Grapevine Group Site - Cormorant Loop

For Arizonans looking to host a large family reunion, a scout troop campout, or any group event, Grapevine Group Site at the Cormorant Loop offers an expansive and accommodating solution. Nestled in the Sonoran Desert on the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake, this is not your typical individual campsite. It is a specialized group campground designed to bring people together, providing a beautiful and functional space for memorable gatherings. The sheer size of the loops, including the Cormorant Loop, is a major draw, with each designed to accommodate a large number of people with plenty of room to spread out. The campground's location provides stunning views of the blue water and the surrounding Sierra Ancha mountains, creating a picturesque backdrop for any event. Public data and visitor reviews consistently highlight the site's unique setting and expansive facilities, making it a perfect spot for everything from fishing tournaments to weddings. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide to Grapevine Group Site - Cormorant Loop, exploring its exceptional location and accessibility, the services and amenities it provides, its standout features, and what makes it a premier choice for your next group event in the heart of Arizona.

Grapevine Group Site is located in Gila County, AZ, within the Tonto National Forest, placing it at an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet. The site's specific address is often listed for the Tonto Basin Ranger Station, which is 28079 N. AZ Hwy 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545, but the campground itself is just a short drive from there. Access to the campground is straightforward, with paved roads all the way to the site, which is a major convenience for vehicles of all sizes, especially those towing trailers or large RVs. From Phoenix or Mesa, the drive takes you north on State Hwy 87 / Beeline Highway before connecting with State Hwy 188. From there, it's a scenic journey along the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake until you reach the turnoff for Forest Road 84, which leads directly to the site. The on-site parking is a key feature of the group sites, with each loop offering space for up to 30-40 vehicles. This makes it incredibly easy for a large number of guests to arrive and park together, eliminating the logistical headaches often associated with group gatherings. The campground's location not only provides practical accessibility but also offers a beautiful transition from the rugged desert terrain to the serene lakeside setting, making the journey part of the experience.

Grapevine Group Site is well-equipped with amenities that are specifically designed to handle the needs of large groups. While the facilities may vary slightly over time, the core services are focused on ensuring a comfortable and functional stay for everyone. Here are some of the key services you can expect at the site:

• On-site Parking: A major convenience of this group campground is the extensive on-site parking. Each group loop, including the Cormorant Loop, has its own large parking area, which can accommodate a significant number of vehicles, trailers, and RVs. This is a crucial feature for group sites, as it provides a centralized and organized area for all attendees to park.

• Public Restrooms and Showers: The campground offers restrooms with flush toilets, which is a significant amenity in a remote setting. Many loops also have water hydrants. While some reviews have noted that water services or showers may be temporarily out of order or require maintenance, the availability of these facilities is a major highlight. It's always a good practice to check with the Tonto National Forest office for the most current conditions.

• RV and Tent Camping: Although the provided information does not mention RV hookups, the site is designed to accommodate both RV and tent camping. Each loop has individual camping units with a fire ring and picnic table, making it easy for different groups to set up their own designated spaces within the larger loop.

• Event Area and Grills: The site is built for events. Each group loop includes a shelter or ramada with large, group-sized picnic tables and grills, which are perfect for cooking for a large crowd. This provides a central gathering point for meals and other group activities, with some loops also featuring an event area and a sports field. A geology field trip review mentioned the presence of "two grills to make dinner" for a class of 30, which highlights this great feature.

• Kid-Friendly Facilities: The campground provides a playground for children, a sports field, and other open spaces, making it "good for kids." These amenities ensure that younger campers have plenty of fun things to do, whether it's playing on the equipment or running around in a safe, open area.

Grapevine Group Site's true value lies in its exceptional features and recreational highlights, which cater specifically to a large number of people looking to enjoy the outdoors together. These elements create an experience that goes far beyond simple camping.

• Lake Access and Water Sports: The campground’s location on the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake is its most significant highlight. It provides immediate access to the water for a wide range of activities, including boating, fishing, jet skiing, and water skiing. The site also includes a boat ramp, which makes launching watercraft incredibly convenient. This feature makes it a premier destination for fishing tournaments and other water-based events.

• Stunning Scenery: The site offers "stunning views" of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Sierra Ancha mountains. One reviewer noted the "amazing" view from the communal fire-pit, which highlights the beautiful vistas that can be enjoyed from many spots throughout the campground. The sunsets over the water are particularly spectacular.

• Hiking and Biking Trails: A shoreline trail is accessible from the campground, offering opportunities for both hikers and mountain bikers. While some reviews for other parts of the Grapevine area mention a more limited trail system, the presence of a dedicated trail from the campground is a great feature for those who want to explore the landscape on foot or by bike.

• Accommodating Large Groups: With a capacity of up to 100 people per loop and numerous individual camp units within each loop, the site is perfectly suited for accommodating very large groups. The spacious and spread-out design ensures that even a large party can have privacy while still being close enough for communal activities. This is a key reason why it is recommended for family reunions and other large events.

• Unique Event Space: The combination of the event areas, large grills, and beautiful scenery makes Grapevine a one-of-a-kind venue for special occasions. The site has even been used for weddings, which speaks to its versatility and appeal as a unique outdoor event space.

To plan your group event at Grapevine Group Site - Cormorant Loop, you should use the following contact and booking information:

• Address: Gila County, AZ 85545, USA (For administrative inquiries, the Tonto Basin Ranger Station is at 28079 N. AZ Hwy 188, Roosevelt, AZ 85545)

• Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the general reservation line for the U.S. Forest Service, which manages the site through Recreation.gov)

Reservations are required and can be made up to 6 months in advance. Due to the popularity of these group sites, especially on high-demand weekends, it is highly recommended to book well in advance. You can also call the Tonto National Forest Tonto Basin Ranger District office at (602) 225-5395 for campground inquiries and the most up-to-date information on conditions, alerts, and any fire restrictions.

Grapevine Group Site - Cormorant Loop is a truly exceptional choice for anyone in Arizona seeking a spacious, scenic, and well-equipped location for a group event. What makes it so worthwhile is its specialized design. While many campgrounds are built for individual parties, this site is made for gathering. The ability to accommodate up to 100 people in one loop, along with separate camp units, ensures that everyone in your group feels like they have their own space while still being part of the larger event. The amenities, including flush toilets, showers, and dedicated event areas with large grills, significantly enhance the comfort and convenience of a large-scale campout. The direct access to Roosevelt Lake for boating, fishing, and other water activities is a major highlight that sets this campground apart. The stunning desert and mountain scenery, coupled with the peaceful lakeside atmosphere, provides a backdrop that is both beautiful and inspiring. While some of the amenities may not always be in perfect working order, as noted in some past reviews, the overall quality and uniqueness of the site make it a top-tier choice for family reunions, work retreats, and large-scale gatherings. For an event that combines the beauty of Arizona's outdoors with the practicality and space needed for a large group, Grapevine Group Site is an unparalleled option that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Grapevine Group Site - Cormorant Loop

Gila County, AZ 85545, USA