Geronimo Camp Site 20

For Arizonans seeking a quintessential high-country camping experience, Geronimo Camp Site 20 offers a classic and serene retreat. Part of the well-known and historic Camp Geronimo, this site is situated in the breathtaking beauty of the Mogollon Rim in Gila County. While Camp Geronimo has a long and proud tradition as a scouting facility, it is also available for year-round reservations by various groups and individuals. Site 20 provides a secluded and peaceful spot for your group, allowing you to escape the desert heat and immerse yourselves in the cool, refreshing air of the Ponderosa pine forest. It is an ideal destination for family reunions, scout troops, or a group of friends looking to unplug and reconnect with nature and each other.

The atmosphere at Geronimo Camp is defined by its deep roots in outdoor tradition and its stunning natural surroundings. At an elevation of over 5,200 feet, the climate is wonderfully mild, especially during the summer, providing a welcome escape from the scorching temperatures of the lower desert. The camp and its individual sites, including Site 20, are a testament to the simplicity and beauty of traditional camping. A review from a customer highlights the rich history, calling it a "summer camp tradition for 65 years!" which speaks to the legacy and love people have for this place. While a recent change in ownership was noted in a review, the camp continues to operate, upholding its mission to provide a great place for Scouts and other groups to engage in outdoor activities, work on skills, and enjoy the pristine natural environment. It's a place where you can leave behind the distractions of the city and find a sense of peace and calm.

As a part of the larger Camp Geronimo facility, Site 20 offers a unique blend of rustic camping with access to modern amenities. A review mentions the availability of showers and a dining hall, which are significant conveniences for campers. The lack of cell service in some areas, as noted by a reviewer, can be seen as a benefit, encouraging a true digital detox, although a signal can still be found. The camp's location at the base of the Mogollon Rim provides a spectacular backdrop for all activities. It’s a place where generations have enjoyed earning merit badges, hiking scenic trails, and enjoying the camaraderie of camp life. This blend of primitive and modern facilities makes it a great choice for groups who want the feel of a rugged adventure without sacrificing some key comforts.

Overall, Geronimo Camp Site 20 is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a destination that offers a profound connection to Arizona's natural beauty and a tradition of outdoor adventure. It is a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a serene environment, a traditional camping experience, and the opportunity for a high-country escape in a well-supported location. The combination of its legacy, its peaceful setting, and its convenient amenities makes it a truly special place for a local getaway.

Geronimo Camp Site 20 is located in Gila County, AZ, with an address of Payson, AZ 85541, USA. The camp is situated approximately 20 miles north of Payson, a well-known gateway to Arizona's high country. For those driving from the Phoenix metropolitan area, the journey typically takes around two to two and a half hours, making it an excellent option for a weekend trip. The primary route involves taking State Highway 87 north through Payson, then turning onto the unpaved but generally well-maintained Control Road at highway marker 265. You'll continue on the Control Road for about six miles before turning left onto Webber Creek Road for the final two miles into the camp property.

The accessibility of the location is a significant benefit. Despite its secluded feel, it is relatively easy to reach by car, which is a major convenience for groups carrying gear. On-site parking is available at or near the campsite, providing easy access for unloading and setting up camp. It's important for visitors to check road and weather conditions before their trip, as the camp is "winterized" from October to May, which can affect road access and the availability of running water. The elevation of over 5,200 feet ensures a cooler climate, providing a welcome change from the state’s hotter regions. The convenient proximity to Payson means that any last-minute supplies or emergencies are easily handled. The location provides the perfect balance of feeling remote while still being a manageable distance from home.

Services Offered

• Campsite Reservations: Geronimo Camp operates on a reservation basis, allowing groups to secure their spot, including Site 20, in advance. This is particularly useful for planning group events and ensures a dedicated space upon arrival.

• Running Water: While Site 20 is a primitive site, running water is available at the broader camp facility during the non-winterized season (typically May to October), which is a key convenience for cooking and cleaning. During the winterized season, water hydrants are available to fill up containers.

• Showers and Restrooms: Guests can access modern, heated shower houses and restrooms located within the larger Camp Geronimo facility, providing a higher level of comfort for campers.

• Dining Hall: A large dining hall is available, which is particularly useful for groups who may not want to cook every meal at their campsite.

• On-site Parking: Campers can park their vehicles at or near their site, providing easy access for unloading and loading gear.

Features / Highlights

• High-Elevation Climate: The campground's location at over 5,200 feet provides a much-needed escape from the Arizona heat, with cooler temperatures and fresh, crisp air.

• Stunning Natural Scenery: Nestled at the base of the Mogollon Rim, the site is surrounded by a beautiful Ponderosa pine forest, offering incredible views and a serene atmosphere.

• Ideal for Groups: As a designated group campsite, it is perfect for scout troops, family reunions, or other large gatherings, ensuring a private and cohesive experience.

• Hiking Opportunities: The camp offers access to a variety of private hiking trails and is located near the National Arizona Recreational Trail, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

• Traditional Scout Camp Experience: The camp has a long history as a scouting facility, providing a well-organized and activity-rich environment for youth and adults alike, including opportunities to work on merit badges.

• Lakes and Water Activities: A review mentions a lake, providing opportunities for water-based recreation, which is a unique and valuable feature for a high-country campground.

Contact Information

Address: Payson, AZ 85541, USA

What is worth choosing Geronimo Camp Site 20?

Choosing Geronimo Camp Site 20 is an excellent decision for anyone in Arizona seeking a classic outdoor experience with a strong sense of tradition and community. The most compelling reason to choose this campground is its ideal blend of a secluded, rustic campsite with the convenience of a larger, well-equipped facility. The site's location within the historic Camp Geronimo means your group will be part of a long-standing tradition of outdoor adventure, and you'll benefit from the camp's well-maintained grounds and amenities like showers, restrooms, and a dining hall.

The location itself is a major selling point. For locals, the high-elevation escape from the oppressive summer heat is a significant advantage. The stunning beauty of the Ponderosa pines and the majestic backdrop of the Mogollon Rim create a truly magical setting for your trip. The opportunities for hiking and other outdoor activities, including a lake for water recreation, are endless, providing plenty of ways to stay active and explore the gorgeous landscape. While the reviews mention the camp's history and a recent change, the core mission of providing a great place for outdoor education and recreation remains, which is a testament to its enduring quality.

The convenience of a reservation system and the availability of essential amenities make the trip comfortable and manageable. It's a place where you can truly relax and enjoy the company of your group without worrying about the logistics of a more remote, undeveloped site. For all these reasons—the group-friendly nature, the breathtaking scenery, the comfortable climate, and the balance between rustic and convenient camping—Geronimo Camp Site 20 is an excellent choice for a memorable and rejuvenating outdoor adventure. It's a place where you can create new traditions while honoring the legacy of those who have camped there for decades.

Geronimo Camp Site 20

Payson, AZ 85541, USA