Alto Pit Ohv Campground
4.3074 reviewsPRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S. CORTEZ STREET, Prescott, AZ 86303, USA
Alto Pit Ohv Campground
$14.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
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
Peak season rates for standard non-electric sites range from $14 to $28 per night. A $5 day-use fee applies to visitors not camping, except on Wednesdays when day-use is free.
About this campground
Nestled at the base of the majestic Granite Mountain Wilderness Area, Alto Pit OHV Campground transforms Arizona's rugged terrain into an off-road paradise. This former gravel pit has been reimagined as a thrilling playground for adventure seekers, where 20 miles of diverse trails wind through the Prescott National Forest, beckoning both novice riders testing their skills and seasoned enthusiasts craving their next adrenaline rush. The campground welcomes visitors with 11 thoughtfully arranged sites—10 single and one double occupancy—each featuring its own picnic table and fire ring where stories of the day's adventures come alive under starlit skies. While the amenities embrace simplicity with vault restrooms and gravel driveways perfect for parking your gear, the absence of RV hook-ups and showers encourages a more authentic connection with the wilderness that surrounds you.
Alto Pit OHV Campground caters to a mix of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and a designated double campsite for group use. It is particularly appealing to OHV enthusiasts. A reviewer summarized, 'Nice campground with challenging trails.'
Historical SignificanceFrom industrial past to recreational treasure, Alto Pit tells a story of transformation that echoes throughout Arizona's mining history. What once echoed with the sounds of heavy machinery extracting gravel has evolved into a symphony of revving engines and laughter as families and friends explore the trail system carved from its legacy. The campground serves as your gateway to discovering the area's rich heritage, with nearby Granite Basin Lake offering glimpses into early settler life and the iconic Thumb Butte standing as a natural monument that has guided travelers through these lands for centuries. These landmarks weave together threads of geological wonder, Native American history, and pioneer determination that make this region so captivating.
Weather and SeasonsAt Alto Pit, Mother Nature paints each season with its own distinct palette. Spring and fall bring perfect riding weather, with crisp mornings starting around 38°F that warm to comfortable 60°F afternoons—ideal conditions for exploring the trails without breaking too much of a sweat. Summer transforms the landscape into a warm haven for outdoor enthusiasts, while winter occasionally dusts the granite peaks with snow, creating a dramatic backdrop that may limit access but rewards those who venture here with stunning vistas. The high desert climate means sunshine dominates most days, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll through during monsoon season, adding drama to the already spectacular scenery.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet above sea level, Alto Pit offers a refreshing escape from desert heat while presenting the exhilarating challenges of high-altitude adventure. This elevated position gifts visitors with crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that can be 15-20 degrees cooler than the valley below—a welcome respite during Arizona's warmer months. The thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to your off-road experience, as engines work a bit harder and hearts pump a bit faster, reminding you that you're truly in mountain country. Spectacular vistas unfold in every direction, with the elevation providing commanding views that stretch across the wilderness, making every sunrise and sunset a memorable spectacle worth waking up early or staying up late to witness.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape around Alto Pit reads like a love letter to the American Southwest, where ancient granite monoliths rise from carpets of manzanita and oak, creating a natural obstacle course that thrills riders and hikers alike. Towering ponderosa and limber pines provide patches of cool shade, their vanilla-scented bark a sweet contrast to the earthy sage and wild grasses that paint the understory in shades of green and gold. The star of this natural theater is undoubtedly Granite Mountain itself, its weathered face catching the light differently throughout the day—glowing pink at dawn, stark and magnificent at noon, and bathed in alpenglow as evening approaches. Remote trails disappear into hidden valleys where century-old trees stand sentinel, and unexpected meadows burst with wildflowers after summer rains, creating an ever-changing canvas that ensures no two visits are ever quite the same.
Geological RegionAlto Pit sits within one of Arizona's most geologically fascinating regions, where the ancient bones of the earth lie exposed in spectacular fashion. The Granite Mountain Wilderness Area showcases the raw power of geological forces, with its namesake granite formations telling a story millions of years in the making—massive plutons that cooled deep underground before being thrust skyward and sculpted by wind, water, and time. This rugged terrain creates a diverse ecosystem where ponderosa and limber pines sink their roots into rocky soil, while resilient oaks, vibrant manzanita, and hardy shrubs paint the hillsides in a tapestry of textures. The interplay between exposed bedrock and pockets of richer soil supports a surprising variety of grasses and wildflowers, creating microhabitats that change dramatically within just a few feet of elevation, making every trail an opportunity to discover something new in this geological wonderland.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not detailed in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious and able to accommodate an RV or tow vehicle with an extra vehicle at most sites. However, some driveways may be snug.
