Potato Patch Campground
4.56244 reviewsPRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, VERDE RANGER DISTRICT, 300 EAST HIGHWAY 260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, USA
Potato Patch Campground
$14.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary based on site type and season. Electric sites cost $24 during peak season, non-electric sites range from $14 to $36.
About this campground
Perched high in the Prescott National Forest at 7,200 feet, Potato Patch Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking refuge beneath towering ponderosa pines. This mountain sanctuary seamlessly blends the serenity of old-growth forest camping with convenient access to premier hiking trails and fascinating historical sites, creating an ideal basecamp for your Arizona highland adventures.
Potato Patch Campground offers a mix of camping options, catering to both tent campers and RV users. Loop A is tailored for tents and smaller setups, while Loop B provides sites with 30-amp electrical hookups for RVs.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure sits at the crossroads of Arizona's rich past. A short drive leads to the copper mining ghost town of Jerome State Historic Park, where Victorian-era buildings cling dramatically to Cleopatra Hill. Nearby Tuzigoot National Monument reveals the mysteries of the ancient Sinagua people, whose pueblo ruins have stood sentinel over the Verde Valley for nearly a thousand years.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this high-elevation retreat into a cool mountain oasis, where daytime temperatures hover around a comfortable 82°F before dropping to crisp, sleeping-bag-friendly 58°F nights. The elevation brings dramatic seasonal changes, with winter occasionally dusting the pines with snow, creating a completely different camping experience for those brave enough to venture up the mountain during colder months.
ElevationAt 7,200 feet above sea level, this mountain-top sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from Arizona's desert heat. The thin mountain air carries the vanilla scent of ponderosa bark and delivers naturally air-conditioned summer nights that make for perfect sleeping weather under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of ponderosa pines where dappled sunlight filters through ancient branches. The acclaimed Yeager Canyon Trail #28 and Woodchute Trail #102 begin their journey nearby, winding through stands of old-growth forest and meadows bursting with seasonal wildflowers. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent encounters with elk, deer, and diverse bird species, while anglers can cast their lines in the peaceful waters of nearby Mingus Lake.
Geological RegionThis remarkable campground crowns the ancient volcanic landscapes of Mingus Mountain, where millions of years of geological drama have sculpted a high-country paradise. The surrounding Prescott National Forest showcases nature's artistry through weathered rock formations and pine-clad ridges, with the nearby Woodchute Wilderness offering glimpses into Arizona's wild heart. From this 7,200-foot perch, the landscape tells the story of volcanic upheavals and erosion that created today's stunning mountain terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are accessible campsites with additional pedestal grills. The paved parking areas and proximity to restrooms further enhance accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally small to medium, with some sites able to accommodate larger setups. "If you had any size of a tent larger than a 10x10, it would not fit in the camping spots," mentioned a reviewer.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with Loop A offering more spacious and shaded sites compared to the closer, less private sites in Loop B. 'The sites are a little close together,' is a common sentiment.
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLoop B sites are suitable for RVs due to electrical hookups, while Loop A offers more shade and space for tents.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated campsites include A28 for its shade and quiet, and B06 for its forest views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Stay maximum is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutLoop A provides shaded sites ideal for tent camping, while Loop B caters to RVs with electrical hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 through October 31 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov and the contact center (877-444-6777).
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available, but reservations are highly recommended during peak season to ensure availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the date of arrival with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. Changes can be made ahead of arrival, subject to additional fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of recreational activities is available at Potato Patch Campground. Popular activities include hiking on nearby trails, wildlife viewing, scenic driving, and fishing at Mingus Lake. The campground's proximity to trails like Yeager Canyon Trail #28 and Woodchute Trail #102 provides access to the Woodchute Wilderness area, offering rewarding hikes and stunning views. The Great Western Trail segment runs adjacent to the campground, and the Verde River below offers opportunities for kayaking and birdwatching. Some visitors also enjoyed stargazing due to the area's elevation and minimal light pollution.
