Alpine Divide Campground
4.0020 reviewsLatitude: 33.89479444 Longitude: -109.1526278
Alpine Divide Campground
$5.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
A $10 fee is charged per vehicle per night. Additional camp unit fees of $10 are collected at the campground. Interagency/Senior Discount is $5.
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About this campground
Nestled in a serene grove of towering ponderosa pines, Alpine Divide Campground offers an intimate mountain retreat at the foot of majestic Escudilla Mountain. This hidden gem provides the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness solitude, where each thoughtfully spaced campsite comes equipped with its own table, fire ring, and cooking grill. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend escape or using it as your basecamp for exploring the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, this small but charming campground delivers an authentic outdoor experience that brings you closer to nature's quiet rhythms.
Alpine Divide Campground is a small, partially open campground with a mix of primitive sites suitable for tents and small trailers. Of the 12 campsites originally available, only four are currently open due to ongoing construction. One site is specifically designed for disability access.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground remains quietly tucked away like the forest itself, the surrounding lands have long been a place of natural significance and human connection with the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons at Alpine Divide. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, where crystalline mornings give way to crisp, star-filled nights. As spring arrives, gentle rains awaken the forest floor and wildflowers begin their colorful display. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for hiking and exploration, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues as temperatures begin their pleasant descent. Each season offers its own unique charm and outdoor opportunities.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 8,500 feet above sea level, Alpine Divide Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat and lowland temperatures. This high-elevation sanctuary provides naturally cooler conditions throughout the summer months, while the thin mountain air delivers crystal-clear views and that distinctive pine-scented freshness that only comes with altitude. The elevated position creates an ideal climate for comfortable camping and serves as a natural air conditioner during the warmer seasons.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering ponderosa pines that filter golden sunlight through their branches and carpet the ground with fragrant needles. The campground's position at the base of Escudilla Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventures. For those seeking a peaceful moment of reflection, a scenic trail leading east from the campground reveals a babbling mountain stream—a hidden oasis where you can cool your feet, listen to the water's gentle song, or simply enjoy the tranquil forest atmosphere that defines this special corner of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
Geological RegionAlpine Divide Campground sits within the remarkable geological tapestry of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, cradled at the base of Escudilla Mountain. This location places you within one of Arizona's most diverse ecosystems, where ancient volcanic forces shaped the dramatic peaks and valleys that define the landscape today. The ponderosa pine grove that shelters the campground represents a classic example of the region's montane forest ecosystem, thriving in the volcanic soils and mountain climate that make this area a geological and ecological treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityOne of the four available campsites is designed for disability access. The campground also has handicapped parking and a turnaround for vehicles.
Sites SizeThe campground accommodates tents and trailers up to 12 feet in length.
Sites PrivacySites are described as well-spaced, providing shade and a sense of separation. However, due to highway proximity, traffic noise may impact privacy.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are recommended for tents or small trailers due to limited turnaround space for larger rigs.
Best CampsitesThe accessible site with a cement pad is highly rated for those needing disability access.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit mentioned.
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned as a feature of this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of four single-unit sites accessible via hard-packed dirt roads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 15 onward (no specific closing date provided).
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform mentioned; campground operates on a self-serve fee basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityOperates on a first-come, first-served basis, with only four available sites due to construction and closures.
Cancellation PolicyNo explicit cancellation policy provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Alpine Divide Campground can enjoy the serene setting of ponderosa pines and nearby mountain terrain. Recreational opportunities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and easy access to a small stream east of the campground. Several reviewers remarked on the area's natural beauty, with one noting the presence of a yearling doe at their campsite. There's potential for cultural and natural exploration in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the area, including a path leading east to a small stream. No specific trail details such as difficulty or length are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reviewers often mentioning encounters with local fauna such as deer. The campground's forested setting provides ample opportunities for observing nature.Winter Activities
The weather data suggests potential for winter activities such as snowshoeing, given the snowfall in the area during colder months. However, specific winter recreational activities are not explicitly noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are provided at each campsite for campfires.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground is near U.S. Highway 191, which results in significant traffic noise during the day. Some reviews also mention the presence of a wolf pack at night.
Active alertsHalf of the campground remains closed due to road damage and disrepair.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
The closest emergency services are located in Alpine, including a fire department and limited medical facilities. Larger hospitals and police stations are in Springerville.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season begins May 15, but specific dates are not clarified.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are provided seasonally at the campground for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresA small stream is accessible via a trail east of the campground.
Common complaintsMany user reviews note traffic noise due to proximity to the highway and the prolonged closure of eight sites due to disrepair.
HostA camp volunteer is mentioned in reviews but no official host information provided.
Campground Map
Latitude: 33.89479444 Longitude: -109.1526278
Driving directionsDirections from Alpine: Drive four miles north on paved U.S. Highway 191.
Access is via a paved road (U.S. Highway 191) from Alpine. Minimal challenges are noted for passenger vehicles.Nearby places
Alpine (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Eagar (23 miles, approximately 35 minutes), Springerville (25 miles, approximately 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Gas, groceries, restaurants, and equipment rental are available in Alpine, approximately 4 miles south of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
20 reviews
Alpine Divide Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, natural beauty, and serene atmosphere, while highlighting its convenient proximity to Alpine. However, some express frustration over the partial closure of campsites and traffic noise from the nearby highway.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
- 'Very clean and did not smell at all' (restrooms).
- 'Pristine beauty in a convenient location.'
- 'Lots of candidates for hammock mounting accessories (also known as trees).'
- 'Clean and pretty...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Traffic noise from the highway ('A LOT OF ROAD TRAFFIC!').
- Partial closure of campsites for an extended period ('Half the campground is closed. Traffic noise. But beautiful.').
- Limited water...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own water, as potable water is not available on-site.
- Consider bringing toilet paper, as some users noted its absence in restrooms.
- Visit during colder months to avoid heavier...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
- Positive: Cooler months are quieter in terms of traffic noise, making for a more peaceful experience.
- Negative: Off-season closures limit water availability and access to certain parts of the...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'This is one of the best and most beautiful campgrounds I have stayed at!'
- 'Great camping. I think there were two other campers. Water, good. Restrooms, normal for forest service, very quiet.'
-...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Best Sites: Reviewers did not specify particular site numbers, but one noted that the most beautiful sites are currently closed.
- Worst Sites: Proximity to the highway may affect the experience at...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
- One site is designed for disability access, and the campground has handicapped parking and a turnaround.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
- Pets are allowed but must be restrained or on a leash. No additional details about pet amenities or challenges are provided.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025