Upper Wolf Creek Group

Star4.48
13 reviews
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S CORTEZ ST, PRESCOTT, AZ 86301, USA
Upper Wolf Creek Group
$75.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group site fees range from $75 for 1-50 people to $150 for 51-100 people per night. Reservation fees include $8 (online or app), $9 (contact center),...
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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$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$150.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
1 (877) 444-6777

About this campground

Escape to Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, where towering pines create a natural cathedral for your next gathering. Just 8 miles from historic Prescott, this forest sanctuary welcomes groups of up to 100 people into its peaceful embrace. Picture your crew spreading out across spacious sites, setting up volleyball games on the open meadow, or gathering around for evening horseshoe tournaments. As one satisfied visitor, Morgan L, shared: "The campground is very nice. We had a group of about 15 and got the group site to have lots of room and privacy." Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout retreat, or celebration with friends, this secluded haven offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness solitude.
Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping, accommodating large groups with tent or RV setups. It does not offer cabin lodging or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Upper Wolf Creek places you at the doorstep of Arizona's rich frontier heritage. The nearby town of Prescott, once the territorial capital, beckons with its Victorian charm and Wild West stories. Take a short drive to discover the historic Groom Creek Schoolhouse, now a charming day-use picnic area where the echoes of one-room schoolhouse days still linger among the pines. This region has long been a gathering place – from Native American peoples who first called these mountains home, to miners and ranchers who shaped the Old West, to modern adventurers seeking respite in these timeless forests.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Upper Wolf Creek brings nature's own air conditioning, with delightful daytime temperatures hovering between 75-82°F – perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. From late June through mid-September, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms roll across the mountains, painting the sky with spectacular clouds and refreshing the forest with brief showers. But don't let those warm days fool you – mountain nights have their own personality. As visitor Morgan L discovered: "Weather during the day was perfect! Night time tho was surprisingly cold." Evening temperatures can plummet to a crisp 44°F, even when forecasts predict a mild 58°F, so pack those extra layers and prepare for cozy campfire evenings under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Upper Wolf Creek offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation transforms summer camping into a cool escape from desert heat below, while afternoon thunderstorms sweep across the peaks, bringing drama to blue skies. The thin mountain air means you'll sleep soundly under more stars than you knew existed, though you might find yourself catching your breath on those first uphill hikes as your body adjusts to the altitude.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark catching golden afternoon light. The forest floor comes alive with the twisted beauty of juniper trees and the seasonal dance of Gambel oaks, which paint the mountainsides gold each fall. Native grasses sway between ancient boulders, while spring and summer monsoons awaken carpets of wildflowers in brilliant yellows, purples, and reds. As MELISSA W enthusiastically noted: "Beautiful site! Amazing hikes and Froggy Falls is always worth it." The surrounding Bradshaw Mountains offer endless exploration, from hidden waterfalls to panoramic vistas that remind you why Arizona's high country remains one of the Southwest's best-kept secrets.
Geological RegionWelcome to the Bradshaw Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning diversity. Upper Wolf Creek sits within this dramatic terrain, where weathered granite boulders tell stories of volcanic upheavals millions of years old. The campground's 6,000-foot perch showcases nature's perfect forest recipe: majestic ponderosa pines dominate the canopy, while aromatic junipers and graceful Gambel oaks fill the understory. Native bunch grasses carpet the forest floor between massive boulders, creating natural gardens that burst with seasonal wildflowers. This unique ecosystem represents a transition zone where desert meets mountain, creating a biodiversity hotspot that delights both casual nature lovers and serious botanists alike.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe site is not fully accessible, though the toilet facilities are described as accessible.
Sites SizeThe group area accommodates up to 100 people, though user reviews suggest it's more comfortable for smaller groups. RVs up to 40 feet can be accommodated.
Sites PrivacyThe campground has thinly spaced trees in some areas, providing moderate privacy while allowing space for group activities.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring warm clothing for nighttime, hand sanitizer, wipes, and backup toilet paper for larger groups. Canopies recommended for shade during the day.
Best CampsitesGroup site setup described as accommodating 6-7 tents with significant spacing and ample fire pits. "Steel fire rings at many of the campsites and a great large concrete ring for group fire activities." (User review: J.P. Scott)

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights within 30 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 people per group site.
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 100 people, though user reviews suggest it is more comfortable for smaller gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe group site contains 13 picnic tables, five grills, and one campfire ring, with dispersed fire pits and room for RV parking up to 40 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to October 31, reservable from June 20 through October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online platform, app, or by phone at 1 (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) also forfeit the first night’s use fee. Changes to reservations have a $10 fee if outside original reservation dates.

