Colcord Ridge Campground

For Arizonans looking to experience the diverse beauty of the state's high country, Colcord Ridge Campground offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in any season. Located near Forest Lakes Estates, this campground provides a peaceful and well-maintained base camp for exploring the majestic Mogollon Rim region. Whether you're seeking a serene summer getaway or a magical winter adventure, Colcord Ridge is a welcoming and well-equipped destination. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery, from the rugged mountain views to the quiet solitude of a snow-covered forest, all without sacrificing key amenities.

The campground is known for its ability to provide a great camping experience even in the off-season. As one visitor noted, even when covered in two feet of snow, the restrooms were open, clean, and well-stocked, which is a rare and much-appreciated convenience for winter campers. The presence of metal fire pits allows for campfires, adding to the authentic and cozy camping experience, while the availability of picnic tables ensures a comfortable space for meals and gathering. The thoughtful layout, with bathrooms located a decent distance from campsites, provides a good balance of accessibility and privacy. Colcord Ridge Campground is a place that feels welcoming and well-cared for, making it a great choice for both seasoned campers and families with kids.

Colcord Ridge Campground is conveniently situated on the Young Highway, near Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA. Its location places it in the heart of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, a prime area for outdoor recreation in Arizona. The campground’s accessibility is a key feature, as it's not far from two of the area's most popular attractions: Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake. This makes it an ideal central point for those who want to spend their days fishing, boating, or simply exploring the beautiful lakes. The campground offers on-site parking and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that it is a viable option for a wide range of visitors. The journey to the campground is a scenic one, as you ascend to the cooler elevations of the Mogollon Rim, providing a sense of escape from the everyday.

The beauty of the location is undeniable. Colcord Ridge offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountain areas, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping trip. The fresh air and peaceful environment are a welcome change from the city. Even during the winter, when the landscape is transformed by snow, the views are spectacular and a testament to Arizona's diverse climates. The area is a perfect starting point for hiking adventures, with trails leading into the vast forest. The campground itself is set within a lovely woodland, providing a natural and immersive feel. It's a place where you can enjoy a sense of seclusion and serenity while still being a short drive from other popular attractions.

Services Offered:

• Tent sites: Colcord Ridge is a tent-only campground, with well-defined sites for setting up.
• Picnic areas: Picnic tables are available at each site and in the designated picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors.
• Public restrooms: Clean and stocked public restrooms are available, even during the off-season.
• Running water: Running water is provided on-site for visitor use.
• On-site parking: Convenient on-site parking is available for campers.

Features and Highlights:

• Metal fire pits: Each site is equipped with a metal fire pit, perfect for a cozy campfire.
• Beautiful scenery: The campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forest.
• Proximity to lakes: Colcord Ridge is a short distance from Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.
• Dogs allowed: Your pets are welcome at the campground, so you can bring your whole family along.
• Hiking: The area provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.
• Year-round accessibility: The camp's restrooms are kept open and clean even in the winter, making it a great off-season option.
• Kid-friendly: The campground is good for kids, with an easy-going atmosphere and plenty of space for them to play.

Contact Information:

Colcord Ridge Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding reservations and seasonal openings, it is best to call the Lakeside Ranger District directly.

Phone: (928) 462-4300

Address: Young Hwy, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA

What is worth choosing:

For any Arizonan looking for a reliable and scenic camping spot, Colcord Ridge Campground is an excellent choice for a number of compelling reasons. Its location is a major factor; being just a short drive from the Phoenix area yet high enough in elevation to provide a genuine escape from the heat, it’s a perfect retreat. The proximity to two of the region's most popular lakes, Willow Springs and Woods Canyon, provides endless recreational opportunities right at your fingertips. This convenience allows you to plan a day of fishing and boating and then return to the peaceful, natural setting of your campsite for the evening. The ability to bring dogs along also makes it a great choice for the entire family, ensuring no one gets left behind.

Another key advantage is the consistent quality of the facilities. The availability of clean, open restrooms, even when the campground is blanketed in snow, speaks volumes about the level of maintenance and care. This makes it a reliable choice for a comfortable camping trip, whether you're visiting in the peak of summer or for a unique winter getaway. The metal fire pits are a simple but crucial amenity that makes a huge difference in the overall camping experience, allowing for a warm fire to gather around and create lasting memories. The combination of beautiful, natural scenery with these essential conveniences makes Colcord Ridge a standout option.

In short, Colcord Ridge Campground is worth choosing for its perfect blend of natural beauty, strategic location, and reliable amenities. It’s a place that welcomes campers in all seasons and provides a peaceful, dog-friendly environment that is great for families. It offers the classic camping experience of being in the woods and around a fire, while still being close to some of the best outdoor activities that Arizona’s high country has to offer. For a peaceful and well-equipped retreat, you can't go wrong with Colcord Ridge.

Colcord Ridge Campground

Young Hwy, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA