Yavapai Campground
4.34215 reviewsPRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, 344 S. CORTEZ STREET, Prescott, AZ, 86303, USA
Yavapai Campground
$18.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$24.00
Premium Site Fee$36.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $18 to $36 per night depending on site type. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles ($5 per vehicle beyond the first two). Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 via telephone, and $3 in-person.
About this campground
Nestled within the stunning Granite Basin Recreation Area, Yavapai Campground beckons adventurers seeking an intimate escape into Arizona's high country. This hidden gem combines the convenience of modern amenities—including composting toilets, fresh drinking water, and sturdy picnic tables—with the raw beauty of towering granite formations and fragrant ponderosa pine forests. Here, campers discover a sanctuary where the stress of daily life melts away beneath star-filled skies and the gentle whisper of mountain breezes.
Yavapai Campground is tailored for a variety of campers, including those with RVs, trailers, and tents. It also offers options for small groups.
Historical SignificanceWhile Yavapai Campground may not bear ancient petroglyphs or historic markers, its significance runs deeper—woven into the very fabric of the Prescott National Forest's conservation story. This protected landscape serves as a living testament to the importance of preserving Arizona's diverse ecosystems, offering generations of outdoor enthusiasts a place to connect with nature and create their own histories beneath the ponderosa pines.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Yavapai, where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Spring and fall offer perfect camping weather, with crisp mornings giving way to warm afternoons ideal for hiking and exploration. Summer brings the drama of Arizona sunshine, with temperatures soaring above 100°F—a reminder to seek refuge in shaded sites and plan activities for cooler morning hours. Winter transforms the campground into a quiet wonderland, where occasional snowfall dusts the granite peaks and frost sparkles on pine needles, creating magical moments for those brave enough to embrace the cold.
ElevationPerched at 5,600 feet above sea level, Yavapai Campground offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air feels cleaner and the stars shine brighter. This elevation blessing brings cooler temperatures and spectacular panoramic views that stretch across the surrounding peaks and valleys. While the altitude may leave lowlanders slightly breathless during their first hike, most visitors quickly acclimate and find the thin mountain air invigorating rather than challenging.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the sight of ancient granite sentinels glowing pink in the dawn light, their weathered faces telling stories millions of years in the making. Yavapai's landscape captivates with its diverse tapestry—towering ponderosa and limber pines provide cathedral-like canopies, while gnarled oaks and vibrant manzanita create understory gardens. The majestic Granite Mountain dominates the horizon, its rugged profile changing with each shift of light, while nearby Granite Basin Lake mirrors the sky and offers a serene backdrop for afternoon contemplation. This is nature's amphitheater, where every sunrise and sunset becomes a private show.
Geological RegionThe Granite Basin Recreation Area showcases Mother Nature's sculpting prowess, where ancient volcanic activity and eons of erosion have created a wonderland of weathered granite domes and boulder gardens. These massive stone formations, interspersed with groves of ponderosa pine, limber pine, and oak woodlands, create a unique ecosystem where desert meets mountain. Manzanita shrubs paint splashes of red-barked beauty against gray granite, while native grasses sway in mountain breezes. The nearby Granite Mountain Wilderness Area stands as a dramatic backdrop, its sheer cliffs attracting rock climbers and photographers alike, while tranquil Granite Basin Lake offers a perfect counterpoint to the area's rugged terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFour accessible campsites include small pedestal fire grills, and asphalt surfaces make site access easier.
Sites SizeMost campsites are compact, but some are spacious enough to accommodate larger RVs or multiple vehicles. The tent pads in many sites are limited in size, often fitting no more than a 4-6 person tent.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer a high level of privacy and are spaced apart with natural vegetation providing seclusion.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor large RVs, Campsite 11 is highly recommended due to its spaciousness. Tent campers may prefer Campsite 1 for its scenic granite boulder surroundings.
