KP Cienega Campground

Welcome, Arizona explorers! Are you ready to escape the heat and discover a tranquil, secluded piece of our state's stunning high country? Tucked away in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, KP Cienega Campground offers a peaceful retreat that feels a world away from the bustle of city life. This is a place where towering pines and lush meadows create a breathtaking backdrop for your next outdoor adventure. As one of Arizona's highest campgrounds, sitting at nearly 9,000 feet, it provides a deliciously cool respite during the hot summer months. It is an ideal spot for those who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in a quiet, natural environment.

For many in Arizona, camping is a cherished tradition, a way to experience the diverse landscapes that make our state so unique. KP Cienega Campground provides a pristine and authentic experience, perfect for those who appreciate solitude and a direct connection to nature. Past visitors rave about the "stunning location" and the "clean, quiet, and peaceful" atmosphere. This article will serve as your guide, providing a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know about KP Cienega Campground, from its remote location and key amenities to its unique features and what makes it a truly special place to visit.

As a professional content writer, my goal is to provide a factual and engaging overview that inspires you to explore this hidden gem. This guide is crafted with the local Arizona user in mind, understanding that the journey to these secluded spots is part of the adventure. The reviews from real customers provide a great deal of insight, highlighting the amazing wildlife sightings, such as a "heard of about twenty deer" and "bats, owls, and elk calls" at night. These details paint a vivid picture of the serene and wild experience that awaits you.

We will delve into the practical details, such as its location and the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay. You'll learn that while the campground is isolated, it still provides essential services like public restrooms and running water, which are a major convenience in such a remote setting. The fact that it is dog-friendly is also a significant plus, as it means your canine companions can join in on the fun. This article will help you decide if KP Cienega Campground is the perfect spot for your next peaceful getaway.

Ultimately, KP Cienega Campground is for the serious nature lover. It's for those who find joy in the rustling of leaves and the calls of wild animals, rather than the noise of a crowded campsite. Its small size, with only five single unit sites, ensures an intimate and uncrowded experience. This guide aims to be your trusted resource, providing the information you need to plan a safe and memorable trip to this extraordinary piece of Arizona's backcountry.

Location and Accessibility

KP Cienega Campground is located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, a beautiful area near the town of Morenci, Arizona. While the address is listed as Morenci, AZ 85540, USA, it is important to note that the campground is quite remote and is best accessed from U.S. Route 191, also known as the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway. Directions from Hannagan Meadow involve traveling south on U.S. Route 191 for 4.75 miles to Forest Road 55 and then turning left. The campground is 1.3 miles down Forest Road 55.

The location is described as being "pretty isolated from civilization," which is a major part of its appeal. The journey itself is a scenic drive through stunning Arizona backcountry. The access road is noted to be in good shape, but visitors should always be prepared for changing road conditions, especially at this high elevation. With an elevation of nearly 9,000 feet, it is one of the highest campgrounds in the state, offering a welcome escape from the heat of the lower valleys.

Services Offered

• Public restroom: The campground provides clean and well-maintained vault toilets. A past visitor noted them as "the cleanest vaults we have ever had the pleasure to use," which is a testament to the care taken at the site.

• Running water: Running water is available at the campground, which is a significant and convenient amenity in such a remote setting. However, some sources suggest potable water is not available, so it is recommended to bring your own drinking water as a precaution.

• Tent sites: The campground is ideal for tent camping. It has five single unit sites, offering a quiet and intimate experience. The sites are well-suited for tents and small trailers or motorhomes up to 16 feet.

• Camping fee: There is a fee for camping at the site. This fee contributes to the maintenance of the facilities and the preservation of the natural area.

Features and Highlights

• Stunning natural beauty: The location is "absolutely stunning," with enormous pines, blue and Engelmann spruces, and beautiful meadows. The scenery is a major draw for visitors.

• Abundant wildlife: The campground is a fantastic spot for wildlife observation. Past visitors have seen deer grazing in the fields, and heard the calls of owls and elk at night. This makes it a great choice for nature enthusiasts.

• Hiking opportunities: There is a "beautiful trail just down the road" from the campground. The adjacent KP Trailhead provides access to the Blue Range Primitive Area, offering extensive hiking and backpacking opportunities.

• Good for kids: The natural setting is a great learning and exploration environment for children, making it a family-friendly destination for those who love the outdoors.

• Dogs allowed: Your furry companions are welcome at KP Cienega Campground, so you can bring your dogs along for the adventure. It is important to keep them restrained or on a leash.

• Quiet and secluded: With only five sites, the campground is known for its peaceful, quiet, and isolated atmosphere. It's the perfect place to truly disconnect from the world.

Contact Information

Phone: (928) 339-5000

Mobile Phone: +1 928-339-5000

Address: Morenci, AZ 85540, USA

What is Worth Choosing

KP Cienega Campground is worth choosing for the camper who is looking for a truly secluded and authentic wilderness experience. The primary reason to visit this site is its remote and stunning location at a high elevation, providing a cool and peaceful escape from Arizona's heat. Unlike larger, more populated campgrounds, KP Cienega offers an intimate and quiet setting, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural world without the distraction of crowds.

The exceptional cleanliness of the vault toilets, as highlighted by a past reviewer, is a significant and unexpected bonus in a primitive campground. This level of maintenance demonstrates a commitment to visitor comfort and care. The presence of running water is another key amenity that makes a stay here more convenient and comfortable.

For wildlife enthusiasts, KP Cienega is a paradise. The frequent sightings of deer, bats, owls, and elk create a magical and unforgettable experience, allowing you to witness nature in its purest form. The direct access to hiking trails also makes it an ideal base camp for exploring the beautiful Blue Range Primitive Area.

In conclusion, while KP Cienega Campground may be small and secluded, its value is immense. It is a place that rewards those who seek solitude, natural beauty, and a chance to truly connect with the outdoors. If you're looking to escape, relax, and create lasting memories in a beautiful high-country setting, this peaceful and well-maintained campground is an excellent choice. It is a testament to the fact that some of Arizona's best spots are those that are a little bit off the beaten path.

KP Cienega Campground

Morenci, AZ 85540, USA