Hazlett Hollow Campground
4.4414 reviewsHazlett Hollow Campground, Crown King, Arizona, 86343
Hazlett Hollow Campground
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
The campground charges $10 per night for single-site overnight use. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on the campsite they physically occupy. Payment must be made in cash or check.
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About this campground
Step back in time at Hazlett Hollow Campground, where 1930s craftsmanship meets modern adventure in the heart of the southern Bradshaw Mountains. This semi-primitive gem in the Horsethief Basin Area beckons with its historic stone architecture, lovingly crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression. Each of the 15 campsites tells its own story, complete with original picnic tables, grills, and unique three-sided wooden shelters with concrete floors—rustic refuges that have protected countless adventurers from mountain storms while maintaining that authentic wilderness connection.
Hazlett Hollow Campground offers a more rustic camping experience with options for tent camping and limited accommodations for RVs. Primitive shelters are available at each site.
Historical SignificanceEvery stone wall and weathered walkway at Hazlett Hollow whispers stories from the 1930s, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved this camping sanctuary from raw wilderness. Their legacy of hand-laid stonework stands as a testament to American resilience during hard times. Just down the mountain, the rollicking ghost town of Crown King keeps the Old West alive with authentic saloons where miners once celebrated gold strikes, and a general store that's been serving adventurers since the boom days.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of mountain weather at Hazlett Hollow, where crisp mornings can greet you with temperatures as low as 28°F in shoulder seasons, while summer afternoons warm to a comfortable 88°F. Early spring and late fall adventurers should pack for winter's touch, as snowflakes and rain showers often dance through the pines. Mid-summer transforms the campground into a cool mountain escape, perfect for fleeing the desert heat below.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Hazlett Hollow offers a refreshing escape to thin mountain air and naturally air-conditioned nights. This elevation creates a unique microclimate where desert dwellers can experience true mountain camping, complete with cool breezes that whisper through the pines and crystal-clear night skies that seem close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Ponderosa pines create a living cathedral at Hazlett Hollow, their vanilla-scented bark and whispering needles providing nature's own aromatherapy. The grassy understory and soft pine needle carpet invite barefoot morning walks, while the surrounding landscape evokes the gentle beauty of the Appalachian Mountains transplanted to Arizona. Through breaks in the forest canopy, catch glimpses of Horsethief Lake's sapphire waters and the rolling forested mountains that stretch to the horizon.
Geological RegionThe southern Bradshaw Mountains cradle Hazlett Hollow in a landscape where ancient geology meets vibrant ecology. This corner of the Horsethief Basin Area showcases nature's artistry through dramatic rocky outcroppings, dense Ponderosa pine forests, and hidden mountain lakes. The semi-primitive setting preserves the authentic wilderness experience while revealing the geological forces that shaped these mountains over millions of years, creating a playground for both casual campers and serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground features an accessible vault toilet. Some campsites may be wheelchair-friendly, as suggested by user reviews describing accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites are semi-primitive and may not accommodate large groups comfortably. Each site includes a small wooden shelter that can house a 3-person tent or smaller.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as somewhat secluded, but some campers noted that the small size of the sites can limit privacy.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites closer to the vault toilets for easier access or those with better views of the lake. Use the lean-to shelters for additional weather protection.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Each site is designed for 5 people
- a maximum of 10 is allowed only to accommodate a single large family.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned as an option in either official sources or user reviews.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 15 sites organized in a loop, each with a lean-to shelter. Parking is available on-site for one vehicle towing a camper plus an additional vehicle.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 1 to October 31. Dates may vary based on snowfall.
Reservation PlatformsReservations may not be required. Payment is made on-site with cash or check.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites appear to be first-come, first-served. Specific walk-up details are not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may not be available, and all campers are asked to pack out everything they bring. No explicit cancellation policy is provided.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers limited recreational activities. It is located near Horsethief Lake, which allows for fishing and boating with electric motors. Hiking trails are not available in the immediate vicinity, but the area is described as scenic for nature observation.
Fishing
Horsethief Lake offers fishing opportunities, with the lake stocked with bass, catfish, and Redear Sunfish.Boating
Boating is permitted, but only electric motors are allowed. There are no boat ramps, and carry-down access is not supported.Winter Activities
The seasonal closure (May 1 - October 31) limits winter recreation opportunities.Water Sports
Water sports are limited to non-motorized boating and fishing. Power boats with electric motors are allowed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must never be left unattended, and campers are urged to exercise caution. Specific rules or restrictions are not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsRough road access requires caution, and high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Wildlife such as bears may be present, so proper food storage is essential. Seasonal snow and rain may impact accessibility.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Crown King has a general store and limited services, including basic groceries and gasoline. Larger emergency services, such as hospitals and police, would require travel back to the nearest larger towns such as Mayer or Prescott.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 31 (seasonal operation).
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash, as no garbage or recycling services are provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Horsethief Lake, a 3.5-acre lake stocked with bass, catfish, and sunfish. The lake allows non-motorized boats and those with electric motors.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints mention the rough and primitive road conditions leading to the campground. Some campers have noted water spigots not functioning and the small size of campsites for larger groups or tents.
Campground Map
Hazlett Hollow Campground, Crown King, Arizona, 86343
Driving directionsFrom Prescott, take Main St. through Mayer east to the junction with Antelope Creek Road. Drive southeast for 9 miles to Cordes, then take Forest Rd. 259 to Crown King. From Crown King, take FR 259A south for 0.5 miles to the junction with FR 52, and drive southeast for 6 miles to the campground. For those approaching from I-17, take the Bumble Bee exit and follow the dirt road through FR 259 to Crown King, then FR 259A and FR 52 to the campground. The road is dirt, primitive, and high-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended.
The road to the campground is unimproved, single-lane, rocky, and primitive. High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. Portions of the access road are very rough and are not recommended for sedans. Access requires navigating over 20 miles of dirt roads, some of which are single-lane.Nearby places
Crown King (6 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Mayer (~25 miles, approximately 1 hour), Prescott (~50 miles, approximately 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
The general store in Crown King (6 miles away) provides limited groceries, supplies, and gasoline. For more extensive supplies, travelers may need to visit Mayer or Prescott.
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Hazlett Hollow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's rustic beauty and historical charm. The stonework by the CCC from the 1930s and the wooden shelters are frequently praised. However, access roads are often criticized for being rough and requiring high-clearance vehicles, which may deter some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the historical charm, clean facilities, and unique three-sided shelters. Some users enjoyed the secluded and tranquil environment, describing it as ideal for a quiet...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the small size of campsites, rough access roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, and the lack of running water in spigots despite being advertised. Some reviewers also...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a high-clearance vehicle, checking road conditions beforehand, and preparing for a rustic camping experience with minimal amenities. Visitors also advise bringing water as...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is best visited during its open season (May 1 - October 31). Users note that snow may close access roads earlier in the season, but summer offers pleasant...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The road from Crown King was not bad, but I wouldn’t attempt without a high-clearance 4x4." – Frank Farina
"Nice 3-sided shelters, fire pit, grill, picnic table, water, and restroom." – Exe Sr
"The...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites are not explicitly highlighted in reviews, but the small size of campsites is mentioned repeatedly. One review noted that a 6-person tent could not fit comfortably in the shelters.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
An accessible vault toilet is available, but other accessibility features are not well-documented. Some sites may have accessible paths, based on user comments.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One user mentioned that their dogs enjoyed the trip, but no specific pet policies or amenities are noted in the reviews.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025