Soldier Creek Campground
4.5513 reviewsSoldier Creek Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona
Soldier Creek Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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 campsite fee is $20 per night, with discounts ($10) available for Golden Age, Golden Access, Interagency Senior, or Interagency Access Pass holders. Double sites cost $40 per night. Payments accepted in cash or check.
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About this campground
Discover a mountain sanctuary where ancient granite giants stand sentinel among the trees at Soldier Creek. Here, massive boulders sculpted by millennia of wind and weather create natural privacy screens between campsites, transforming this forest grove into an intimate retreat. The crystalline waters of Soldier Creek whisper through the campground, while towering Douglas firs provide a cathedral-like canopy overhead. Even in the heat of summer, this high-altitude haven offers refreshingly cool temperatures, making it a perfect escape for hikers and nature lovers seeking respite from the desert heat below.
Soldier Creek Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent and RV camping. It offers a single loop design among forested areas and granite boulders.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's natural air conditioning at 9,300 feet, where summer temperatures remain delightfully cool even as the valleys below swelter. This alpine oasis welcomes visitors from mid-April through mid-November, transforming with the seasons from spring wildflower displays to autumn's golden aspen shows. Winter's heavy snows close the campground from November 15 to April 15, but during the open season, campers enjoy crisp mornings, comfortable afternoons, and star-filled nights where the thin mountain air makes the Milky Way seem close enough to touch.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,300 feet above sea level, Soldier Creek offers a true alpine camping experience. This lofty elevation brings crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that can be 20-30 degrees cooler than the desert floor below. The high altitude creates a unique ecosystem where Douglas firs thrive alongside quaking aspens, and where summer wildflowers bloom weeks later than in the lowlands. Here, the thin mountain air reveals spectacular night skies and provides a refreshing escape from summer's heat.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where nature has crafted its own sculpture garden from granite and time. Massive boulders, smoothed and shaped by countless seasons, create dramatic focal points throughout the campground, while mature Douglas firs stretch skyward and quaking aspens dance in the mountain breeze. The gentle murmur of Soldier Creek provides a soothing soundtrack to your stay. From various vantage points, sweeping vistas unfold across the Aravaipa Valley below, with the distant Galiuro and Winchester mountain ranges painting the horizon in shades of blue and purple.
Geological RegionSoldier Creek sits within the majestic Pinaleño Mountains, a sky island ecosystem that rises dramatically from the surrounding desert. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through weathered granite formations that have been carved and polished over millions of years. The campground's unique position offers commanding views across the Aravaipa Valley to the distant Galiuro and Winchester ranges, creating a panoramic tapestry of Arizona's diverse topography. Here, the ancient granite bedrock tells the story of volcanic forces and erosion, while the surrounding Douglas fir forest represents one of the southernmost stands of these magnificent conifers in North America.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned aside from wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious enough to accommodate mid-size trailers and large family setups.
Sites PrivacyThe sites' layout provides a moderate level of privacy, with granite boulders and trees adding some natural separation.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites surrounded by boulders for privacy and unique ambiance. Arrive early during weekends and holidays for better selection.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight sites surrounded by granite boulders as favorites.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days are allowed per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 persons per site.
Groups
No group camping facilities are present at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop located among Douglas fir trees and granite formations. Parking aprons are irregular and some are eroded.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 15 to November 14; closed during winter due to road conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; walk-up availability only.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability only. Early arrivals recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyRefund policies are not explicitly outlined; reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Soldier Creek Campground offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife exploration, with a trail leading to ice caves and stunning mountain vistas nearby. The natural surroundings are a significant attraction, featuring granite rocks and a creek.
Hiking
Hiking options include access to the upper trailhead of the Grant Goudy Ridge Trail #310, a 6.4-mile trail suitable for foot and horse traffic. Additionally, a trail south of the campground leads to ice caves, which are relatively easy to access and offer unique exploration opportunities.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Wildlife viewing
The campground's setting in a forest grove offers opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds that are attracted by the nearby water sources and vegetation.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not feasible as the campground is closed from November 15 to April 14 due to snow and weather conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are not applicable, as there are no large water bodies within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed unless otherwise stated during fire restrictions. Store firewood properly.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazards"This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques." Forest fire damage nearby. Irregular parking aprons may pose challenges for RVs.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.2 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
Nearest emergency services include Safford Police Department, Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, and the Coronado National Forest Ranger Station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-summer is popular for its cool temperatures.
Trash and recyclingThe campground features bear-proof garbage cans to ensure proper waste disposal and safety in this black bear area.
Proximity to water featuresNearby stream with generally running water.
Common complaints"Adequate but not fantastic" restrooms noted. Complaints of bear activity and lack of water availability. "Some nites where we were the only camper." User reviews report occasional harassment from other campers.
HostCampground hosts are mentioned in reviews but specifics are not provided. Host site is located near the trailhead.
Campground Map
Soldier Creek Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona
Driving directionsFrom Safford, Arizona: Drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366/Swift Trail. Turn right (southwest) onto AZ 366 and drive 29.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left side of the road. From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 east for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for US 191 and turn left toward Safford. Drive 26.3 miles north and turn left on AZ 366/Swift Trail. Drive 29.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left side of the road.
"Although paved and well maintained, Rt. 366 is steep and curvy with switchbacks. The last 7.3 miles are dirt, rocky, rough, and mostly wide single lane with some switchbacks." Vehicles longer than 22 feet are not recommended due to navigational difficulty. Seasonal closures affect road access from November 15 to April 15.Nearby places
Safford (approximately 38 miles away, average travel time: 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Closest supply locations include Safford (groceries, fuel, camping supplies). Additional amenities may be found in Tucson, about 90 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
13 reviews
Soldier Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are generally positive about the campground's scenic beauty, spacious sites, and natural features such as granite boulders and forest groves. However, issues with maintenance, such as restroom cleanliness and lack of water, were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the campground for its beautiful natural setting, cool summer temperatures, and spacious campsites. Several highlighted the granite climbing rocks and the nearby trail to the ice...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, the inadequate maintenance of vault toilets (especially the men's facilities), and issues such as running out of toilet paper. Some users also...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own potable water and toilet paper. It is advisable to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. Additionally, hikers should explore the ice caves trail, which is...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during mid-summer due to cooler temperatures in the mountains. However, it is closed from mid-November to mid-April due to snow, which limits access during winter.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The granite climbing rocks were the main reason we chose this campground." - Scott. "I've been coming here for over 30 years; it's one of my favorite spots." - Melissa Hinrichs. "The ice caves are...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific details are sparse, but many sites are described as spacious, with some better suited for tents due to wet conditions. A double campsite is available for $40 per night.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground has wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, but no other specific accessibility features were mentioned.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences with pets were found.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025