Barfoot Park

Introduction / Overview

Barfoot Park offers a stunning, high-elevation camping experience that is a true breath of fresh air for Arizona locals. Located at over 8,100 feet in the Chiricahua Mountains of Cochise County, this campground is a perfect antidote to the summer heat, providing a cool and tranquil escape. It's a destination for campers who appreciate a more rustic, nature-focused environment, where the main attractions are the serene landscape and the abundant wildlife. The setting, often described as a park-like conifer forest with a lush meadow at its center, creates a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for unwinding.

The unique high-elevation ecosystem of Barfoot Park makes it a standout destination. The blend of dense pine and fir stands with open meadows provides a habitat that is particularly rich in birdlife. For anyone interested in bird watching, this campground is a must-visit, offering the chance to spot rare and specialty species that are not commonly found elsewhere in Arizona. This focus on natural beauty and ecological diversity is what defines the Barfoot Park experience.

While the campground provides a more primitive setting, it is well-suited for a variety of visitors. Its family-friendly nature, noted in available public data, makes it a great option for introducing kids to the outdoors in a cool, forested environment. The peaceful surroundings ensure that a stay here is not just a camping trip, but a restorative retreat into one of Arizona's most beautiful mountain ranges. It is a place where you can disconnect from daily life and immerse yourself in a quiet and visually stunning landscape.

Location and Accessibility

Barfoot Park is situated in the majestic Chiricahua Mountains within Cochise County, Arizona, with the address listed as Cochise County, AZ 85632, USA. Its remote, high-elevation location is part of its charm, offering a true sense of escape. The journey to the campground is a key part of the adventure, as it takes you through scenic forest roads and offers spectacular views as you climb in elevation.

As the campground is located in a secluded area, accessibility can be a consideration. The roads leading to it may be unpaved or require a vehicle with some ground clearance, especially after inclement weather. It is always a good idea for visitors to check current road conditions with the Coronado National Forest office before heading out. The destination's remote nature means that visitors should arrive well-prepared with all necessary supplies, as there are no stores or services in the immediate vicinity.

On-site parking is available, a crucial amenity for a remote campground. This ensures that campers have a convenient place to park their vehicles while they set up their site and enjoy their stay. The campground's proximity to other notable areas like Rustler Park and the Chiricahua National Monument also makes it an excellent base camp for exploring the wider region. You can easily access a variety of hiking trails that connect to other parts of the mountain range from this location.

Services Offered

• Camping Sites: Barfoot Park provides sites for camping, offering a place to pitch a tent and enjoy the outdoors. It is a primitive camping experience focused on the natural environment.

• On-site Parking: Dedicated on-site parking is available, providing a convenient and secure place to park your vehicle during your stay.

• Good for Kids: The campground is noted as being good for kids, suggesting a safe and enjoyable environment for families to explore and play.

Features / Highlights

• High-Elevation Coolness: A major feature of Barfoot Park is its elevation, which provides a welcome relief from the heat that defines much of Arizona. It offers a comfortable and refreshing climate, making it an ideal summer retreat.

• Abundant Birdlife: The campground is a haven for bird watchers. The combination of a spring-fed meadow and conifer forest creates a unique habitat for a variety of species, including the rare Mexican Chickadee and other specialty birds. The area is a recognized part of the Arizona Birding Trail, confirming its importance for this activity.

• Scenic Environment: Barfoot Park is characterized by its picturesque setting. Nestled among tall pines and with a lush meadow, the landscape is both serene and beautiful, offering a peaceful escape for nature lovers.

• Rustic, Off-the-Grid Experience: For those who prefer a camping experience without the frills of modern amenities, Barfoot Park is perfect. Its primitive nature allows visitors to fully disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world.

• Accessibility to Hiking: The campground is located near the Crest Trail and other routes, providing ample opportunities for hiking and exploring the Chiricahua Wilderness. This makes it a great spot for both leisurely strolls and more strenuous treks.

Contact Information

Address: Cochise County, AZ 85632, USA

Phone: There is no publicly listed phone number for Barfoot Park. For up-to-date information on fees, road conditions, and any potential closures, it is recommended to contact the Coronado National Forest office.

What is worth choosing

Barfoot Park is a compelling choice for Arizona campers who are looking for a genuine, high-elevation escape. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its focus on the natural environment and the unique experiences it offers. The campground is not about extensive amenities or commercialized fun; it is about providing a serene backdrop for those who appreciate the simple beauty of nature. Its high elevation makes it an ideal spot to seek refuge from the heat, and the lush, forested landscape is a refreshing change from the state's typical desert terrain.

The lack of reviews in the provided information points to its secluded nature, suggesting that it remains a bit of a hidden gem, undiscovered by the masses. This can be a huge advantage for those who crave solitude and a quiet camping experience. It means you are more likely to find a peaceful spot and have the natural world largely to yourself. The fact that it is a recognized birding destination also adds a unique layer of appeal for a specific niche of nature enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the "good for kids" classification indicates that the environment is safe and suitable for family adventures, offering a great opportunity to get children engaged with the outdoors. The on-site parking is a practical convenience that makes the primitive camping experience more manageable. For Arizona locals who have been to the more popular, crowded campgrounds and are seeking something more authentic and secluded, Barfoot Park offers a rewarding alternative. It is a place to unplug, breathe in the cool, clean air, and truly appreciate the quiet, understated beauty of the Chiricahua Mountains. It is a destination that promises a real connection to the wilderness and an experience that is both peaceful and profoundly memorable.

Barfoot Park

Cochise County, AZ 85632, USA