Camp Geronimo Site 22

Nestled at the foot of the magnificent Mogollon Rim, Camp Geronimo is a renowned high-country facility that offers a unique and memorable camping experience. While it is best known as a premier Scout camp, with a rich history and extensive programs for youth, it is also a fantastic destination for other groups and families looking to experience the natural beauty of Arizona. The camp is set on nearly 200 acres of lush forest and meadows, surrounded by over 5,000 acres of the Tonto National Forest. This setting provides a perfect escape from the Arizona heat, with a climate that is significantly cooler than the desert valleys below.

Camp Geronimo is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a hub for outdoor adventure and education. The camp offers a wide range of activities, from high-adventure programs to skill-building workshops, making it an ideal destination for groups of all ages and interests. The ambiance is one of exploration and community, with designated sites that provide both a sense of privacy and easy access to the camp's many facilities. While the specific site "Site 22" may be a part of the larger camp, it represents a dedicated space where groups can gather and embark on their own tailored adventure within this expansive natural playground. The serene environment, with towering ponderosa pines and the crisp, clean mountain air, creates a setting that is both invigorating and peaceful.

The camp operates year-round, offering different experiences depending on the season. From the full-program summer months to the more rustic, winterized camping, there’s an adventure to be had for everyone. For Arizona locals, it represents a cherished institution and a top-tier choice for a high-quality outdoor experience that is both fun and formative.

Camp Geronimo is located at 871 Dakota Dr, Payson, AZ 85541, USA. Its address is a general location for the large facility, but access requires a specific set of directions. Located approximately 20 miles north of Payson, the camp's access road is a well-known turn-off from State Highway 87. From Payson, you will continue on Highway 87 for about 12 miles until you reach the Control Road turn-off, marked by highway marker 265. You will then turn right and continue for about six miles on this dirt road, then turn left onto Webber Creek Road, following it for about two miles into the camp. It is a roughly two to two-and-a-half-hour drive from central Phoenix, making it a very accessible weekend getaway for many Arizonans.

While the final leg of the journey is on dirt roads, they are generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles. It is always a good idea to check the weather and road conditions before your trip, as heavy rain or snow can affect accessibility. The high-elevation location ensures a cool climate, making it an ideal summer escape. This accessibility, combined with the feeling of being completely immersed in a remote forest, is a significant part of Camp Geronimo's appeal.

Services Offered

• Running Water & Restrooms: During the main season (generally May 15 - October 15), the camp has running water and modern shower houses. In the winterized season, water hydrants are available to fill containers, but running water is not available at individual sites. Restrooms are available on-site.
• Dining Hall & Kitchen: The camp has a large dining hall with a commercial kitchen that can be utilized for events and large groups. This is a major convenience for retreats and other gatherings.
• Dedicated Campsites: The camp has numerous designated campsites, each with its own character. Site 22, along with others like Seneca, Kickapoo, and Apache, provides a specific space for groups to set up their tents and camp.
• Year-Round Facilities: Camp Geronimo is a year-round facility, offering various camping and cabin options for different seasons. It is a flexible option for an outing any time of the year.
• Youth-Oriented Programs: While a specific site, Camp Geronimo as a whole is a hub for youth-focused programs, including merit badges, high adventure trips, and leadership training.

Features / Highlights

• Proximity to the Mogollon Rim: The camp is located at the base of the Mogollon Rim, with trails leading directly from the camp to the top. This provides incredible hiking opportunities and stunning scenic views of the Colorado Plateau.
• Abundant Activities: As a Scouts BSA camp, Camp Geronimo has extensive facilities for a wide range of activities, including shooting ranges (rifle, shotgun, archery), a pool, climbing walls, a horse corral, and a vast network of hiking trails.
• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by over 5,000 acres of ponderosa pine forest, the camp offers a picturesque setting with beautiful meadows, two running creeks (Webber Creek and East Webber Creek), and a natural water spring for swimming.
• High-Adventure Programs: For older youth and adults, the camp offers high-thrill challenges through its Spade Ranch Adventure program, which includes caving, climbing, canyoneering, and mountain biking.
• Community-Focused Environment: The camp's design and purpose as a youth camp foster a strong sense of community and shared experience, making it an ideal place for groups to bond and grow together.

Contact Information

Address: 871 Dakota Dr, Payson, AZ 85541, USA

While the address is for the camp's general location, it is best to use the directions provided on the official Camp Geronimo website. For inquiries about reservations and specific facilities, you can contact the Grand Canyon Council, which operates the camp. Their phone number can be found on their website.

What is worth choosing

Camp Geronimo Site 22, and the larger camp as a whole, is worth choosing for Arizonans who want a structured, safe, and activity-rich outdoor experience. While it is primarily a Scouting camp, its extensive facilities and beautiful location make it an ideal choice for any group seeking a memorable mountain retreat. The camp's unique position at the base of the Mogollon Rim provides unparalleled access to some of Arizona's most iconic landscapes and trails, all while offering the convenience of modern amenities.

The focus on youth development and outdoor education sets it apart from more traditional campgrounds. It’s a place where children and adults can learn new skills, challenge themselves with high-adventure activities, and create lifelong memories. The year-round availability adds to its value, allowing for different types of experiences in both the warmer and cooler months. The sense of history and tradition that comes with a camp that has been in operation for decades adds a special layer of meaning to the stay. For a camping trip that combines stunning natural beauty, a wide array of activities, and a focus on growth and community, Camp Geronimo is the premier choice for locals.

Camp Geronimo Site 22

871 Dakota Dr, Payson, AZ 85541, USA