Upper Arcadia
4.6518 reviews711 14th Avenue, Suite D, Safford, AZ 85546, USA
Upper Arcadia
$25.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
The site charges $25 per night with an additional $5 per vehicle per night fee collected upon arrival. Group standard area campsite fees are $25 per night. Standard individual sites cost $30 per night during peak season.
About this campground
Escape the desert heat and discover Upper Arcadia Campground, a mountain sanctuary perched high in southeastern Arizona's sky islands. This serene retreat beckons nature enthusiasts with world-class birding opportunities, miles of hiking trails, and access to the breathtaking Swift Trail scenic byway. Modern amenities including vault toilets, seasonal drinking water, picnic tables, and grills ensure comfort while you immerse yourself in the wilderness.
Upper Arcadia offers options for both individual and group camping, including standard nonelectric sites and a group camping area. Primitive camping features like bear-proof lockers and vault toilets enhance the experience.
Historical SignificanceUpper Arcadia sits within the storied Coronado National Forest, adjacent to the Mount Graham Wilderness Study Area – a landscape steeped in centuries of human history and ecological wonder. This region has long served as a refuge for diverse cultures and wildlife, from ancient peoples to modern conservationists who recognize its irreplaceable biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing embrace of mountain air in Upper Arcadia's cool, dry climate, where gentle breezes whisper through the pines. While the campground welcomes visitors year-round, each season brings its own character – from crisp autumn mornings to snow-dusted winter landscapes that may temporarily close access roads. Summer offers respite from valley heat, though mountain winds can pick up unexpectedly, adding to the wild atmosphere.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,700 feet above sea level, Upper Arcadia offers a dramatic temperature drop from the Sonoran Desert below – often 20-30 degrees cooler – creating a natural air-conditioned retreat where mountain meadows replace cacti and pine-scented breezes replace desert heat.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral at 6,700 feet, their vanilla-scented bark mingling with the earthy aroma of Gambel oaks and Arizona walnuts. From your campsite, witness the spectacular drama of the Pinaleño Range unfolding before you, while glimpses through the forest canopy reveal the vast Sonoran Desert spreading like a golden sea far below.
Geological RegionUpper Arcadia crowns one of Arizona's remarkable 'sky islands' – the Pinaleño Mountain Range in Coronado National Forest. These isolated mountain peaks rise like verdant islands from the desert sea, creating unique biological laboratories where species from different climates converge. At 6,700 feet, the campground occupies a sweet spot where ponderosa pines, Gambel oaks, and Arizona walnuts thrive in this elevated ecosystem, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of North America's most fascinating geological phenomena.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as large by one reviewer. Another noted that most campsites are on a hill, making it hard to find level ground for large tents.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as secluded by one user review; however, another mentioned it is often crowded.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid bringing trailers longer than 22 feet due to narrow switchbacks. Sites on hills may not be ideal for large tents.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites are rated as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of up to 75 people are allowed in the group camping area.
Groups
The group camping area can accommodate up to 75 people and a maximum of 8 vehicles. Additional portable toilets are required for groups exceeding 30 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground sites are small and can be crowded, with some located on hills. The layout includes picnic tables and trash bins.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates year-round, with peak season lasting from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come, first-served sites are available nearby, but these must be paid for separately.
Cancellation PolicyStandard $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellation results in forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee and the $10 fee. Reservations can be changed with a $10 fee for date modifications, but no refunds for scan-and-pay sites.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Upper Arcadia offers access to various recreational activities including hiking, birding, picnicking, fishing, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The Swift Trail Scenic Drive provides breathtaking views and connects visitors to other attractions like Riggs Lake and Columbine Visitors Center. "Loved this place. Very secluded. Lots of beautiful trees," and "Awesome place!" reflect user enthusiasm for the scenic and accessible recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The Arcadia Trail #328 starts at the campground and leads to Shannon Campground. A one-mile spur off the trail leads to the top of Heliograph Peak, offering panoramic views. Hiking trails vary in difficulty and are popular among users.Fishing
Fishing is available at Riggs Lake, which is stocked with trout by Arizona Game & Fish. No specific fishing opportunities are mentioned within the campground itself.Biking
The Swift Trail provides mountain biking opportunities with scenic views and challenging terrain.Wildlife viewing
The campground is known for wildlife and birding due to its diverse habitat, as noted in the authoritative content. "Wildfires destroyed parts of this area but it is still absolutely pristine with beauty all around," mentioned a user review.Winter Activities
Winter visits are impacted by snow, as noted in user reviews regarding snowed-in conditions during winter months.Water Sports
No specific non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are mentioned in the sources.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires must be completely extinguished, and tree cutting is prohibited. Firewood is limited to dead-and-downed materials.
- Quiet hours are observed, but exact times are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include high elevation effects, strong winds, wildlife encounters, and icy road conditions during winter.
Active alertsNo active alerts currently documented.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.6 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
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Safford, Arizona, which is approximately 30 minutes away. This includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans and bear-proof food lockers are provided for safety and convenience. Recycling bins are available according to one user review.
Proximity to water featuresA creek below the campground is accessible via a trail.
Common complaintsReviews mention crowded campsites, poor restroom maintenance, limited firewood, and steep terrain making it difficult for tents.
HostHosts are described as helpful in reviews, ensuring facilities are well-maintained.
Campground Map
711 14th Avenue, Suite D, Safford, AZ 85546, USA
Driving directionsFrom Safford, Arizona: Take State Route 191 south for 6 miles. Turn right onto State Route 366/Swift Trail and travel 11.5 miles to the Arcadia Campground entrance (MM 125.5), then take the next right turn to access Upper Arcadia. From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 East for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for State Route 191, turn left toward Safford, drive 26.3 miles north and turn left on State Route 366/Swift Trail, continue for 11.5 miles to the Arcadia Campground entrance (MM 125.5), and take the next right turn to access Upper Arcadia.
Road access to Upper Arcadia can be challenging. The route includes narrow switchbacks on State Route 366 (Swift Trail), making it difficult for vehicles longer than 40 feet or trailers over 22 feet. This road is closed during winter months.Nearby places
Safford: 30 minutes (approx. 17.5 miles via SR 191). Tucson: approximately 90 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, can be obtained in Safford, AZ, which is a 30-minute drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
18 reviews
Upper Arcadia is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, secluded environment, and clean facilities. However, concerns regarding restroom cleanliness and campsite slopes are noted. Seasonal factors such as wind and snow also influence user experiences.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's natural beauty, large shaded sites, and clean environment. "Beautiful area...clean bathrooms and plenty of trash bins" and "Nice camp stop but too hot in the summer"...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include restroom maintenance, sloped campsites, and seasonal challenges like snow and extreme winds. "Restrooms need more attention paid to them" and "most campsites are on a hill"...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing water due to seasonal availability, securing food in bear-proof lockers, and preparing for sloped campsites. "Bring your own water!" is a common sentiment.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the campground is best visited in spring and fall for favorable weather conditions and accessibility. Winter visits face snowed-in roads and limited access, while summer reviews...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"First, if you have a long vehicle or are towing, you might NOT want to head up the Coronado Nat'l Forest road. It's extremely tight, with a lot of switchbacks." "Wildfires destroyed parts of this...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some users mention specific site characteristics, such as campsite slopes affecting tent placement and amenities like bear-proof lockers and recycling bins.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews or features are mentioned.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets or pet-related policies are mentioned.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025