Camp Geronimo Site 2

For residents of Arizona looking to escape the heat and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the state, finding the perfect camping destination is key. Located just north of Payson, tucked away beneath the majestic Mogollon Rim, Camp Geronimo Site 2 offers a stunning and well-equipped outdoor experience that is more than just a place to pitch a tent. It's a destination for adventure, skill-building, and creating lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a family seeking a weekend retreat, or a group looking for a facility to host your next event, Camp Geronimo provides a unique and engaging environment surrounded by the serene ponderosa pine forest.

This extensive campground, operated by the Grand Canyon Council of the Boy Scouts of America, is a renowned location not only for its summer camp programs but also for year-round camping opportunities. It combines the rugged charm of Arizona's high country with comfortable and modern facilities, making it a popular choice for visitors from across the state and beyond. The camp's location at an elevation of over 5,200 feet offers a refreshing change of pace and temperature from the lower desert regions, providing a welcome respite during the warmer months.

From its historic roots as the Spade Ranch homestead to its present-day role as a hub for outdoor education and adventure, Camp Geronimo is a place with a rich heritage. The camp is not just for Scouting groups; it is available for public rentals, making its incredible landscape and amenities accessible to everyone. This article will provide a detailed overview of what makes Camp Geronimo Site 2 a standout choice for your next Arizona adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Geronimo Site 2 is situated at 2599 W Webber Creek Rd, Payson, AZ 85541, USA. Its location is a major part of its appeal, offering a convenient yet secluded forest escape. The camp is easily accessible from the Phoenix metropolitan area, with a scenic drive of approximately two and a half hours, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. The camp is nestled within a vast expanse of ponderosa pine forest, providing a sense of genuine wilderness while still being relatively close to modern conveniences in Payson.

The camp's proximity to major highways allows for a straightforward journey. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the cool mountain air and the towering Mogollon Rim, which serves as a spectacular backdrop. The property itself is extensive, covering nearly 500 acres of forest and meadows, with trails leading from the camp to the very edge of the Colorado Plateau. This connectivity to the surrounding wilderness provides endless opportunities for exploration and hiking right from your campsite. The camp has also made efforts to be accessible, with some facilities and at least one campsite specifically designed to accommodate participants with mobility issues.

Services Offered

Camp Geronimo Site 2 provides a wide range of services and facilities, catering to both individual campers and large groups. The services are designed to enhance the outdoor experience while providing a level of comfort and convenience.

• Year-Round Camping: While famous for its summer programs, the camp is a year-round facility, offering opportunities for camping, retreats, and events throughout the seasons.
• Dining Hall: A large dining hall with seating for up to 500 people is available, featuring a full commercial kitchen. This is a significant amenity for larger groups and events.
• Modern Shower Houses: The camp is equipped with modern, new shower facilities with heated water, a crucial comfort after a long day of outdoor activities.
• Cabins and Lodges: In addition to traditional campsites with wall tents and platforms, the camp offers various cabins and a lodge for rent, some with kitchenettes, providing options for different camping styles.
• Program Areas: The camp hosts a variety of specialized program areas, including a rifle shooting range, archery range, and a horse corral, which are utilized for structured programs and can be part of rental agreements.
• Health Lodge: A first-aid facility is on-site to address any health and safety needs that may arise during a visit.

Features and Highlights

The unique features and highlights of Camp Geronimo Site 2 are what set it apart as a premier outdoor destination.

• The Mogollon Rim Setting: The camp's location beneath the Mogollon Rim provides a breathtaking backdrop and a cooler climate, a significant draw for Arizonans during the hot summer months. The views are unparalleled and the air is crisp and clean.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: With 8 private hiking trails and convenient access to the National Arizona Recreational Trail, the camp is a hiker's paradise. The trails offer scenic views and a chance to explore the expansive ponderosa pine forest.
• Aquatic Facilities: The camp features a large swimming pool with attached showers and changing rooms, perfect for cooling off and enjoying some aquatic fun. There are also two creeks that run through the camp and a natural water spring for swimming.
• Program Variety: For groups and individuals participating in official programs, the camp offers an incredible array of activities from climbing and caving to horseback riding and mountain biking.
• Amphitheater: An amphitheater with seating for 800 people, complete with a sound system and lighting, makes it an excellent venue for large gatherings and presentations, from campfires to ceremonies.
• Historic Spade Ranch Homestead: The camp is located on the historic Spade Ranch, which dates back over 140 years, adding a layer of history and character to the outdoor experience.

Contact Information

For those interested in visiting or making reservations at Camp Geronimo Site 2, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 2599 W Webber Creek Rd, Payson, AZ 85541, USA

Phone:
Camp Geronimo Headquarters: 928-474-4688 (Summer only)
Grand Canyon Council Office (for reservations): 602-955-7747

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Camp Geronimo Site 2 is choosing an all-encompassing outdoor experience that goes far beyond simple camping. The sheer scale and variety of what the site offers make it a compelling choice for any Arizonan seeking a quality retreat. The location itself, nestled at a higher elevation, is a primary reason to visit, providing a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere even in the summer. It's the perfect antidote to the oppressive heat of the low desert.

The blend of rugged natural beauty with thoughtfully designed facilities is a key differentiator. You can enjoy the rustic charm of a campfire under the stars and then wake up to the convenience of a hot shower. The extensive list of amenities, from the dining hall and amphitheater to the dedicated program areas, makes this a truly versatile location capable of accommodating a wide range of needs, from a simple family outing to a large-scale event.

Furthermore, the rich heritage of the camp and its connection to the surrounding wilderness provide a deeper, more meaningful experience. The presence of private trails and access to larger recreational areas means you can truly get lost in nature without having to travel far from your base camp. Whether you are seeking a place to disconnect and find peace in the quiet of the forest or a venue for a fun-filled, activity-packed adventure, Camp Geronimo Site 2 delivers on all fronts. It’s a place where the grandeur of the Mogollon Rim meets the comfort of well-maintained facilities, creating an ideal setting for anyone in Arizona to explore, relax, and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Camp Geronimo Site 2

2599 W Webber Creek Rd, Payson, AZ 85541, USA