Upper Twilight Group Site
4.6712 reviews711 14th Ave., Ste D, Safford, AZ, 85546, USA
Upper Twilight Group Site
$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
$25 per night fee and an additional $5 per vehicle per night fee, paid in cash or check upon arrival at the designated Fee Station.
About this campground
Escape to Upper Twilight Group Site, where towering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral at 7,400 feet in the Pinaleño Mountains. This secluded mountain retreat beckons groups and families seeking refuge from desert heat and crowded campgrounds. Gather around the group campfire ring under star-studded skies, prepare meals on provided grills, and store your provisions safely in bear-proof lockers. With vault toilets, spacious picnic areas, and room for your entire crew, this pristine site offers all the essentials for an unforgettable mountain adventure.
Upper Twilight Group Site exclusively caters to group camping. It is designed to accommodate large parties (up to 50 guests), and its features reflect this focus.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds within the legendary Coronado National Forest, a sprawling 1.78-million-acre tapestry of ecological wonders and centuries-old stories. Just beyond your campsite lies the Mount Graham Wilderness Study Area, where ancient forests whisper tales of indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, and frontier settlers who once traversed these sacred peaks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect climate control at this high-altitude haven, where summer days bring refreshing mountain breezes instead of scorching desert heat. As winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, temperatures dance between crisp 47°F afternoons and frosty 28°F mornings. Early season visitors might witness the magical transition as light rain gives way to gentle snowfall, painting the pines in pristine white.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 7,400 feet, this mountain sanctuary offers a dramatic escape from the world below. Here, where eagles soar and clouds drift past your tent, the thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and promises of adventure. The elevated setting rewards visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and panoramic vistas that stretch across the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own private forest sanctuary where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark and emerald canopy creating nature's perfect campsite. This jewel of the Pinaleño Mountains offers a refreshing contrast to the Sonoran Desert below, where temperatures can soar 20-30 degrees higher. Wake to birdsong echoing through the forest and fall asleep to the gentle whisper of wind through pine needles.
Geological RegionWelcome to one of Arizona's spectacular 'sky islands' - the remarkable Pinaleño Mountains rise like a forested oasis from the surrounding desert sea. This ecological marvel within Coronado National Forest showcases nature's incredible diversity, climbing from 3,000 to 10,720 feet and hosting everything from desert cacti to alpine meadows. Each elevation tells its own story, creating a vertical journey through multiple life zones where desert meets forest in stunning biological harmony.
Campsite details
Accessibility"Accessible by car/minivan." Some reviews emphasize ease of access to the site and its facilities, making it suitable for groups and families.
Sites SizeThe site can accommodate up to 50 guests and parking for six vehicles, tailored for large group camping.
Sites PrivacyThe description does not address specific levels of privacy. However, comments like "Great location for events and camping" suggest it is suitable for group gatherings rather than secluded camping.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest 'great tent pads with lots of space' and note easy car/minivan access.
Best CampsitesThis campground accommodates one large group site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 50 guests allowed at this single group site.
Groups
The site is suitable for a group of up to 50 guests, with parking for up to six vehicles. Additional portable/self-contained toilets are required for groups exceeding 30 people (one per 15 guests).
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site layout with parking spaces for up to six vehicles, picnic tables, and a group campfire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 15 through December 31 with reservations available year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome user reviews mention availability for walk-up camping, but generally reservations are required. Walk-up spots are limited and dependent on cancellations or vacancies.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee is deducted along with reservation fees if paid during booking. Late cancellations (fewer than 14 days before check-in) incur forfeiture of the first night's 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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Upper Twilight Group Site offers a range of activities suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. "The campground lies along the Swift Trail Scenic Drive, which takes visitors from the Sonoran Desert at 2,900 feet to alpine meadows and forest on the 9,000+ foot ridges of the Pinaleño Range." Key activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, biking, and fishing, creating a multi-faceted recreational experience.
Hiking
"The Swift Trail provides access to a number of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails." User reviews highlight the scenic nature walks accessible from the site, such as a 2.4-mile route covering breathtaking views and diverse bird species.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Riggs Lake, which is "stocked with trout by Arizona Game & Fish." This activity is explicitly recommended as part of day trips accessible from Upper Twilight.Biking
"Mountain biking trails" are accessible along the Swift Trail, providing opportunities for cyclists to explore the terrain.Wildlife viewing
"The area is well-known for birding and wildlife watching." User reviews affirm this, with mentions of seeing 31 bird species and multiple squirrel types during nature walks.Winter Activities
"Good sled spots" are mentioned in user reviews for visits after snowfall, indicating opportunities for sledding and other winter recreation.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned as activities available at the site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated rings; fires must be extinguished before leaving and unattended fires are prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife activity (requiring food storage in bear-proof lockers), narrow switchbacks on access roads, and high elevation travel considerations.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.8 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
Emergency services located in the town of Safford (approximately 45 minutes away), including a ranger station open Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15 to November 14 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are provided, but visitors are encouraged to pack out garbage that does not fit in the bins to maintain safety and cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresRiggs Lake is accessible by a day trip, stocked with trout by Arizona Game & Fish.
Common complaintsNo drinking water available at the site; visitors must bring their own. Seasonal access and fire conditions may impact usability.
HostRanger station located in Safford; open Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm. No onsite host information available.
Campground Map
711 14th Ave., Ste 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 14.5 miles to the Twilight Campground entrance (MM 128.4), following the road for 1 mile to the Upper Twilight Group Site. From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 East for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for State Route 191, and turn left toward Safford. Drive 26.3 miles north and turn left on State Route 366/Swift Trail. Continue for 14.5 miles to the Twilight Campground entrance (MM 128.4), following the road for 1 mile to the Upper Twilight Group Site.
Accessible via paved roads, but narrow switchbacks on AZ 366 limit trailers to less than 22 feet and total vehicle length to less than 40 feet.Nearby places
Safford (45-minute drive, approximately 20 miles).
Nearby supplies
Safford provides access to groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.7
12 reviews
Upper Twilight Group Site is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are generally positive, praising the site's beauty, accessibility, and suitability for family gatherings. Many users highlight the natural environment and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
"Great camping. Clean area. Will definitely be back." "Beautiful camp ground." "Beautiful place to camp. Well be camping there again." "Great location for events and camping." "What a beautiful place...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints specifically addressing issues or concerns are not documented in the provided reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest taking advantage of the scenic road and wildlife watching opportunities. A user recommends geocaching in the area and emphasizes the accessibility by car/minivan.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter visits are popular due to snow-related activities such as sledding. Summer visits are encouraged for escaping the desert heat and enjoying pleasant temperatures in the mountains.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We were able to drive up and camp with no reservations. We were so lucky, the last party left just before we arrived. Great spot for families and groups, or if you have dogs that need to roam." "My...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews generally favor the Upper Twilight Group Site for family and group camping. "Accessible by car/minivan, beautiful area."
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
"Accessible by car/minivan." User feedback highlights easy access and suitability for family or group visits, emphasizing space for kids to explore and play.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Great spot for families and groups, or if you have dogs that need to roam." Pets are permitted, and the site appears to be dog-friendly based on user experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025