Hiking
Numerous hiking opportunities are available, including the nearby Yeager Canyon Trail #28 and Woodchute Trail #102. These trails lead through the Woodchute Wilderness, providing breathtaking views from Woodchute Mountain. 'There's a nice hike "Woodchute" Trail that takes you to the top of the mountain and offers a 360 view,' noted a visitor.Fishing
Fishing is available at Mingus Lake, located just across the highway. 'Mingus Lake is stocked for fishing,' according to the official description.Boating
Opportunities for kayaking and rafting are available at the Verde River in the valley below.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with visitors frequently spotting deer and hearing coyotes howling in the distance. 'So many deer just walking by and tons of coyotes in the distance howling give that western feel for sure,' noted a camper.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were highlighted in the description.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and rafting are available at the Verde River, located in the valley below the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but may be restricted during dry conditions. Fireworks are always prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (bears and tarantulas), steep access roads, and occasional heavy rainfall.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.5 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
Closest emergency services include Verde Valley Medical Center in Cottonwood (15 miles, approximately 20 min), Jerome Fire Department (5 miles, 10 min), and local police services in Cottonwood.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, including dumpsters, though some reviewers noted concerns about bear safety due to open dumpster lids.
Proximity to water featuresMingus Lake is located nearby for fishing, and the Verde River is accessible for kayaking and bird-watching.
Common complaintsComplaints include road noise from Hwy 89A, sites being tightly spaced, and generators disrupting the quiet environment.
HostHosts Ken and Dodie are frequently praised for their friendliness and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, VERDE RANGER DISTRICT, 300 EAST HIGHWAY 260, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, USA
Driving directionsFrom Prescott, take U.S. Highway 89 north past Granite Dells, turn right on Hwy 89A and travel approximately 20 miles to the top of Mingus Mountain on steep, mountainous grade. Potato Patch Campground entrance will be to your left (across from the Summit Picnic Area) on Forest Road 106. From the Verde Ranger Station in Camp Verde, travel approximately 20 miles northwest on Hwy 260 (toward Cottonwood). Turn left on Hwy 89A. Stay on Hwy 89A (watch for a second left turn), then follow the paved and winding mountain road through the town of Jerome and up to the summit on Mingus Mountain. The turn-off to Potato Patch is on the right, across from the Summit Picnic Area.
Road access to Potato Patch Campground is paved but challenging due to steep grades and tight hairpin turns, especially on Hwy 89A through Jerome. Vehicles with trailers or RVs are advised to approach from Prescott or Prescott Valley to avoid difficulties.Nearby places
Jerome (5 miles, 10 min), Clarkdale (9 miles, 15 min), Cottonwood (9.5 miles, 15 min), Prescott Valley (20 miles, 30 min), Prescott (25 miles, 40 min)
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies for groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be found in Jerome (5 miles, 10 min) and Cottonwood (9.5 miles, 15 min).
Camper Reviews
4.6
244 reviews
Potato Patch Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the campground receives high praise for cleanliness, friendly hosts, and its forested setting. Many visitors highlighted the well-maintained facilities and the serene atmosphere.
Review Summaries
Based on 244 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praised the clean composting toilets, friendly and helpful camp hosts, and the peaceful environment. The proximity to hiking trails and the scenic forest setting were also...
Based on 244 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include the close proximity of campsites, generator noise from RVs, and occasional issues with pests such as moths. Some reviewers also mentioned traffic noise from the nearby highway.
Based on 244 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own firewood as it is not sold on-site. Consider choosing a site in Loop A for more privacy and shade. Be cautious of the steep and winding access road, especially with larger vehicles.
Based on 244 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers are particularly popular due to the campground's cool, elevated location. The campground can be crowded during weekends and holidays. Winter activity is minimal due to seasonal closures.
Based on 244 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms are top-notch, no flies or bugs and very clean." "The composting toilets were nice and didn’t stink at all." "So many deer just walking by and tons of coyotes in the distance howling...
Based on 244 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 22 is described as perfect for a large tent and is highly recommended. Sites in Loop A are noted for being more spacious and private compared to Loop B.
Based on 244 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites with pedestal grills are noted. Paved parking areas and nearby restrooms enhance accessibility.
Based on 244 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times. Some visitors appreciated the pet-friendly environment.
Based on 244 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025