Andrew Bernier/KJZZ

Fossil Creek in Coconino National Forest.

Every year, more and more people visit Fossil Creek. In 2006, around 20,000 people visited. That number jumped to 80,000 in 2013. Now the Red Rock Ranger District, which manages the area, wants to implement an online reservation system.

Located about 100 miles north of Phoenix, the creek is one of only two “wild and scenic” rivers in the state. The undeveloped riparian area is home to lush vegetation and wildlife. Clear blue-green water, swimming holes and a waterfall make Fossil Creek a popular destination during peak season.

Nicole Branton, district ranger at the Red Rock Ranger District, said some visitors can go to extremes.

"People will come in middle of night, before our staff gets there, and cram themselves into any place that they can pull their vehicle off the road," said Branton. "And a lot of times those are really unsafe locations that may be destroying vegetation, it may be loosening soil that ends up in the water and a lot times, it’s blocking the road."

And those are just some of the reasons why the Red Rock Ranger District is looking to implement an online reservation system. Branton says the system could go live early next year.