Elks Picnic Group Campground

For Arizonans seeking a venue for a large get-together, whether it’s a family reunion, a church retreat, or a special celebration like an outdoor wedding, finding the right location can be a challenge. You need space, privacy, and the right atmosphere to make the event memorable. Elks Picnic Group Campground, located in the beautiful high country of Happy Jack, is a standout option that caters specifically to these needs. This isn't a typical public campground with individual sites; it’s a unique, private space designed for group gatherings. This article is your guide to understanding why this hidden gem is the perfect solution for your next big outdoor event.

Elks Picnic Group Campground is a private, five-acre site that is ideal for renting for private camping and events. The fact that it is fenced off provides a sense of security and containment, which is particularly nice for gatherings with children. As one reviewer noted, the grounds were "very clean," and the "beautiful trees" create a picturesque backdrop for any event. While one review mentioned a limited number of trees and not much shade, the private nature of the campground and the ability to organize your group as you see fit allows for a highly customizable experience. It’s a place that provides a blank canvas for your event, allowing you to set up your own space and activities.

The reviews also highlight the potential of this campground as a unique venue for special occasions, with one satisfied customer stating it was a "great place to have a wedding." This versatility is a key selling point. It’s a place that offers the beauty of the outdoors with the privacy and control needed for a significant event. While it may not be right for a small, secluded camping trip, its value for large groups is undeniable. The positive experiences of past visitors, who couldn't have "found a better place," speak volumes about its suitability for private functions.

Elks Picnic Group Campground is located in the beautiful high country near Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA. Its address places it in the Coconino National Forest, an area known for its stunning natural features, including the Mogollon Rim. This location provides a cool, forested escape from the Arizona heat, making it an ideal destination for a summer event. While some reviewers noted that the grounds are "hard to find" with "no signs," this contributes to its secluded and private feel. It's best to have clear directions beforehand to ensure a smooth arrival. The surrounding area offers a variety of recreational opportunities, from hiking to exploring the nearby community of Happy Jack.

The accessibility of this campground is centered on its function as a group site. While a review mentioned that it is a drive-in site, it is designed to accommodate a large number of vehicles, with space for up to 50 vehicles and 100 people. This makes it highly accessible for large groups coming from different parts of the state. The drive from major Arizona cities like Phoenix or Tucson is manageable, allowing for a great escape without a long, arduous journey.

Elks Picnic Group Campground provides a basic but essential set of services to support group gatherings. It is important to note that it is a primitive setting on six acres.

• Onsite Services: The site is well-equipped for group picnics and gatherings. Amenities include a pavilion, grills, picnic tables, and a large fire ring.
• Public Restrooms: The campground has two vault toilets. It's important to be aware that for groups exceeding 50 people, additional portable restrooms must be provided by the group.
• Tent Sites: While there are no individual designated sites, the five-acre grounds offer ample space for setting up numerous tents.
• On-site Parking: The site can accommodate up to 50 vehicles, providing plenty of parking space for even the largest gatherings.

It is crucial to be aware that there are no hookups for electricity, water, or sewer. This is a primitive camping experience, and groups should be prepared to be self-sufficient.

The highlights of Elks Picnic Group Campground are centered around its unique features that cater to groups and special events.

• Group-Oriented Design: The campground was specifically designed by the Winslow Elks Lodge to meet the needs of large groups, with a large, fenced area and facilities for communal activities.
• Picnic and Gathering Amenities: The site has a pavilion, grills, and picnic tables, making it perfect for group meals and gatherings.
• Space for Activities: The six acres provide plenty of room for recreational activities. The site includes a swing set, horseshoe pit, and poles for a volleyball net, catering to diverse group activities.
• Cleanliness and Beauty: Reviewers have praised the cleanliness of the grounds and the beautiful trees, which create a pleasant and attractive environment.
• Good for Kids: The fenced-off area and amenities like the swing set make it a safe and fun environment for children.
• Versatile Venue: The campground is an excellent choice for a variety of events, from family reunions to outdoor weddings.

These features make Elks Picnic Group Campground a highly functional and appealing choice for any large group looking for an outdoor venue.

For information and reservations for Elks Picnic Group Campground, you should contact the Mogollon Rim Ranger District.

Address: Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA
Contact Phone: (928) 477-2255

Given the private, reservable nature of the campground, it is essential to contact the Ranger District to check availability and make a booking, as this site is not for walk-ins.

So, what is worth choosing about Elks Picnic Group Campground? The main reason to choose this campground is its unparalleled suitability for large group events. If you're planning a family reunion, a scout group outing, or a company picnic, this place offers the space and privacy that individual campsites cannot. The ability to have the entire five acres to yourselves, as noted by a reviewer, is a significant advantage. The amenities provided, such as picnic tables, grills, and a large fire ring, are perfectly tailored to group gatherings.

While a reviewer mentioned the limited number of trees and shade, the sheer size of the site allows for flexible setup and the opportunity to create your own ideal camping arrangement. The fact that the campground is "very clean" and "fenced off" adds a layer of comfort and safety, especially when there are children present. For Arizonans looking to host a memorable outdoor event in the beautiful high country, Elks Picnic Group Campground offers the perfect combination of space, privacy, and natural beauty. Its unique focus on groups makes it a standout option in a state with many individual campsites.

Elks Picnic Group Campground

Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA