Camp Geronimo Site 13

For generations, Arizona’s youth have discovered the spirit of adventure and the power of camaraderie at Camp Geronimo, a premier scouting destination nestled in the breathtaking high country near Payson. This is not a typical public campground; it is a dedicated facility for the Boy Scouts of America, and its unique structure and purpose make it a cornerstone of outdoor education and youth development in our state. Within this expansive and well-regarded camp, specific sites stand out for their features and reputation. Camp Geronimo Site 13 is one such location, often praised by those who have had the privilege of camping there as one of the best sites in the entire camp.

The reviews from scouts and leaders highlight the key reason for its popularity: the quality of the site itself. A well-maintained and thoughtfully upgraded campsite can make a significant difference in the camping experience, and it appears Troop 607 has taken that to heart. The collective effort to improve the site demonstrates the strong sense of community and stewardship that is central to the scouting movement. This dedication to enhancing the environment for future campers is a testament to the values instilled at Camp Geronimo. It's a place where tradition meets continuous improvement, ensuring that each new generation of scouts has an even better opportunity to connect with nature and learn essential skills.

The camp’s location beneath the dramatic Mogollon Rim provides a stunning natural backdrop for the many activities offered. The cool, forested setting is a welcome retreat from the summer heat and serves as a natural classroom for learning everything from wilderness survival to environmental science. The energy and positive feedback surrounding sites like Camp Geronimo Site 13 are a reflection of the larger camp's success in providing an unforgettable and enriching experience. For parents and scout leaders, knowing that there are dedicated, well-regarded sites like this one within the camp is a huge plus, simplifying the planning process and guaranteeing a high-quality experience for the entire troop.

While the general public cannot simply book a stay at this campsite, the knowledge of its existence and reputation is invaluable for those involved in the scouting community. It represents the pinnacle of what a youth-focused outdoor program can offer, and the high praise from past visitors confirms its status as a top-tier destination for outdoor adventure in Arizona.

Camp Geronimo is located approximately 20 miles north of Payson, Arizona, USA, at an elevation of 5,200 feet. The general address is Payson, AZ 85541. The camp is accessed via a well-known route off of State Highway 87, a major road connecting the Phoenix metropolitan area to Arizona’s high country. From Highway 87, campers turn onto the Control Road, a maintained dirt road, which leads to Webber Creek Road and then into the camp property. The drive is scenic and provides a gradual transition from the desert floor to the lush pine forests of the Mogollon Rim.

Access to Camp Geronimo is controlled and limited to registered participants of the Boy Scouts of America programs. This is not a public-use facility. All visitors, including scouts, leaders, and parents, must be registered for a specific camp session or event to be granted entry. Once inside, on-site parking is available. However, a key part of the camp's operational model is to keep vehicles restricted to the parking lot after initial drop-off and setup. This policy helps maintain the peaceful, natural atmosphere of the campsites and ensures the safety of everyone on foot.

The camp's remote location offers a true sense of escape, while its proximity to Payson means essential services and supplies are a manageable drive away. The controlled access and managed environment contribute to a sense of safety and community that is central to the scouting experience. This balance is a significant reason why troops from across the state and beyond choose Camp Geronimo for their outdoor programs.

As a private scouting facility, Camp Geronimo Site 13 and the larger camp offer services tailored to a structured youth program.

• On-site Parking: Parking is available at the campsite for initial loading and unloading, with a designated lot for vehicles during the camping session to maintain a vehicle-free environment within the camping areas.
• Permanent Structures: Many sites within Camp Geronimo, including Site 13, are equipped with permanent structures such as latrines, fire circles, and pavilions to facilitate troop activities and provide essential comforts.
• Structured Programs: The camp provides a comprehensive array of programs for scouts, including merit badge classes, aquatics, shooting sports, and high-adventure treks. These are all part of a pre-planned schedule for registered troops.
• Dining Hall: During the summer, meals are often provided in a central dining hall, though many troops may choose to cook their own meals at their campsite.
• Medical Services: The camp maintains a Health Lodge staffed by qualified medical personnel to address any health and safety concerns that may arise.

The services are not for public use but are part of the larger, all-inclusive scouting experience that Camp Geronimo provides. They are designed to support a safe, educational, and fun environment for young people and their leaders.

Camp Geronimo Site 13 is praised for several key features that make it a standout location.

• Exceptional Upgrades: As noted by a reviewer, the site has received "awesome upgrades," suggesting it is a well-maintained and improved space that goes beyond the basic camping setup.
• Reputation for Excellence: The site is referred to as the "BEST SITE AT GERONIMO," which speaks to its popularity and the positive experiences of those who have camped there.
• Community and Tradition: The strong connection between Troop 607 and the site highlights a sense of tradition and ownership, which contributes to its well-kept condition and welcoming atmosphere.
• Natural Setting: The location within the vast pine forests of the Mogollon Rim provides a beautiful and serene environment, perfect for a true outdoor adventure.
• Access to Camp Facilities: Being a campsite within the larger Camp Geronimo, campers at Site 13 have access to all the extensive program areas of the camp, from the lake to the shooting ranges.

For all inquiries related to Camp Geronimo, including reservations and programs, you must contact the Grand Canyon Council of the Boy Scouts of America. The camp itself does not handle public inquiries.

• Address: The general area is Payson, AZ 85541, USA.
• Phone: Please check the official Grand Canyon Council website for the most up-to-date contact information for their main office.

For those in the Arizona scouting community, choosing Camp Geronimo, and specifically a highly-regarded site like Site 13, is an easy decision. It is the gold standard for a structured, educational, and adventurous outdoor program. The primary reason to choose this site is its reputation for being a high-quality, well-maintained space, which simplifies the logistical challenges of a troop camping trip. A well-cared-for site with a sense of community ownership, as noted by its past visitors, ensures that leaders can focus on the scouts' experience rather than on the conditions of the camp.

Beyond the quality of the site itself, the broader offerings of Camp Geronimo are invaluable. The cool, forested setting is a welcome change from the Arizona lowlands, providing a perfect backdrop for learning and adventure. The extensive and well-planned programming, from merit badge classes to high-adventure treks, ensures that every scout, regardless of age or experience level, will be challenged and engaged. This comprehensive approach to outdoor education is what sets Camp Geronimo apart. While the camp is not open to the general public, its purpose as a premier youth destination makes it an essential part of Arizona's outdoor recreation landscape. For families with children in scouting, a trip to Camp Geronimo, and a stay at a highly-rated site like Site 13, is an experience that promises skill development, personal growth, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Camp Geronimo Site 13

Payson, AZ 85541, USA