SECLUDED Arizona CAMPING AREAS (Phoenix, Prescott: cabin, bars, eat)

[DrkChoclatPasion]

I want to find a camping area that I can drive in to that is secluded up north of Phoenix. I am a city boy just looking to make unique escape to the wilderness for relaxation, cooler weather, and a nice time with a special someone.

I would like hiking possibilities so we have SOMETHING to do while up there. Also what is fun and easy to do while camping? And what are some things I MUST bring so I don't have to slap my forehead when I get out there?

Must be realistically accessible by 4 cylinder Dodge Caravan or 4 cylinder car.

Help is much appreciated!

[Ponderosa]

Here's one I would consider for the novice Arizonian. It's not totally secluded, nothing is, anymore, but you can get away and there is still stuff to do. Crown King area.

Take I-17 north to Bumble Bee exit and then follow your nose to the top of the mountain. You can also get off at Blood Basin Rd. There you will find a very small town of Crown King. There are a couple of bars and eating places there (the things to do). It's been a while but they used to be pretty good fun on weekends. If you keep on going past Crown King toward Horsethief Basin, you will find any number of dispersed campsites and a degree of solitude. There are a lot of campsites just past Crown King that will give you a view of the Phoenix city lights. I couldn't explain how to find them if I wanted to. You have to scout it out a bit. Back in the day we would set up a tent in some nice spot and then head down to party at the saloon in Crown King coming back at night and trying to find our spot again. There's a small lake at Horsethief that you can walk around, sit in the pines, etc.

[Searcher521]

Originally Posted by Ponderosa

Here's one I would consider for the novice Arizonian. It's not totally secluded, nothing is, anymore, but you can get away and there is still stuff to do. Crown King area.

This is a good idea Ponderosa. I would recommend heading south out of Crown King a little ways. I remember a water catchment with a rock damn and an abondoned stone cabin in the pines that was beautiful.

The camping experience is not complete for most folks without a campfire to set around at night. A new camper has to be aware of how to choose a site, clear an area and attend the fire and most importantly what you need to kill it and now absolutely that it is dead. Currently on open flame in the Prescott National Forest (Coconino, Tonto) is strictly forbidden.

Prescott National Forest - Newsroom

When I last checked there were no restrictions in the Apache-Sitgreaves which is on the Mogollon Rim. The new camper may want to try out the Woods Canyon Lake area which will be packed on a weekend but there are other Rim Lakes and tons of camping spots.