances.