Alderwood Campground Introduce
If you're an Arizona local looking for a truly secluded and intimate camping experience away from the crowds, Alderwood Campground is a destination you need to know about. Unlike large, bustling campgrounds, Alderwood is a small, quiet retreat with a very limited number of sites, offering a sense of privacy and tranquility that is hard to find. Tucked away in the beautiful wilderness near Young, this campground is a hidden gem for those who cherish a simple, back-to-basics connection with nature. It’s a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the serene sounds of the forest and the gentle flow of a nearby creek, making it a favorite for those in search of a peaceful and restorative escape.
Alderwood Campground is located in the beautiful area of Young, AZ 85554, USA. Its remote location is a significant part of its charm. While it is tucked away from major roads, a review notes that it is "not too challenging to get to in a car," which is a pleasant surprise for a secluded spot. However, another review recommends having a "high clearance vehicle or 4WD," suggesting that the road leading to the campground can be rough or unpaved in some sections. This mix of accessibility and ruggedness is what defines the approach to this primitive campsite. Once you arrive, on-site parking is available. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, leading you to a special place that feels a world away from the city. The beautiful Heigler Creek is nearby, providing a picturesque setting and the calming sound of running water.
As a small, primitive campground, Alderwood offers minimal services, which is part of its appeal for those who prefer a less-developed experience.
Restrooms: The campground does have a public restroom, which is a convenient amenity not always found at primitive or free campsites. This offers a basic level of comfort for campers.
Tent Sites: Alderwood is primarily set up for tent camping. With only four sites, campers can enjoy a private and uncrowded experience, perfect for a quiet getaway.
On-Site Parking: Each site has an area for on-site parking, so you can keep your vehicle close to your tent.
Limited Services: It is important to note that the campground has "no services," meaning you should not expect amenities like running water at your site, electricity, or hookups. Campers must be prepared to be self-sufficient.
Alderwood Campground is defined by its unique features and highlights, which make it a truly special place to visit in Arizona.
Extreme Seclusion: With only four sites, the campground offers an unparalleled level of privacy. It’s a "tucked away" spot that feels far from the hustle and bustle, perfect for a serene escape.
Beautiful Natural Area: The surrounding area is described as "beautiful," with a nearby creek. The presence of Heigler Creek adds a significant element of natural beauty and a soothing soundtrack to your camping trip. A customer review raves about the "wild flowers... blooming" in April, highlighting the area’s scenic splendor.
Free Camping: One of the most compelling features is that it offers "free camp sites." This makes it an incredibly appealing option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the beauty of Arizona's wilderness.
Dog-Friendly: The campground allows dogs, which means you can bring your four-legged friends along for the adventure, making it a great choice for pet owners looking for a tranquil spot to explore with their companions.
Good for Kids: The natural setting and open space make Alderwood a great place for kids to run around and explore, away from the typical distractions of city life.
Alderwood Campground
Address: Young, AZ 85554, USA
Alderwood Campground is an ideal choice for the local Arizonan who prioritizes privacy, natural beauty, and a no-cost camping experience. The fact that it is a small, four-site campground makes it a rare find, providing a level of solitude that is hard to come by at more popular destinations. It's a place to bring those who are "special to me," as one reviewer put it, which speaks volumes about the intimate and cherished atmosphere of the site. The presence of a public restroom is a small but valuable amenity that adds a layer of comfort to this otherwise primitive experience. However, potential visitors should be prepared for the fact that a high clearance vehicle may be necessary, and they should be fully self-sufficient with all their camping gear and supplies. The natural features, including the beautiful creek and the blooming wildflowers in the spring, make it a picturesque destination. For those who embrace the "leave no trace" ethos and are looking for a peaceful, secluded, and free camping spot in the stunning wilderness near Young, Alderwood Campground is an absolutely perfect and special choice.
Alderwood Campground Details
Amenities
- Public restroom
- Restroom
- Tent sites
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- On-site parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
Alderwood Campground Photos










Alderwood Campground Location
Alderwood Campground Reviews
creek
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Small campground, only four sites. Beautiful area, creek nearby. Recommend high clearance vehicle or 4wd. No services.
May 03 · Carl RoedellAlderwood is absolutely my favorite campground in AZ right now. It is not too challenging to get to in a car, it is tucked away from the roads and offers free camp sites. I go in April when the wild flowers are starting to bloom, before the fire restrictions typically begin. Heigler Creek is absolutely beautiful. I want to bring everyone special to me to this special little spot.
May 07 · Monica Lenne (Moni)Really nice spot. Secluded and peaceful. I liked that it was a bit tough to get to, 14 miles Into haigler canyon but very worth it. Absolutely beautiful during the day, reached about 75°, we went at the end of April. COLD at night tho. Colder than you would think, warm blankets and a thermal protective sleeping bag is highly suggested. Robes too, like i said, super duper cold at night and in the morning. Spot #1 was perfect, lots of room, great shade during the day. Plenty of trees. Most spots have fire pits. It was kinda of annoying that there were "no motor vehicle" signs posted about every 20 ft and still people brought out there quads and what not. Kind of rude, but overall we had a very nice time. I would definitely come back here but when its warmer at night forsure. I would not suggest traveling to this campground during bad weather, the road is steep and narrow and trails a cliff most of the way down. Mud, rain, and snow could make this road extremely dangerous. Drive with caution. Sedans can make it but only if it can do well on hills. Wouldn't suggest older vehicles, You may get stuck. Make sure your tires have air too cause it gets pretty rocky at some points.
April 29 · LWe love this campground. Easy access to the creek.
May 31 · Michelle PowellCool spot. A little tough to get to which is nice since it keeps it from being crowded.
April 01 · Jason Dittsworth
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