Long Valley Recreation Camp

Welcome to the great outdoors of Northern Arizona, where the fresh scent of pine and the cool mountain air create the perfect escape from the desert heat. If you're looking for a peaceful and scenic retreat, Long Valley Recreation Camp in Happy Jack, AZ, offers a truly unique camping experience. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a youth group outing, or a serene solo trip, this destination provides a tranquil setting amidst the majestic Ponderosa pines of the Coconino National Forest.

Long Valley Recreation Camp is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a dedicated space designed for reflection, community, and enjoying the natural beauty of Arizona. The camp is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which shapes its mission and atmosphere. It serves as a popular location for church youth conferences, family reunions, and other group events, but its stunning environment and welcoming amenities make it an ideal spot for any individual or group seeking a wholesome outdoor adventure. The elevation provides a welcome respite, with mild temperatures that are often a dozen degrees or more cooler than the valleys below, making it an excellent year-round destination, particularly during Arizona's hot summer months.

The camp's location and focus on creating a family-friendly environment mean it's particularly well-suited for families with children. The expansive property allows for ample space to play and explore, and the natural surroundings provide endless opportunities for educational and recreational activities. From spotting local wildlife like the majestic elk herds that frequent the area to simply stargazing under the incredibly clear night skies, the camp offers a connection to nature that is increasingly hard to find. The camp’s commitment to providing a safe and clean environment is evident in the positive feedback from its visitors, who often praise the well-maintained grounds and facilities. This blend of natural beauty and thoughtful management ensures that your visit will be both memorable and comfortable, providing a true sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location and Accessibility

Nestled in the beautiful Coconino National Forest, Long Valley Recreation Camp is situated at Forest Service Rd 630, Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA. This location places it within a reasonable driving distance from many major cities in Arizona, making it an accessible weekend getaway. For those traveling from the Phoenix metropolitan area, the drive typically takes a few hours, offering a scenic journey through diverse Arizona landscapes. The route to the camp is part of the experience itself, with opportunities to see abundant wildlife and stunning views, including herds of elk that are a common sight along the roadways.

The camp prides itself on its accessibility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty it has to offer. It features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to navigate the initial arrival and parking process. While the terrain of a campground is naturally varied, this commitment to accessibility from the start is a thoughtful consideration that sets Long Valley Recreation Camp apart. The serene, forested setting makes it feel remote and secluded, yet it is conveniently located relative to main thoroughfares, providing a perfect balance of wilderness and convenience. The camp's location in Happy Jack, a small community known for its recreational opportunities, also means it’s a great base camp for exploring other nearby attractions and off-roading trails, as noted by visitors who appreciate the abundance of activities in the surrounding area.

Services Offered

• Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restroom facilities are available on-site, providing a key amenity that enhances the comfort of all campers.

• On-site parking: The camp offers dedicated on-site parking, ensuring a convenient and secure place for vehicles. This is especially helpful for large groups and those with multiple vehicles.

• Wheelchair accessible parking: A specific commitment to accessibility is demonstrated by the provision of a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, making the camp more welcoming to all visitors.

• Good for kids: The camp is designed to be a safe and engaging environment for children. The open spaces, natural setting, and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal location for families and youth groups.

• Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints operation: As a property owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the camp's services are managed with an emphasis on creating a wholesome, family-oriented, and spiritually uplifting environment.

Features and Highlights

• Majestic scenery: The camp is located in the heart of a beautiful pine forest, providing a stunning natural backdrop for all activities. Visitors often comment on the majestic scenery and the beauty of the surrounding Coconino National Forest.

• Abundant wildlife: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including large herds of elk. Travelers to the camp frequently report spotting these impressive animals, adding an exciting element to the journey and the stay.

• Mild temperatures: Situated at a higher elevation, the camp offers a welcome change in temperature from Arizona's hotter regions. The days are pleasantly cool in the shade, and the nights are mild, perfect for a campfire and stargazing.

• Clear night skies: With minimal light pollution, the night skies over Long Valley are breathtaking. This makes the camp a fantastic location for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys viewing the constellations.

• Cool temps and beatitudes skies: As a reviewer noted, the combination of cool temperatures and stunningly beautiful skies, both day and night, is a key highlight of the camping experience here.

• Great off-roading: The surrounding area offers a variety of off-roading trails, providing an exciting activity for adventure seekers who want to explore beyond the camp's boundaries.

Contact Information

For inquiries or to learn more about the camp, you can reach out via the following contact details.

Address: Forest Service Rd 630, Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA

Phone: (602) 799-0257

Mobile Phone: +1 602-799-0257

What is Worth Choosing

Long Valley Recreation Camp stands out as an exceptional choice for anyone looking for a serene and purposeful camping experience in Arizona. What makes it particularly worth choosing is its unique combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere. It is more than just a campsite; it’s a beautiful property that is purposefully maintained to serve as a retreat for families, youth groups, and individuals seeking a wholesome and spiritually uplifting environment. The fact that it is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ensures a high standard of cleanliness and a focus on community and wholesome recreation.

The location itself is a major draw. The cool temperatures and the majestic scenery of the Coconino National Forest provide a much-needed escape from the Arizona heat, offering a refreshing and invigorating experience. Visitors consistently highlight the beautiful surroundings and the abundance of wildlife, with sightings of large elk herds being a common and memorable part of the trip. The peaceful setting allows for deep connection with nature, and the incredibly clear night skies are a spectacular feature that should not be missed.

Furthermore, the camp's accessibility, including wheelchair-accessible parking, and its family-friendly environment make it an inclusive destination for all. The availability of clean restrooms and on-site parking addresses key concerns for campers, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. For those who love off-roading, the surrounding area offers plenty of opportunities to explore, adding an extra layer of adventure to the stay. In summary, Long Valley Recreation Camp is a top choice for those who value a clean, safe, and beautiful environment, offering a unique blend of natural wonder and thoughtful amenities that make it an ideal destination for creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Long Valley Recreation Camp

Forest Service Rd 630, Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA