Pinal Campground

For Arizonans looking to trade the desert heat for the cool embrace of a mountain forest, Pinal Campground offers a perfect high-elevation escape. Situated at approximately 8,000 feet in the Pinal Mountains, this campground provides a stunning change of scenery and temperature from the lower-lying areas of Globe and Phoenix. It's a place where you can find refuge in a dense forest of ponderosa pines and white fir trees, a welcome sight and a refreshing scent after a long drive. Pinal Campground is a well-maintained and peaceful destination that is highly valued by local campers for its beauty, accessibility, and tranquility.

The campground’s appeal is its ability to provide a classic forest camping experience with a number of convenient amenities. While it’s not a large, bustling park, it is a quiet and serene location, ideal for a relaxing getaway. It’s also known for being a great spot for families, with features that make it kid-friendly and safe for all to enjoy. The cool air and forested setting make it an ideal base camp for a variety of outdoor activities, from leisurely picnics to challenging hikes. It's a hidden gem that is well worth the journey, offering a genuine sense of escape and connection to nature without the feeling of being completely isolated.

Pinal Campground is a testament to the diverse landscapes Arizona has to offer. Just a short drive from the arid desert, you find yourself in a lush, high-altitude ecosystem where the air is crisp and the views are spectacular. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the experience, the site’s balance of rustic charm and helpful amenities makes for a comfortable and memorable trip. Its unique location and quiet atmosphere create a truly special environment for anyone looking to recharge and explore a different side of Arizona’s natural beauty.

Pinal Campground is located near Globe, Arizona, at the address of Globe, AZ 85501, USA. It is situated in the Tonto National Forest, approximately 14.5 miles southwest of the city. The drive to the campground is part of the adventure, taking you up a 9-mile-long dirt road from the paved portions of the route. While the road is unpaved and can be bumpy, it is generally passable for any type of car under dry conditions. It's important to note that this is a winding mountain road, and while the views are breathtaking, it's best to drive with caution, especially since there can be steep drop-offs.

From Globe, you'll follow a series of forest roads, including the well-maintained Jess Hayes Road and Forest Road 651, to reach the campground. It is highly recommended to check weather conditions before heading out, as the road can be slippery and have washouts during heavy rain or snow. The elevation of 8,000 feet means a significant temperature difference from the lower elevations, so packing for cooler weather is always a good idea, especially at night. The campground provides on-site parking, with spots available for both RVs and tents, making it accessible for a variety of camping setups.

Pinal Campground offers a handful of essential services that make for a more comfortable stay in a primitive setting.

• Public Restrooms: The campground provides well-maintained vault toilets for public use, a significant convenience in a remote location. While they may be rustic, they are a welcome amenity.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill grate, making it easy to prepare meals and enjoy a campfire in the evenings. It is crucial to check for fire restrictions, which are common in Arizona's forests.

• Tent and RV Sites: The campground is suitable for both tent camping and RV camping. The sites are generally spacious and well-spread out, providing a good sense of privacy. It is noted that RVs should be no longer than 20 feet due to the narrow roads.

• On-site Parking: Dedicated on-site parking is available at each campsite, ensuring that you have a proper place for your vehicle and making setup convenient.

Pinal Campground is celebrated for its unique features that provide a memorable outdoor experience.

• Cooler Temperatures: One of the biggest highlights is the significant temperature drop compared to Globe or Phoenix. The high elevation offers a refreshing break from the desert heat, making it a perfect spot for summer camping.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: The area is known for its extensive network of hiking trails. There are at least eight trails located within one mile of Pinal and Six Shooter Campgrounds, offering opportunities for both leisurely walks and more strenuous treks. The trails provide spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Kid-Friendly Environment: The campground is recognized as being "good for kids," with opportunities for outdoor play and exploration. The designated trails, many of which are kid-friendly, allow families to enjoy a safe and engaging hiking experience.

• Peaceful and Secluded: Pinal Campground is a quiet and serene location, with a low number of sites that are well-spaced out. This provides a great sense of privacy and makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. It's not uncommon to be one of the few campers there, especially on a weekday.

• Natural Beauty: The campground is surrounded by tall stands of ponderosa pines and white fir trees, which provide a beautiful, shaded environment. The views from the drive up the mountain are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the rugged Arizona landscape.

For up-to-date information on road conditions, weather, and fire restrictions, it is best to contact the Tonto National Forest directly.

• Address: Globe, AZ 85501, USA

• Phone: For information on the Tonto National Forest, you can contact the Globe Ranger District. A publicly available number is typically found through a search for the Tonto National Forest.

Pinal Campground is an excellent choice for Arizona campers who want to experience a significant change of scenery and climate without a long drive to northern Arizona. Its biggest selling point is the combination of high elevation, a beautiful forested environment, and the peace and quiet that comes from its secluded location. The availability of amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and running water—as well as the on-site parking—makes the camping experience more comfortable and accessible for a wide range of visitors, including families and those with RVs.

The extensive network of hiking trails is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. You can spend days exploring the area and never run out of new vistas to discover. The fact that the road to the campground, while bumpy, is manageable for most vehicles is a huge plus. This makes the tranquility and beauty of the site accessible to a broader audience. While it is important to check the weather and pack accordingly, the effort is well worth it for the beautiful views and refreshing temperatures. Pinal Campground is a true gem in the Tonto National Forest, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes for a truly rewarding camping trip. It's a place that will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected with the outdoors.

Pinal Campground

Globe, AZ 85501, USA