Sulphide Del Ray Campground

For Arizonans seeking a true escape from the desert heat and the bright city lights, Sulphide Del Ray Campground offers a perfect high-elevation retreat. Situated in the Pinal Mountains of the Tonto National Forest, this campground is a testament to the diverse and beautiful landscapes our state has to offer. With its location among tall ponderosa pines, it provides a cool, shaded environment that feels worlds away from the urban hustle. This is a place for those who appreciate the simple beauty of nature, where the quiet is only broken by the rustle of the trees and the stillness of the night. This guide will provide an honest and factual overview of Sulphide Del Ray Campground, helping you decide if its rustic charm and tranquil setting are right for your next adventure.

Sulphide Del Ray is not a sprawling, amenity-rich resort. Instead, it offers a more intimate and self-reliant camping experience. As one visitor noted, it's a "beautiful campground on a hill surrounded by pines" that gets "completely silent at night." This atmosphere is a major draw for those who prioritize peace and quiet over convenience. However, it's crucial to be prepared, as the remoteness and limited services mean you need to come with everything you'll need. We will use a combination of publicly available information and firsthand reviews to give you a clear picture of its location, services, and what makes it a destination worth the journey.

We'll cover everything from the kind of car you'll need to get there to the unique features that make this spot a hidden gem in Arizona's vast wilderness.

Sulphide Del Ray Campground is located in the Pinal Mountains, with its address listed as Globe, AZ 85501, USA. It is about 10 miles southwest of the city of Globe, but the journey involves a significant drive on unpaved roads. The access road is described as "decenly maintained" but with a "washboard dirt road" that can be challenging. A review mentioned that a Honda CRV handled the road "ok," but it's important to be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride. A vehicle with some clearance is highly recommended, especially for those with less off-road experience.

The campground itself is on a hill, which offers scenic views but can be a challenge for campers. Reviewers noted that there are "minimal flat spots" for setting up a tent or parking an RV, and the "hills and amount of pine needles" can create a slip-and-fall hazard. This makes it less suitable for those with mobility issues or families with small children. Parking is also limited, with very little space available for vehicles beyond the small, irregular parking aprons at each site.

Despite these challenges, the seclusion and scenery that the location offers are a significant payoff for the adventurous camper who is prepared for the journey.

Sulphide Del Ray Campground provides a basic set of amenities for a comfortable, though rustic, camping experience.

• Public Restroom: The campground has a public restroom, which reviewers consistently praise. One camper gave the bathroom a "5 stars" rating, noting that it was "very clean and stocked" and did not stink. This is a significant comfort for a primitive-style campground.
• Running Water: There is running water available. However, based on reviews, it's prudent to bring your own water as a backup, as the availability of running water can sometimes be inconsistent in remote areas.
• Tent and RV Sites: The campground is suitable for both tent and RV camping, though the sites are often small and have minimal flat ground. It's noted that the roads are not recommended for trailers over 16 feet. Some sites are equipped with RV electric hookups, a rare find for a location so seemingly remote, which is a big plus for RV campers.
• Camping Fee: A fee is required for camping at Sulphide Del Ray, which helps with the upkeep of the limited facilities.
• No On-site Host: It is worth noting that there is no gatehouse or host, so campers should plan to be self-sufficient and follow all posted rules regarding quiet hours and fire safety.

The features and highlights of Sulphide Del Ray are not in its development, but in its natural and untouched character.

• Incredible Scenery: The location on a hill surrounded by pine trees offers fantastic views and a cool, forested environment. The "view up above campgrounds is really worth it."
• Peace and Quiet: For those seeking solitude, this is the perfect spot. The campground "gets completely silent at night," which is a rare treat. The lack of constant noise from ATVs or loud music (assuming other campers are considerate) makes for a truly peaceful escape.
• Stargazing: A major highlight is the night sky. With "perfectly dark" conditions and the stars visible "between the trees and your fire," the campground is an ideal spot for stargazing and astrophotography.
• Rich History: The site was once an old mining company camp where miners lived to escape the heat of the lower elevations. This adds an interesting historical dimension to the experience.
• Hiking: The campground is a great basecamp for hiking. The area is located in the Pinal Mountains, which have a variety of trails and an abundance of wildlife.

For more information about Sulphide Del Ray Campground and to check on current conditions, it is best to contact the Globe Ranger District of the Tonto National Forest.

Address: Globe, AZ 85501, USA

Phone: (928) 402-6200

Mobile Phone: +1 928-402-6200

Sulphide Del Ray Campground is worth choosing for the camper who values a true, rustic escape. It is not for everyone; the challenging access and sloped terrain mean it's best suited for those who are prepared and physically capable. However, for those who are, the rewards are immense. The quiet, peaceful environment and the chance to be completely immersed in a beautiful pine forest are the main draws. The surprising availability of clean restrooms and running water, along with the option for electric hookups, makes it a step up from true dispersed camping without losing its wild feel.

This is a place where you can disconnect, sit by a campfire under a sky full of stars, and feel completely at peace. The fact that it's a short drive from Globe but feels miles away is a significant benefit. It's a place to be mindful of your impact, as one reviewer noted about trash and fire safety, which adds to the sense of a shared, respectful community of campers. It is a true testament to the hidden gems that Arizona has to offer beyond its more well-known destinations, and it is a place that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who takes the time to visit.

Sulphide Del Ray Campground

Globe, AZ 85501, USA