A Spark in the Dark Campground

For Arizonans traveling along historic Route 66 or seeking a unique high-desert escape, A Spark in the Dark Campground offers a refreshing and welcoming alternative to traditional camping. This private homestead-turned-campground is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a tranquil and inclusive retreat that prides itself on providing a safe and friendly environment for all visitors. Situated in the vast and open landscape of Northern Arizona, it combines the rugged beauty of the high desert with a thoughtful approach to hospitality that makes every guest feel at home. It’s a perfect spot for anyone from solo travelers to families and groups looking for a hassle-free, comfortable, and memorable outdoor experience.

Located near the small town of Ash Fork, the campground is set on 40 acres of beautiful mountain, desert, and prairie land. At an elevation of around 5,000 feet, it offers a welcome relief from the hotter regions of the state and provides a climate that is generally comfortable for camping for much of the year. The open terrain and minimal light pollution create an ideal environment for stargazing, with dazzling views of the Milky Way, shooting stars, and a night sky that seems to go on forever. The property's diverse landscape offers various camping options, from drive-up sites to more secluded spots along a nature trail, allowing campers to choose the experience that best suits their needs. It's a place where you can watch stunning sunrises and sunsets, enjoy the fresh air, and feel a million miles away from the city.

A Spark in the Dark Campground is located at 45130 Celestial Pl Box 1311, Ash Fork, AZ 86320, USA. Its accessibility is a notable advantage, as it is surprisingly straightforward to reach, even for those with a medium-clearance vehicle. From I-40, you'll take a specific exit and then travel a few miles down a service road. Despite being off the main road, the trek is not difficult, as mentioned by a past visitor. This makes it an easy stop for those on a Route 66 road trip or for locals looking for a quick weekend getaway. The campground's location is also just a few miles from the town of Ash Fork, which provides convenient access to essentials like gas, groceries, and a few small restaurants. This blend of remote seclusion and nearby convenience is a major benefit.

As a private campground, A Spark in the Dark operates on a reservation system, which can be made online. This helps ensure that the campground is never overcrowded, preserving the peaceful and private atmosphere that campers so highly value.

The services at A Spark in the Dark are best described as "primitive plus," offering essential amenities that greatly enhance the dry camping experience.

• Tent Sites: The campground offers numerous tent sites, but they are not designated by number. Instead, campers can choose their own spot across the vast 40-acre property, allowing for a personalized and private experience.

• Restrooms: The campground provides well-maintained public restrooms, including a gender-neutral restroom, which is a significant amenity for a dry camping site. Visitors frequently praise the cleanliness of the porta-potty style restrooms.

• Moonlight Market: There is a self-serve "Moonlight Market" on site that provides necessities like water, firewood, emergency pet food, and bug spray, ensuring campers have access to what they need without having to leave the property.

• On-Site Parking: Campers can park their vehicles directly at their chosen site, making it easy to set up and access gear.

• Camping Fee: The campground operates on a paid basis, with a camping fee that reflects the private ownership and maintenance of the property and its amenities.

The highlights of A Spark in the Dark are centered on its inclusive atmosphere and the unique features provided by its proprietor.

• LGBTQ+ Friendly and Transgender Safespace: The campground is explicitly welcoming and inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community, creating a true safespace where all campers can feel comfortable and respected.

• Good for Kids and Kid-Friendly Hikes: The open spaces and a dedicated hiking trail make it a great place for families with children. Kids can explore safely, and there are a variety of areas for them to play and discover the outdoors.

• Dogs Allowed: As a pet-friendly campground, it is a great spot to bring your dogs. They are allowed to be off-leash as long as they are under the owner's control.

• Hiking and Activities: The property has a pleasant hiking trail, a meditation spot, and a "community fairgrounds" area with horseshoe pits and cornhole toss, providing a variety of activities for guests.

• Dark Skies: The near-zero light pollution provides some of the best stargazing in Arizona, a major draw for astronomers and anyone who appreciates the beauty of the night sky.

• The Proprietor, Clifford: As noted in customer reviews, the owner is a "living LEGEND" who makes every camper feel welcome. His attention to detail, from keeping the porta-potty clean to the stocked woodpile, is a major reason why people love this campground.

For inquiries and to book a stay, the best way to contact the campground is directly.

Address: 45130 Celestial Pl Box 1311, Ash Fork, AZ 86320, USA

Phone: (928) 600-5632

Email: TheSparkCampground@gmail.com

Due to its private nature, it's recommended to book through a booking service like Hipcamp or Airbnb where the property is listed. This is also where you will find the most current and detailed information on availability and camp rules.

Choosing A Spark in the Dark is a great decision for several reasons.

The most significant factor is the atmosphere. The campground is renowned for its friendly, welcoming, and safe environment, a quality that is explicitly highlighted by its LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safespace status. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a stress-free and non-judgmental camping experience. Additionally, the unique "primitive plus" model offers the best of both worlds. You get the peace and quiet of dry camping with the convenience of a clean restroom and a small on-site market, which is a major advantage. The pristine dark skies are a powerful draw for anyone who loves astronomy or simply wants to witness the beauty of a truly dark night. The location also makes it a perfect stop on a road trip or for those from Southern Arizona who need a quick escape from the heat. The owner, Clifford, is a huge part of the experience, with his hospitality and dedication making guests feel like lifelong friends. In a world of often-impersonal outdoor recreation, A Spark in the Dark offers a truly personal and special retreat. It's a place where you can camp comfortably, make new friends, and enjoy the wide-open beauty of Northern Arizona.

A Spark in the Dark Campground

45130 Celestial Pl Box 1311, Ash Fork, AZ 86320, USA