Herb Martyr Campground
4.387 reviewsHerb Martyr Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Single Site: $15 per night. With Golden Age, Golden Access, Interagency Senior or Interagency Access Pass $7.50 Double Site: $30 per night.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Cave Creek Canyon, Herb Martyr trailhead beckons nature enthusiasts and bird lovers to one of Arizona's most extraordinary wildlife sanctuaries. This enchanting gateway has earned its reputation as a premier destination where over 300 bird species paint the sky with their vibrant presence. From the iridescent flash of magnificent hummingbirds to the distinctive call of Montezuma quail, every visit promises unforgettable encounters. Beyond the remarkable avian diversity, lucky visitors might glimpse the elusive Apache fox squirrel darting through the canopy, catch sight of a curious coatimundi foraging along the trail, or lock eyes with a graceful Coues white-tailed deer emerging from the shadows.
Herb Martyr Campground is a primitive camping facility designed exclusively for tent campers, offering a natural and secluded experience.
Weather and SeasonsThe canyon's high-altitude climate creates a refreshing escape from desert heat, with pleasantly moderate summers punctuated by dramatic afternoon rain showers that bring the landscape to life. Winter transforms this mountain haven into a crisp wonderland, where cold to very cold temperatures often dust the peaks with snow, creating stunning contrasts against the rugged canyon walls. This seasonal diversity not only shapes the hiking experience but also influences the ever-changing parade of wildlife that calls this special place home.
ElevationPerched at a refreshing 5,800 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers cool relief from the desert floor below, creating the perfect climate for both hikers seeking respite and the diverse wildlife that thrives in these elevated woodlands.
Natural Features and SceneryCave Creek Canyon embraces visitors with its dramatic rock formations and lush riparian corridors that create an oasis of biodiversity in the Sky Islands. This natural wonderland serves as a living gallery where rare and common species alike find refuge among the towering sycamores, oaks, and pines that line the canyon walls, creating countless opportunities for wildlife observation and photographic moments that capture the raw beauty of the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails about accessibility features are not provided, though the primitive nature of the campground and its remote location may make it challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSpecific measurements or descriptions of site sizes are not provided; user reviews suggest that the sites are suitable for tent camping and are located near natural features such as streams and waterfalls.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate varying levels of privacy depending on the campsite; some sites are more secluded while others are close to amenities like restrooms.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite #5 for views, Campsite #2 for proximity to water.
Best CampsitesCampsite #5 praised for views.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group camping is not supported at this campground as only single and double sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsFederal passes accepted; Buy a pass online.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Herb Martyr Campground offers activities that are ideal for nature enthusiasts, particularly birdwatching and hiking. With access to the Herb Martyr trailhead, this site is a gateway to the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty of Cave Creek Canyon.
Hiking
The Herb Martyr trailhead near the campground is a popular destination for hiking. The area features trails with impressive scenery and opportunities to explore the Chiricahua Mountains.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with over 300 bird species, including the magnificent hummingbird and Montezuma quail. Other wildlife such as Apache fox squirrels, coatimundis, and Coues white-tailed deer are frequently spotted.Winter Activities
No information is provided regarding winter activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable as the campground is situated near a small stream, not a lake or large water body.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mentioned rough road conditions requiring high-clearance or 4WD vehicles.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available but were reported to be full during some stays, indicating potential maintenance issues.
Proximity to water featuresMultiple waterfalls and streams, including water sounds audible from Campsites #4 and #5.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues like full trash bins, road conditions, and powdery dirt
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
4.4
7 reviews
Herb Martyr Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Herb Martyr Campground are largely positive, highlighting its serene setting, beautiful natural surroundings, and suitability for birdwatching and hiking. Specific campsites like #5 and #2 are praised for their unique features such as proximity to waterfalls or streams. However, some users mentioned maintenance issues, such as full trash bins.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere, scenic views, and easy access to trails and wildlife. Specific campsites, such as #5, offer '270 degrees of incredible fantastic grand views,' while #2 is...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The main issues raised by campers include the road condition leading to the campground, full trash bins during some stays, and the fine powdery dirt that can get into belongings.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend coming prepared with high-clearance or 4WD vehicles for easier access, bringing plenty of water as none is available on-site, and staying during the full moon to enjoy nighttime views.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is quiet and less crowded during off-peak seasons. Visitors planning winter stays should be aware of colder temperatures and potential snow.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Unbelievable campsite for $15, a steal! 17 peaks and 270 degrees of incredible fantastic grand views.' - Rob Peele
2. 'Bathroom clean, pretty spot by running stream with lots of cool birds.' -...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #5 is highly praised for its views, while campsite #2 is noted for its proximity to a stream and the bathroom but sacrifices views. Site #4 is described as being at the top of a waterfall...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features, and the challenging road conditions may make the site inaccessible to some.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address the campground's pet policies or pet-friendliness.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025