Best CampsitesCampsites 1, 5, 9, 11, and 17 are frequently praised for their views, privacy, and spaciousness. Campsite 9 offers electric hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00 (2 PM)
Check-out
11:00
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single sites allow up to 5 people
- double sites allow up to 10 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a single loop design with most sites separated by vegetation, providing privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season is April 1 - October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov, via the mobile app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThree walk-in sites (Campsites 4, 16, and 21) available on a first-come, first-serve basis. These sites are often taken during peak weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the day of arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight on the day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation fee. Changes to reservations also carry a $10 fee unless extending or shortening an existing stay.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, bird-watching, and canoeing. Granite Basin Lake and Granite Mountain Wilderness are nearby attractions offering additional recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Several interlocking hiking trails are in close proximity, with options suitable for various skill levels. Trails lead to Granite Mountain Wilderness and Granite Basin Lake.Fishing
Fishing is available at Granite Basin Lake, which is home to largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sunfish. Note that swimming in the lake is prohibited.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the area, with several trails directly accessible from the campground.Boating
Boating is permitted on Granite Basin Lake, with electric motors, paddle, oars, or sail-powered boats allowed, but swimming is prohibited.Wildlife viewing
Bird-watching is a popular activity, and wildlife like deer and coyotes are often seen in the area.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round, but specific winter activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are popular non-motorized water sports at Granite Basin Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated rings and grills. Charcoal-only use is required for pedestal grills.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include fire ants, wasps, and monsoon winds. Some wildlife sightings include snakes and coyotes. Bear activity has been reported near dumpsters.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be in effect during dry seasons, limiting campfire and smoking activities.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.8 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
Emergency services are available in Prescott, including Yavapai Regional Medical Center (hospital), Prescott Police Department, and the Bradshaw Ranger District.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 - October 31
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available for waste disposal. Recycling is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is about 2 miles from Granite Basin Lake, which supports fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Swimming is prohibited.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include generator noise, overgrown campsites, reservation conflicts, and occasional lack of host availability.
HostHosts vary in reliability, with some reviews describing excellent service while others note absenteeism or unhelpful behavior. Hosts are volunteers.
Campground Map
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, 344 S. CORTEZ STREET, Prescott, AZ, 86303, USA
Driving directionsFrom downtown Prescott, take Montezuma Street north to Whipple Street, which becomes Iron Springs Road. Continue northwest on Iron Springs Road for 3.5 miles and then turn right onto Granite Basin Road (FSR 374). Travel 2 miles to Yavapai Campground located on the left.
Road access is paved and accessible year-round. However, it can be tricky to navigate in the dark due to limited lighting and signage. Seasonal fire restrictions may be in place, affecting road conditions.Nearby places
Prescott: 7 miles (approximately 15-minute drive), Prescott Valley: 15 miles (approximately 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Prescott, approximately 7 miles away. Nearby stores include Walmart and local outdoor supply shops.
Camper Reviews
4.3
215 reviews
Yavapai Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly appreciated for its cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, and natural beauty. Common praises include its quiet and private sites, clean composting restrooms, and proximity to trails and Granite Basin Lake. However, some users noted issues like generator noise, mismanaged reservations, and insect problems.
Review Summaries
Based on 215 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean and odor-free composting toilets, spacious and private sites, access to trails, and friendly camp hosts. Many reviewers also appreciated the natural setting with abundant...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users complained about generator noise, small tent pads, wasp and bee infestations, overgrown campsites, and reservation issues leading to occupied spots. A few noted maintenance issues like...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra tarps for shade, being prepared for insects, and checking site conditions before setting up. Several reviewers suggested avoiding weekends for a quieter experience.
Based on 215 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the campground is peaceful and enjoyable year-round, but summer and early fall may experience increased insect activity. Monsoon season in late summer often brings rain, which...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The composting toilets were great—clean, no smell, no flies.' 2. 'Great star gazing, restrooms on site, large fire pits, some have grills too.' 3. 'Quiet and well-maintained, but beware of fire...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 9 is noted for having a 50-amp electric hookup. Sites 3 and 4 are limited to trailers no longer than 15 feet. Site 10 is ideal for a small camper or RV up to 25 feet. Site 12 offers privacy but...
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Accessibility Features
The four accessible campsites are appreciated for their small pedestal fire grills and asphalt driveways. However, specific feedback on accessibility features from users with disabilities is limited.
Based on 215 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed and must be kept on a 6-foot leash or in a cage. Some users noted coyotes in the area, advising caution with small pets.
Based on 215 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025