Camp Geronimo Site 19

For Scout troops, youth groups, and other large organizations in Arizona seeking a premier location for an outdoor adventure, the options can seem vast, yet few offer the dedicated facilities and experience of Camp Geronimo. Located in the picturesque Mogollon Rim country near Payson, this site is a cornerstone of outdoor education and recreation. While the larger Camp Geronimo property is a well-known institution, its specific sites, such as Site 19, offer a tailored experience that is particularly well-suited for groups. This specific site is designed to accommodate a large number of campers, providing the space and proximity to key amenities that are crucial for a successful group outing.

What sets Camp Geronimo Site 19 apart is its understanding of the unique needs of a large group of young campers. The site is a microcosm of the larger camp’s ethos, providing a safe, organized, and engaging environment. It's a place where young people can learn outdoor skills, foster teamwork, and build lasting memories. The natural setting, with its towering Ponderosa pines and cool mountain air, provides a refreshing contrast to the Arizona desert, making it an ideal summer retreat. Visitors, particularly those affiliated with Scouting, often speak of the incredible experiences had here, from the well-structured activities to the sense of community that the camp fosters.

The camp’s location within the Tonto National Forest allows for a genuine immersion in nature. The surrounding area is rich with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the unique geology of the Mogollon Rim. For groups, this means a wealth of activities are right at their fingertips. The layout of Site 19 is intentionally planned to be efficient and user-friendly, ensuring that a large number of campers can operate smoothly without feeling crowded. The fact that the site is "close to the Showers," as one reviewer noted, highlights a practical consideration that makes a big difference in a group camping setting, providing convenience and comfort for campers.

The reputation of Camp Geronimo is built on its commitment to providing a top-tier outdoor experience, and Site 19 is a perfect example of this. It’s a place that has been optimized for its specific purpose: to serve as a home base for large youth groups. The camp’s established programs, from merit badge classes to high adventure activities, are an added benefit for any group staying on the property. While this article focuses on Site 19 as a standalone camping location, it’s important to remember that by staying here, groups are also accessing the full, rich environment of one of Arizona’s most respected youth camps. It's more than just a place to sleep; it's a launching point for a transformative outdoor adventure.

In short, for any Scout leader, youth group coordinator, or family organizing a large gathering in Arizona, Camp Geronimo Site 19 offers a compelling and reliable solution. Its focus on accommodating large numbers, its proximity to essential amenities, and its location in a beautiful, forested environment make it a highly desirable destination. It provides the perfect balance of rustic charm and practical convenience, ensuring a positive and memorable experience for all who visit.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Geronimo Site 19 is situated near Payson, Arizona, within the expansive Tonto National Forest. The official address is Payson, AZ 85541, USA. The camp is located along the Mogollon Rim, a major escarpment that defines the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. This location provides a cooler, forested environment that is a popular escape for Arizonans during the hot summer months.

To access Camp Geronimo, visitors typically travel north from Phoenix on Arizona State Route 87 (Beeline Highway) toward Payson. From Payson, you will turn onto Forest Road 405 (Colcord Road) and follow the signs for Camp Geronimo. The road is well-maintained and accessible by most vehicles, though some parts may be unpaved. The on-site parking at Site 19 makes it easy for groups to bring multiple vehicles and organize their gear. The relatively straightforward drive from major metropolitan areas like Phoenix and Tucson makes it an accessible destination for a weekend or week-long trip, without the need for a high-clearance vehicle. This easy accessibility is a significant advantage for large groups traveling with a variety of vehicles and trailers.

Services Offered

• The site is designed to hold up to 50 scouts or other campers, making it an ideal choice for large groups.
• On-site parking is available, providing convenience and organization for multiple vehicles.
• The site is located close to the main camp's shower facilities, which is a major convenience for campers, as noted in a real customer review.
• While specific amenities like restrooms or fire pits for Site 19 are not detailed in the provided information, the broader Camp Geronimo property has a comprehensive set of facilities, and it is reasonable to expect that the main camp's amenities are accessible from this site.
• Being part of the Camp Geronimo property, campers at Site 19 have access to the numerous resources and programs offered by the Boy Scouts of America's Gila River Council.

Features / Highlights

• The primary highlight is the site's capacity and design, specifically catering to large groups like Scout troops, which can accommodate up to 50 campers.
• The location of the site provides a true Ponderosa pine forest experience, a beautiful and refreshing change of scenery from the lower desert areas of Arizona.
• Proximity to the main camp's amenities, including showers, is a significant feature that enhances the comfort of a group camping trip.
• The site is an integral part of the renowned Camp Geronimo property, providing access to a well-established and highly-regarded youth camping program, which includes merit badge classes, high adventure activities, and various other programs.
• The peaceful and safe environment, coupled with the organizational structure of the larger camp, makes it an excellent choice for youth leaders who need to manage a large number of campers.

Contact Information

For specific information and booking for Camp Geronimo Site 19, or for general inquiries about the property, it is best to contact the Boy Scouts of America, Grand Canyon Council. The camp does not have a public-facing direct phone number for reservations outside of its organizational structure.

Address: Payson, AZ 85541, USA (This is the general area of the camp)

For official contact, please use the main office number for the Gila River Council:

Phone: (602) 266-4444 (This is the main phone number for the Gila River Council, which operates the camp)

What is worth choosing

Camp Geronimo Site 19 is an excellent choice for Arizonans, particularly those involved in youth organizations, for its dedicated purpose and strategic location. The biggest benefit of this site is its specific design for large groups. Unlike a typical family campground where groups must try to reserve adjacent sites and can often feel scattered, Site 19 offers a single, large space where a group of up to 50 can camp together cohesively. This not only simplifies logistics but also strengthens the sense of community and teamwork, which are often the goals of such outings. The "Great camp site" and "AWESOME" reviews from real customers underscore this positive experience.

The accessibility is another key factor. Being located in Payson, a relatively short and easy drive from Phoenix and its surrounding suburbs, makes Camp Geronimo an ideal weekend destination. The roads leading to the site are well-maintained, meaning there's no need for a high-clearance vehicle, which is a huge benefit for group travel where a variety of vehicles are used. This easy access reduces travel stress and allows more time for the actual camping and activities.

Furthermore, the presence of essential amenities and the proximity to the main camp’s facilities are a major selling point. The fact that the site is "close to the Showers" is a practical detail that significantly improves the comfort and convenience of a camping trip, especially for a large group. This balance of rustic, natural setting with key modern comforts makes it a practical and appealing choice. While it's a place to disconnect and enjoy nature, it still provides the necessary infrastructure to make the trip comfortable and manageable for leaders and campers alike. For any group leader in Arizona looking for a reliable, well-equipped, and scenic location for their next outdoor adventure, Camp Geronimo Site 19 is a top-tier option that promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Camp Geronimo Site 19

Payson, AZ 85541, USA