Cave Creek Group Campground

For large groups, families, and organizations in Arizona seeking a dedicated space for an outdoor event or a weekend away, the Cave Creek Group Campground offers a solution that is both serene and well-suited to their needs. Unlike standard campgrounds with individual sites, this location is specifically designed to accommodate larger gatherings, providing a private and spacious area for everyone to come together. Nestled within the spectacular Tonto National Forest, this campground provides a peaceful and secluded environment, allowing your group to enjoy the beauty of the Sonoran Desert without the interruptions of a typical public park. Its historic origins, having been constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), lend it a timeless, rustic charm that adds to the overall experience. Whether you're planning a family reunion, a scout trip, or a corporate retreat, this group campground is an excellent choice for a memorable and hassle-free gathering.

The Cave Creek Group Campground is a unique gem, located near the town of Cave Creek, Arizona, within the Tonto National Forest. Its address is best described by its location relative to local landmarks, and for the most accurate directions, it's best to follow the Forest Service's instructions. From the town of Carefree, you take Cave Creek Road (Forest Road 24) north for approximately 19 miles. The final 9 miles of the journey are on an all-weather gravel road that is narrow and has blind curves, requiring careful driving. This is an important detail for groups, especially if they are bringing multiple vehicles. This unpaved road is part of the experience and helps maintain the campground's secluded and low-traffic environment. The site is a short drive from the blistering heat of the Phoenix metropolitan area, offering a welcome reprieve with temperatures that are often 10 degrees cooler. The campground features on-site parking for multiple vehicles, and its layout is designed to be easily accessible for a group setting. It's crucial to note that trailers over 16 feet are not recommended due to the narrow and winding nature of the road. Access to the campground is controlled by a reservation system, which ensures the site is exclusively for your group's use for the duration of your stay.

As a dedicated group campground, Cave Creek offers a specific set of services designed to facilitate large gatherings. The amenities focus on providing the essential comforts and facilities needed to host a successful event while maintaining a natural and rustic feel. It's a place where you can enjoy the outdoors with a little more convenience than dispersed camping but without the fuss of a full-service resort. The services available at the campground are as follows:

• Public Restrooms: The site is equipped with vault toilets, which are a necessary convenience for a large group.
• Running Water: While there is running water available at the site, it is not potable, meaning it is not suitable for drinking. Guests must bring their own drinking water.
• Group Picnic and Camp Areas: The campground is a large, open area with a central gathering space. It features 12 picnic tables, three central grills, a covered food prep area, and a large campfire area.
• Basic Site Amenities: The site has grills and picnic tables, which are perfect for group meals and gatherings. There are also two large covered ramadas that offer a welcome break from the sun.
• On-site Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for the group's vehicles, making it easy to unload gear and set up camp.
• Trash Service: Trash service is provided at the site, which is a major convenience for large groups.

What truly makes the Cave Creek Group Campground special are the unique features and highlights that are tailored for a group experience. Its setting and amenities create an environment that is both functional for an event and beautiful for a memorable outdoor adventure. The natural features and recreational opportunities are what draw people to this specific location for their gatherings. Here are some of the key highlights of the campground:

• Dedicated Group Space: The campground is a single, large site that can accommodate up to 150 people. This exclusivity ensures privacy and allows your group to enjoy the space without being disturbed by other campers.
• Peaceful Environment: The site is nestled in a narrow valley with juniper and sycamore trees that provide plentiful shade. This, combined with its remote location, creates a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
• Recreational Activities: There is a game area for volleyball and horseshoes, providing entertainment for the group. The nearby Cave Creek Trailhead offers access to over 48 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, including kid-friendly options.
• Creek Access: A clear running creek flows through the area, which adds to the ambiance and provides a spot for exploration.
• Historical and Natural Features: The campground’s CCC origins and its location within a beautiful natural area with abundant wildlife and desert wildflowers make it a place with both historical and ecological significance.
• Kid and Pet-Friendly: The campground is great for kids, with plenty of space to run around and explore. Dogs are allowed, as long as they are on a leash, making it a great option for a family or group outing where pets are welcome.

For reservations and inquiries about the Cave Creek Group Campground, it is important to contact the proper authority, which is the Tonto National Forest, as this is not a private business. The campground requires reservations and can be booked in advance to ensure availability for your group. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is best to contact the managing ranger district. The information below provides the most reliable way to get in touch with the Forest Service. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance and can be booked up to 12 months in advance through the Recreation.gov website or by contacting the ranger station directly for group camping. It is also wise to check with the ranger station about road conditions and any fire restrictions before your trip.

Address: 32nd street, carefree highway, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA (Note: This is a general location. Please use specific directions from the Cave Creek Ranger District.)

Phone: (480) 595-3300 (Cave Creek Ranger Station)

What makes the Cave Creek Group Campground worth choosing for your next event? Its primary benefit is its exclusivity and capacity. Having a dedicated site for a large group is a rare find and provides a level of privacy and comfort that is hard to match. The beautiful, shaded natural setting and the availability of amenities like picnic tables, grills, and a campfire area make it easy to plan and execute a successful event. The opportunity for activities like hiking and games ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy. While the journey to the campground can be a bit rugged, the reward is a peaceful and secluded spot that feels a world away from the city. For anyone in Arizona planning a large family gathering, a club event, or a simple get-together with a group of friends who want to experience the beauty of the Tonto National Forest, this campground is an outstanding and highly recommended option. It provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories in a beautiful and well-equipped outdoor setting.

Cave Creek Group Campground

32nd street, carefree highway, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA