Gentry Group Campground
02 reviewsP.O. Box 2337
Gentry Group Campground
$90.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for group standard non-electric sites is $90 during both peak and first-come-first-served seasons. Rates do not include taxes or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on a narrow ridge that splits two pristine canyons, Gentry Group Campground offers an intimate escape into Arizona's high country. From this spectacular vantage point, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the shimmering Black Canyon Lake below and endless waves of forested hillsides stretching to the horizon. The campground's compact design and limited maneuvering space make it an ideal sanctuary for tent campers and those with smaller RVs seeking a more secluded, back-to-nature experience.
Gentry Group Campground offers a single group camping site suitable for tents and small campers.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Gentry welcomes visitors with pleasantly moderate temperatures that make for perfect hiking and stargazing conditions. Summer brings crystal-clear skies and dry weather ideal for outdoor adventures. As autumn approaches, crisp mountain air signals the changing seasons, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland. Outside the peak season, adventurous souls may encounter snowfall and bracing temperatures that showcase the ridge's dramatic beauty in an entirely different light.
ElevationAt a breathtaking elevation of 7,700 feet, Gentry Group Campground shares its lofty perch with the historic Gentry Lookout Tower, a sentinel that has watched over these ancient forests for generations. This high-altitude setting offers cooler temperatures, thinner air that makes the stars seem closer, and a true mountain camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a cathedral of towering ponderosa pines whose vanilla-scented bark perfumes the air, the campground is embraced by a diverse forest tapestry of aromatic firs and sturdy oaks. The relatively flat terrain, carpeted with soft, sandy soil, provides comfortable tent sites beneath the protective canopy. This natural shelter creates an enchanting atmosphere where dappled sunlight filters through the branches by day, and moonlight casts mysterious shadows by night.
Geological RegionGentry's unique position atop a ridge that dramatically divides two deep canyons creates a geographical marvel that defines the camping experience. This natural formation, carved over millennia, is surrounded by rolling forested hillsides dominated by majestic ponderosa pines reaching skyward, interwoven with aromatic firs and hardy oaks. The ridge setting not only provides stunning panoramic views but also creates interesting wind patterns and acoustic effects that make every sunset and sunrise a memorable event.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe terrain is described as relatively flat with sandy surfaces. Accessibility for individuals with mobility needs is not specifically detailed.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates a single group site with space for up to 50 people and 6 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is nestled among towering ponderosa pines interspersed with fir and oak, providing some level of privacy and shade.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesDue to the limited maneuvering space, the campground is recommended for tents or small campers only.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Official check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 people and 6 vehicles per group site.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 50 people and 6 vehicles, making it suitable for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9th to October 11th annually. Closed for reservations from October 30th to June 5th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from October 13th to October 30th annually.
Cancellation PolicyChanges can be made ahead of arrival with a $10 fee for completely different stay dates. Cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of reservation fees and, in late cases (less than 14 days before check-in for group sites), the first night's reservation fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is suitable for a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Black Canyon Lake and the surrounding forested hillsides.
Hiking
The area offers hiking opportunities, although specific trail details such as length and difficulty are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, as visitors can often see a herd of wild horses that frequent the area.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire grills are provided; specifics on fire restrictions are not stated.
- Quiet hours are Unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available on-site; campers are required to bring their own water. Roads are sand and gravel and may be challenging for larger vehicles.
Active alertsNo current alerts are specified.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available in Forest Lakes (10 miles west) and Heber (13 miles east).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9th - October 12th annually.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash facilities within the campground itself. Visitors are required to pack out their trash. However, a trash dumpster is available at the nearby Black Canyon Rim Campground.
Proximity to water featuresViews of Black Canyon Lake are available; however, direct access or recreational use of the lake is not specified.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention the vault toilet is frequently used by non-campers due to proximity to the scenic lookout, which some campers found frustrating given the campground's nightly fee of $90.
HostThere is a campground host available. Reviews praise the host for being welcoming and helpful.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 2337
Driving directionsApproximately 13 west of Heber on AZ Highway 260, take Forest Road 300 south approximately four and one half miles, following signs to Gentry Lookout Tower. Located adjacent to Forest Road 300, at just over the 7,700 foot elevation mark, this campground shares its space with the Lookout Tower.
The roads to the campground are sand and gravel; maneuvering space is limited. Recommended for tents or small campers only.Nearby places
Forest Lakes (10 miles west), Heber (13 miles east)
Nearby supplies
Gas, phone, and groceries are available adjacent to Highway 260, approximately 10 miles west at Forest Lakes or 13 miles east at Heber.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Gentry Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful environment of the campground. Some reviewers appreciated the campground host and the natural surroundings, while others raised concerns about the shared vault toilet being accessible to the public due to the scenic lookout.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the peaceful setting and scenic views. One reviewer noted, "We love to stay at this campsite! It is beautiful and peaceful." The campground host was also praised for their...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
A significant complaint was regarding the vault toilet being used by non-campers due to its proximity to the scenic lookout. One user stated, "The only thing that was unexpected and that I can't...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should bring their own water as none is provided. Additionally, users should be prepared to pack out their trash due to the lack of a dumpster on-site. Bringing a quiet generator is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground operates seasonally from May to October, which aligns with favorable weather conditions. Reviews do not provide specific seasonal insights on variations in experience.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We love to stay at this campsite! It is beautiful and peaceful," shared one reviewer. Another stated, "The only thing that was unexpected and that I can't stand is that the vault toilet is basically...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground consists of a single group site. One reviewer mentioned their experience specifically, saying, "Gentry is amazing. The only thing that was unexpected...is that the vault toilet is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and rules require dogs to be well-behaved, leashed, and not left unattended. Aggressive or nuisance animals may lead to the owner being asked to leave without a refund.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025