Stockton Pass
4.7312 reviews711 14th Avenue, Suite D, Safford, AZ, 85546, USA
Stockton Pass
$25.00 - $25.00 / 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$25.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
This site has a $25 per night fee and a $5 per vehicle per night fee. The nightly rate is paid through recreation.gov, while the per vehicle fee is paid upon arrival by cash or check.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged embrace of southeastern Arizona's Pinaleño Mountains, Stockton Pass Campground offers an authentic high desert escape where solitude meets adventure. This hidden gem, bearing the legacy of 'Old Man Stockton,' welcomes groups seeking respite from the crowds, with spacious sites accommodating up to 30 people. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wild landscape, featuring vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, pedestal grills for evening cookouts, and bear-proof trash containers that remind visitors they're sharing this spectacular terrain with its original inhabitants.
Stockton Pass provides both reservable group camping and first-come, first-served individual campsites.
Historical SignificanceThe spirit of the Old West lives on at Stockton Pass, where the ghost of 'Old Man Stockton' seems to watch over the land he once ranched in the 1870s. Adventure seekers can follow trails that lead to the infamous Power's Family Cabin, a weathered structure that stands as a silent witness to one of Arizona's most dramatic chapters—a deadly shootout and manhunt in the early 1900s that captivated the territory and became the stuff of legend. These historic pathways offer more than scenic views; they're portals to Arizona's untamed past.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 5,600 feet, Stockton Pass delivers a refreshing surprise to those expecting typical Arizona heat. Summer afternoons bring dramatic thunderstorms that transform the landscape with rushing waters and the earthy scent of rain-soaked desert soil. As autumn paints the oak woodlands in warm hues, temperatures become ideal for hiking and stargazing. Even winter camping remains comfortable here, where the elevation creates a perfect microclimate—cool enough to escape the desert floor's intensity, yet mild enough to enjoy outdoor adventures year-round.
ElevationRising 5,600 feet above sea level, Stockton Pass Campground occupies a sweet spot in Arizona's vertical landscape. This elevation creates a remarkable climate refuge where temperatures run 15-20 degrees cooler than the scorching valleys below. Here, crisp morning air greets early risers, afternoon breezes whisper through the oaks, and evening temperatures invite lingering around the campfire long after desert dwellers have retreated indoors.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere desert grasslands meet oak woodlands, Stockton Pass Campground sits at nature's crossroads, creating a biodiversity hotspot that delights wildlife enthusiasts. Black bears amble through the shadows, deer graze in meadow clearings, and elusive mountain lions patrol their ancient territories. Birdwatchers find paradise here, with species ranging from tiny hummingbirds to soaring raptors. The panoramic vistas stretch endlessly—rolling valleys give way to distant mountain ranges, while closer views reveal the intricate beauty of gnarled oaks and flowering desert plants that paint the landscape in unexpected colors.
Geological RegionThe Pinaleño Mountains rise like ancient sentinels from the Sonoran Desert floor, creating a unique sky island ecosystem within the Coronado National Forest. This geological marvel showcases nature's incredible diversity, where multiple biological communities collide and flourish. Desert grasslands carpet the lower slopes before yielding to oak woodlands that provide crucial corridors for wildlife movement. This remarkable transition zone represents millions of years of geological forces at work, resulting in one of Arizona's most ecologically significant landscapes where visitors can experience multiple ecosystems within a single memorable journey.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGroups of up to 30 people can camp at the designated group area, but no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were mentioned.
Sites SizeThe group camping area accommodates up to 30 people. Individual sites sizes are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews and authoritative sources suggest the campground is generally quiet and secluded, but some reviews mentioned disruptions due to day visitors using the facilities.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup sites are suitable for large gatherings. For privacy, consider avoiding weekends or peak times when locals may use facilities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 p.m.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 30 people allowed in the group site.
Groups
The group camping area accommodates up to 30 people and three vehicles. Additional portable toilets are required for groups exceeding this size.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of one group camping area with additional first-come, first-served sites located nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservation season operates from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via their app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySeveral first-come, first-served individual sites are located nearby and require separate payment.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the cancellation fee. Changes to reservation dates outside the original stay incur a $10 change 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
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Stockton Pass offers several recreational activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The Shake Trail #309 is a notable hiking route that takes visitors through the high desert and offers a connection to higher elevation trails. The area is also suitable for scenic drives and is inviting for afternoon picnics.
Hiking
The Shake Trail #309 starts at the campground and provides access to high desert landscapes and connects to the Swift Trail in the Pinaleño Mountains. User reviews have not provided additional specifics on the difficulty level or popularity of this trail.Wildlife viewing
Stockton Pass is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, black bears, and mountain lions, as mentioned in authoritative sources. User reviews do not elaborate further.Winter Activities
Camping is available year-round, but the area experiences cooler temperatures in the summer and remains accessible in fall and winter.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as activities available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must be completely extinguished before leaving. Only dead-and-downed trees and shrubs may be collected for firewood; tree cutting is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife in the area includes black bears and mountain lions. Visitors should securely store food and garbage to avoid attracting animals.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Safford Ranger Station, open Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm; approximately 1-hour drive.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash cans are available at the site for waste disposal. Visitors are instructed to pack out their trash if it exceeds the capacity of on-site bins.
Common complaintsUser reviews note that locals frequently use the bathroom facilities and cause disturbances with off-road vehicles. Noise, dust, and lack of privacy are recurring concerns.
HostA campground host named Joe has been mentioned in reviews as helpful and welcoming.
Campground Map
711 14th Avenue, Suite D, Safford, AZ, 85546, USA
Driving directionsFrom Safford, Arizona: Take State Route 191 south for 17 miles. Turn right onto State Route 266 and continue 12 miles to the Stockton Pass Campground (MM 116.5) on the right. The campground is past the second cattle guard. From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 East for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for State Route 191, and turn left toward Safford. Drive 17 miles north and turn left on State Route 266. Continue 12 miles to the Stockton Pass Campground (MM 116.5) on the right. The campground is past the second cattle guard.
State Route 191 and State Route 266 provide paved access to Stockton Pass Campground. Road access may include deep ruts in certain areas as noted by user reviews, but vehicles can navigate around these.Nearby places
Safford (approximately 1 hour drive, ~29 miles)
Nearby supplies
Safford offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials
approximately 1-hour drive.
Camper Reviews
4.7
12 reviews
Stockton Pass is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Stockton Pass generally highlight its scenic beauty, quiet environment, and suitability for family picnics and camping. Some users raised concerns about disruptions from day visitors and local vehicles using the site.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the scenic beauty of the location, the quiet environment, and the suitability for family gatherings. One review mentions, 'Beautiful, quiet and perfect to camp a night.'...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several reviewers noted disturbances caused by day visitors using the bathrooms and picnic tables intended for reserved group camping areas. One user remarked, 'The biggest negative is that outside...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing drinking water as none is provided on-site and securing food to avoid wildlife disturbances. Additionally, it's advised to remain cautious of wildlife and ensure fires are...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the area is accessible and enjoyable year-round, but summer can bring soaring temperatures and muddy conditions due to rainstorms.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful, quiet and perfect to camp a night.'
2. 'Nice place to hang out with family for a picnic, very quiet.'
3. 'Pretty site with lots of room for a large group of people.'
4. 'This place is...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews for the Stockton Pass group site highlighted its spaciousness but noted disturbances from locals and day-trippers. One user mentioned, 'Pretty site with lots of room for a large...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Specific feedback related to pets was not included in the user reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025