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide a good level of privacy, with one reviewer noting, 'Enough space between camps for privacy,' and another stating, 'Campsites are very generously spaced.'
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the main road to avoid traffic noise. Site #3 offers shade and privacy, while site #10 provides easy access to trails.
Best CampsitesSite #3 is highly recommended for its privacy and spacious layout. Sites #7 and #9 are praised for cleanliness and proximity to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days within 30 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 5 people per single campsite and 10 people for the double family campsite.
Groups
The double occupancy campsite allows up to 10 people and four vehicles, making it suitable for small group gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 10 single occupancy campsites and one double occupancy site. 10 sites feature pull-through driveways, and one is a back-in site. All driveways are gravel-covered.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 1 to December 31. Peak season is May 1 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or by phone at 1 (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified, but sites are noted as reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or modified prior to check-in. Changes incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's fee plus a $10 fee. No refunds on the day of check-in.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Alto Pit is primarily an OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) destination, boasting a 20-mile trail system that ranges from beginner to advanced levels. The campground is also suitable for hiking and general camping activities. Visitors frequently highlight the thrill of riding and the scenic backdrop of Granite Mountain. A user review captures the essence: 'The trails around the pit are nice for quick rides close to the campsite. However, you can easily get out to some desolate trails where you don't have to worry about running into other people.'
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are noted but not a primary focus of the area. Some trails are nearby, and the rugged landscape is a draw for hikers. A user review shared, 'Easy access to the hikes in Prescott National Forest.'Biking
Biking is available, though the terrain is noted as being challenging, especially for non-OHV bikes. A reviewer commented, 'The terrain was too rough for regular bikes.'Winter Activities
The campground has been described as accommodating to winter activities, as one user noted camping during spring break with light snow. However, closures due to snow have also been reported.Water Sports
The campground does not support water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings or stoves. Fireworks are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep OHV trails, blind turns, and risks associated with off-road vehicle accidents. Noise from trail activity may affect some campers.
Active alertsSeasonal closures may occur due to snow or heavy weather, as mentioned in user reviews.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Prescott, approximately 5 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - October 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTwo trash dumpsters are available for campers, but there are no recycling facilities. One user noted, 'Pack out your trash.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Granite Basin Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and birdwatching just 15 minutes northeast.
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from OHV trails, issues with camp hosts, and unlevel campsites. Problems related to site reservation processes have been highlighted.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful in several reviews, although occasional issues with host interactions have been noted.
Campground Map
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S. CORTEZ STREET, Prescott, AZ 86303, USA
Driving directionsFrom the courthouse located in downtown City of Prescott, go northwest on Iron Spring Road. Continue 5 miles past the junction of Gale Gardner Way and Iron Springs Road. Alto Pit is on the right side of the road.
Road access is described as accessible from Iron Spring Road northwest of Prescott. Roads are paved until reaching the campground entrance where gravel surfaces are present throughout the campground.Nearby places
Prescott (approx. 5 miles, 10-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Nearby essentials such as groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Prescott, which is approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
74 reviews
Alto Pit Ohv Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a fantastic destination for OHV activities, spacious campsites, and clean facilities. However, some concerns like noise from OHV traffic, lack of potable water, and occasional issues with hosts are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 74 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive points include the well-maintained vault toilets, spacious campsites, friendly hosts, and thrilling OHV trails. Visitors also appreciate the peaceful environment during quieter periods and...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints involve noise from OHV traffic, lack of potable water, occasional unavailability of camp hosts, and some unlevel or rutted campsites.
Based on 74 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing enough water since none is available on-site, making reservations in advance, and being prepared for noise from OHVs.
Based on 74 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground can become crowded during peak OHV seasons and weekends. Winter closures due to snow are also reported.
Based on 74 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The vault bathrooms were super clean and not very smelly and everything was very well maintained.' 2. 'Nice campground with challenging trails. I recommend reserving in advance online.' 3. 'No...
Based on 74 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #10 is praised for its spaciousness and privacy but noted for occasional road noise. Site #3 is highlighted for its shade and proximity to trails.
Based on 74 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not directly mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 74 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific comments on pet policies or experiences have been noted.
Based on 74 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025