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

The campground offers a mix of recreational activities, from on-site games like volleyball and horseshoes to nearby hiking and mountain biking trails. Goldwater Lake nearby supports boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Wildlife viewing is also possible, with deer and a variety of birds being common sightings.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available within the Bradshaw Mountains surrounding the campground. Trails vary in difficulty and are suitable for both hiking and mountain biking.
Fishing
Fishing is available at the nearby Goldwater Lake, where anglers can catch trout, sunfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.
Biking
Mountain biking trails in the Bradshaw Mountains offer scenic views and varying levels of difficulty.
Boating
Goldwater Lake, located a few miles from the campground, provides opportunities for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. The lake has a dock and boat ramp.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and a variety of birds. User reviews also mention wild pigs and coyotes near campsites.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available at Goldwater Lake.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires allowed in developed fire pits only. Fireworks prohibited year-round.
  • Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife encounters include deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, wild pigs, and snakes. "Some wild pigs came and ate some of our food before we put it in our cars for the night." (User review: Morgan L) "Coyotes running around our site." (User review: Libby Short)
Active alertsNo alerts currently listed.

Weather forecast

54
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 29%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 8.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Bradshaw Ranger District Office: General inquiries available at 928-443-8000. Emergency services nearest located in Prescott.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 1 to October 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, though users noted limited capacity. Campers are encouraged to pack out excess garbage.
Proximity to water featuresWithin a few miles of Goldwater Lake, offering boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking opportunities.
Common complaintsReports of rough roads leading to the site, strong odors from vault toilets during hot days, and poor maintenance of recreational courts.
HostRangers from Bradshaw Ranger District are available for inquiries or emergencies via phone. Lock combinations for gates are provided upon reservation.

Campground Map

PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S CORTEZ ST, PRESCOTT, AZ 86301, USA
Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, Arizona: Traveling Northbound on I-17 take Exit 262 onto Hwy 69 North to Prescott and continue on Hwy 69 for 41 miles. Turn onto South Mt. Vernon Avenue (a.k.a Senator Highway) and drive south for about 6 miles. Pass the entrance to Goldwater Lake and the community of Groom Creek. The pavement ends about 500 feet before Forest Road 97. Turn right onto Forest Road 97 and travel for another 0.75 miles to the group campground on the right. Forest Road 97 is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. Alternate route from Flagstaff, Arizona: Traveling Southbound on I-17 take Exit 278 onto Westbound Highway 169 and continue for 15 Miles until reaching the junction of Hwy 69, turn right onto Northbound Hwy 69 and continue for 15 miles until arriving in Prescott. Turn onto South Mt. Vernon Avenue (a.k.a Senator Highway) and drive south for about 6 miles. Pass the entrance to Goldwater Lake and the community of Groom Creek. The pavement ends about 500 feet before Forest Road 97. Turn right onto Forest Road 97 and travel for another 0.75 miles to the group campground on the right. Forest Road 97 is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. Alternate route from Prescott: Take Hwy 89 (White Spar Road) south for about 6 miles to Forest Road 97. Turn left on Forest Road 97 and go another 5.5 miles to the campground; you will pass through the Ponderosa Park community along the way.
Forest Road 97 leading to the campground is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. "Beautiful site but road coming into and through the site needs some TLC as they're very rough." (User review: Anita Phelps)
Nearby places
Prescott (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Prescott, AZ (8 miles)—available for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.

Camper Reviews

4.5
13 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Upper Wolf Creek Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground generally praise its spaciousness, privacy, and suitability for group activities. The proximity to Prescott and surrounding natural features are also highlighted as positives.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the spacious group site, the availability of amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, and the secluded, quiet location. Wildlife sightings and nearby hiking trails receive...
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Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the lack of water and electricity, the poor condition of the horseshoe pit, and occasional issues with trash capacity. The unpaved road leading to the campground was also mentioned...
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Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, firewood, hand sanitizer, and room spray. Prepare for cold nights even in summer, and secure food to avoid wildlife encounters. Verify cell service availability if needed.
Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Camping in summer is appreciated for pleasant daytime temperatures and natural blooms, but cold nights are common. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from late June to mid-September. Winter camping...
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Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The weather during the day was perfect! Plenty of trees for shade... Weather was probably 75-82." "Bathrooms were not super gross, it is vault, the hotter the day is the more it smells." "We did not...
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Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 1 in Loop UPPE received specific praise but also highlighted the need for self-sufficiency, as there were no services or trash collection.
Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

Generally accessible with vault toilets described as accessible, but the site overall is not fully wheelchair-friendly.
Based on 13 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed; some users noted concerns about coyotes near campsites.
Based on 13 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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