Camp Geronimo Site 18

For Arizonans seeking a truly immersive and adventurous outdoor experience, Camp Geronimo offers a unique opportunity. Located in the shadows of the magnificent Mogollon Rim, this sprawling camp is much more than a typical campground. While it is primarily known as a premier Boy Scouts of America facility, it also serves as a year-round destination for various groups, providing an array of amenities and a focus on educational, skill-building outdoor activities. Camp Geronimo Site 18 is one of many designated campsites within the nearly 200 acres of forest and meadows, offering a specific location for groups to set up their base camp for a memorable adventure.

The camp's setting is a major highlight. Nestled at an elevation of over 5,200 feet, it provides a welcome and significant escape from the intense heat of Arizona's desert cities. The environment is dominated by a lush Ponderosa pine forest, which is part of one of the world's largest such forests. The landscape features rolling hills, canyons, and two creeks that run through the property, including a natural water spring. This diverse terrain provides endless opportunities for exploration and a variety of habitats for local wildlife. The sense of history is palpable, as the camp is situated on the historic Spade Ranch homestead, which dates back over 140 years. This blend of rugged natural beauty and a storied past makes Camp Geronimo a truly special place.

Camp Geronimo is located north of Payson, Arizona, with a general address of Arizona 85541, USA. The more specific address is 2599 W. Weber Creek Rd, Payson, AZ 85541. To access the camp, you will take a road that leads off a main highway and into the forest. While the final roads are not always paved, they are generally passable for most vehicles. It is important for visitors, especially those from scout troops or other large groups, to check the specific directions and road conditions before heading out, as they can be affected by weather, particularly during the winter months. The remoteness of the location is part of its appeal, as it provides a true wilderness experience. However, the camp is well-known and relatively easy to find, with clear signage.

As a private, managed facility, Camp Geronimo is not a public, first-come, first-served campground. Reservations are required and are typically made far in advance, especially for the popular summer camp sessions. This managed approach ensures that the grounds are well-maintained, and it provides a level of safety and security that is highly valued by the groups who use the facility.

The services offered at Camp Geronimo go well beyond what a typical public campground provides, especially for groups.

• Campsites: Camp Geronimo features numerous designated campsites, each with a specific capacity. Site 18, for example, is noted to have a capacity of 20 people, making it a perfect size for a standard Scout troop or a small youth group. Campsites are equipped with durable canvas tents on platforms during the summer season.

• Restrooms and Showers: The camp boasts modern shower houses with heated water, a major convenience for campers. These facilities are new, clean, and often have designated handicap facilities.

• Year-Round Water Access: While the camp is "winterized" from October to May, meaning running water is not available in all sites, water hydrants are available to fill containers. Water is available year-round at key locations like the Headquarters and the Pool Bathhouse.

• Dining and Program Facilities: The camp has a dining hall that can seat up to 500 people with a full commercial kitchen, making it ideal for large groups and events. Other facilities include covered activity areas, large activity fields, and a new pool and pool house.

• Specialized Program Areas: The camp is equipped with a variety of specialized activity areas, including a rifle shooting range, archery range, and a horse corral, all of which are managed by qualified staff during the summer camp season.

The features and highlights of Camp Geronimo Site 18 and the broader camp environment are what make it a premier destination.

• Good for Kids: This is a primary feature. The camp is specifically designed for youth groups like the Scouts, with a wide variety of activities, programs, and facilities that are safe and engaging for children of all ages.

• Extensive Hiking and Activities: Camp Geronimo provides access to the National Arizona Recreational Trail and has eight private hiking trails on its property. This offers nearly endless miles of hiking for all skill levels.

• High Adventure Programs: The camp offers high-adventure programs for older Scouts, including caving, climbing, riding, and a 40-mile backpacking trek on the legendary Zane Grey's Highline Trail.

• Swimming Pool: A modern swimming pool with lifeguards (during summer camp) is a significant and welcome amenity, especially during the warm months.

• Year-Round Camping: While the summer is the main season, Camp Geronimo offers year-round camping opportunities, allowing groups to enjoy the beautiful scenery during the cooler seasons for weekend getaways and events.

Due to its nature as a private facility for youth groups, contact information is specific to the Grand Canyon Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Address: Arizona 85541, USA

For general inquiries, the Camp Geronimo Headquarters phone number during the summer season is (928) 474-4688. For year-round camping reservations and other information, the best point of contact is the Grand Canyon Council office. Their phone number is (602) 955-7747.

Given its specific function, choosing Camp Geronimo, and specifically a site like Site 18, is a decision made for a particular type of camping experience. It is well worth choosing for several reasons.

The well-maintained and structured environment is a major draw. For Scout leaders and other group organizers, the camp’s reputation for cleanliness, safety, and organization is a significant benefit. The availability of modern restrooms and showers is a major comfort, and the designated campsites with a set capacity make planning much easier. The camp's extensive program and activity offerings are unparalleled. The ability for kids to participate in everything from archery and rifle shooting to swimming and high-adventure treks all within a single location is incredibly valuable. The location itself is also a prime reason to choose Camp Geronimo. Situated at the base of the Mogollon Rim, it offers a scenic and invigorating environment that provides a true escape from the lower elevations. The access to miles of trails and a private, managed space ensures that groups can enjoy the outdoors safely and without the crowds often found at public campgrounds. While it may not be a public campground for individual families, for the groups it serves, Camp Geronimo offers a top-tier, all-inclusive outdoor experience that combines the best of traditional camping with the convenience and safety of a well-run facility.

Camp Geronimo Site 18

Arizona 85541, USA