Cave Creek Group Campground

For Arizonans seeking a distinctive and private location for a group getaway, the Cave Creek Group Campground offers an ideal solution. This isn't a typical public campground with individual sites, but rather a single, large reservation-only space designed for group gatherings. Situated in the serene environment of the Tonto National Forest, it provides a peaceful and secluded retreat from the everyday hustle and bustle. The site’s defining characteristic is its unique blend of a primitive, natural setting with essential amenities that cater specifically to groups. This makes it a perfect venue for everything from family reunions and scout troop outings to a simple weekend camping trip with a large group of friends. The tranquility and sense of having the place to yourselves are the main draws, allowing your group to create lasting memories in a beautiful, natural setting without the interruptions of other campers.

The Cave Creek Group Campground is 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 it is a common point of confusion for those unfamiliar with the area. It’s important for visitors to know that the site is separate from the main Cave Creek Regional Park and is a different entity. To access the campground, you must travel on a long, unpaved road that adds to the feeling of a remote escape. This road can be a bit bumpy and is not recommended for trailers over 16 feet. This rugged journey ensures that the campground remains a true hidden gem, visited only by those who are prepared for the adventure. Despite its primitive feel, the campground is accessible to vehicles and offers convenient on-site parking. Its secluded location also provides a welcome temperature drop compared to the hotter Phoenix Valley, making it particularly inviting during the warmer months. The campground operates on a reservation-only basis, ensuring that once you are there, the space is exclusively for your group's use. Reservations can be made through the Recreation.gov website or by contacting the managing ranger district.

The Cave Creek Group Campground offers a specific set of services designed to support a group camping experience. While it is a primitive site with no electricity, it provides crucial amenities that make a large gathering both functional and comfortable. These services are the foundation for a successful group trip, providing the necessities while allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the natural environment. The services offered include:

• Public Restrooms: The site is equipped with clean vault toilets, which are an essential amenity for any large group spending time outdoors.
• Running Water: It is important to note that while there is running water available, it is not potable. Visitors must bring their own drinking water.
• Barbecue Grills: The site includes large barbecue grills and a covered food preparation area, making it easy to cook for a large group.
• Picnic Tables: There are plenty of picnic tables available for group meals and gathering.
• Tent Sites: The large, open space is designed for tent camping, with ample room for multiple tents.
• On-site Parking: Ample on-site parking is available for the group's vehicles, ensuring easy access to the camp area.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Campground offers a number of features and highlights that are tailored for a group camping experience. These unique attributes, combined with the natural surroundings, are what make it a memorable and desirable destination. It is a place where functionality meets beauty, providing the perfect backdrop for your group's adventure. Here are some of the key features of the campground:

• Dedicated Group Space: This is a major highlight. As a single, private group site, it offers a level of exclusivity and freedom that is hard to find at other public campgrounds.
• Atmosphere: The site is located in a narrow valley with juniper and sycamore trees that provide abundant shade. It has a peaceful, secluded atmosphere that allows you to feel truly connected to nature.
• Group-Friendly Amenities: The presence of large barbecue grills, a covered pavilion, and numerous picnic tables makes it well-equipped for hosting large group meals and social activities.
• Outdoor Activities: The campground is a great base for outdoor fun. It has a dedicated game area for volleyball and horseshoes. It is also a launch point for various hiking trails, including the Cave Creek Trailhead, with options that are great for kids.
• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are allowed at the campground, which means your four-legged friends can be part of the group's outdoor fun.
• Primitive, but with Amenities: The site strikes a unique balance. While there is no electricity or cell signal, the presence of clean vault toilets, running water (non-potable), and a large campfire area makes for a comfortable primitive camping experience.

For reservations and inquiries about the Cave Creek Group Campground, it is important to contact the proper authority, which is the Tonto National Forest. The campground is managed by the Cave Creek Ranger District. Since it is a reservation-only site, you must book your stay in advance to ensure availability. The provided phone numbers can be used to get information from the ranger district, which is the most reliable source for updates on road conditions, fire restrictions, and other important alerts. Reservations can be made through the Recreation.gov website. It is wise to have a conversation with the ranger district staff to confirm details, as some public data can be misleading. Always double-check information regarding amenities and accessibility, as conditions in the forest can change.

Address: Cave Creek Group Campground, 32nd street, carefree highway, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, USA

Phone: (623) 465-0431

Mobile Phone: +1 623-465-0431

What makes the Cave Creek Group Campground a worthwhile choice for your next outing? Its primary appeal is its unique functionality as a dedicated group site. This means your large family or group of friends can have a private space to connect and enjoy the outdoors without having to worry about other campers. The site's remoteness, a result of the unpaved road, is a bonus for those seeking a true escape from city life. Visitors consistently praise the peaceful, gorgeous setting and the presence of essential amenities like clean vaulted toilets, picnic tables, and grills. The lack of electricity and cell service is also seen as a positive for those who want to truly "unplug." While you must be prepared to bring your own water, toilet paper, and trash bags, this is a small trade-off for the experience you receive. It’s a perfect spot for those who appreciate primitive camping but still want the convenience of a prepared site. For anyone in Arizona looking to host a memorable group event in a beautiful, secluded, and well-equipped outdoor setting, the Cave Creek Group Campground is a top choice that promises an authentic and rewarding experience for everyone involved.

Cave Creek Group Campground

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