Cave Creek Group Site
4.2918 reviews40202 N Cave Creek Rd
Cave Creek Group Site
$75.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$75 per night for groups of 1-50 people. $150 per night for groups of 51-150 people.
About this campground
Step back in time at Cave Creek Group Site, where the legacy of the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in this remarkable desert sanctuary. Perfect for reunions, retreats, and celebrations, this historic campground welcomes groups of up to 150 people into a secluded valley oasis. Original stone ramadas provide welcome shade for picnic gatherings, while the spacious layout ensures everyone has room to spread out and enjoy the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
The Cave Creek Group Site is specifically designed for group camping, accommodating up to 150 people. It is best suited for primitive camping and RVs without hook-ups.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through every stone at Cave Creek, where young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved out this campground during the Great Depression. Just beyond the camp boundaries, the ancient Sears-Kay ruin stands sentinel on its hilltop perch, a National Register treasure that tells stories stretching back centuries. Here, visitors can trace the footsteps of Native Americans who once called these hills home, their village remnants offering a profound connection to the deep human history of the Sonoran Desert.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Cave Creek in different colors and moods. Spring transforms the landscape into a painter's palette of wildflowers blooming beneath perfectly mild skies. Summer brings the full intensity of desert heat, ideal for early morning adventures and evening stargazing. As autumn arrives, the days remain warm while nights turn refreshingly cool, creating perfect campfire weather. Winter offers crisp evenings that invite cozy gatherings, though visitors should note that the rainy season can bring dramatic flash floods through the valley.
ElevationElevation information unavailable.
Natural Features and SceneryTucked into an intimate valley where juniper and sycamore trees create a natural cathedral, Cave Creek offers an unexpected ribbon of water in the desert landscape. The namesake creek flows clear and shallow, inviting bare feet on hot days and providing a gentle soundtrack to your stay. When spring rains work their magic, the surrounding desert erupts in a spectacular wildflower display, while the encompassing hills frame postcard-perfect views of the iconic Sonoran Desert stretching to the horizon.
Geological RegionThis hidden gem occupies a narrow valley carved by time and water, where the unexpected combination of flowing creek and desert ecosystem creates a unique microclimate. Juniper and sycamore trees thrive along the waterway, their shade a welcome respite in the heart of the Sonoran Desert. The surrounding geology tells the story of ancient forces that sculpted these valleys and ridges, creating the dramatic landscape that makes this corner of Arizona so captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is accessible by vehicles, but the road leading to it is described as narrow, with blind curves, and it is an all-weather gravel road. Trailers over 16 feet are not recommended. The site itself is spacious and can accommodate up to 150 people.
Sites SizeThe campsite features one large open camping area suitable for groups of up to 150 people.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers privacy, as it is secluded and surrounded by trees. However, some users noted that neighboring campers from dispersed sites might wander onto the group site.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for groups of up to 150 people. Bring sufficient water, trash bags, and a broom. Keep gates closed to reduce unwanted visitors.
Best CampsitesGroup campsite #001 within Cave Creek Group Site; frequently praised for its spaciousness and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups of up to 150 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 150 people and includes amenities such as large ramadas, picnic tables, and central grills. It is spacious and offers privacy, although neighboring dispersed campers sometimes use the vault toilets.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group site with covered ramadas, picnic tables, and food prep areas. Features stone benches and a game area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1st to December 31st annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis site is reservable only and must be booked in advance. It does not offer walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before scheduled arrival; a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 14 calendar days for group sites) incur an additional fee equal to the first night's use fee. Guests are encouraged to notify staff if departing early for potential refunds.
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 Cave Creek Group Site offers a diverse range of recreational activities including camping, hiking, mountain biking, picnicking, sightseeing, bird and wildlife viewing, as well as games like volleyball and horseshoes. The site is described as "a hidden gem" for group camping.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant with over 48 miles of trails accessible from the nearby Cave Creek Trailhead. These trails are suitable for day hikes and overnight backpacking trips, and one user mentioned hiking "the Cave Creek Trail #4, 2.5 miles in to the Cave Creek Pools."Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available along the 48 miles of nearby trails. The terrain and trail difficulty are not specified.Wildlife viewing
The site offers opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing. In addition, springtime brings blooming desert wildflowers, which attract photographers.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the area can get cold at night during the late fall and winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not applicable due to the shallow creek.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated areas. Firewood must be obtained locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are No loud music or generators allowed after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include flash flooding, cold nighttime temperatures in winter, and challenging road conditions with blind curves and washboard dirt surfaces. Wildlife may occasionally visit the campground.
Active alertsUse caution during rainy seasons due to flash flooding. Verify gate accessibility with the ranger station before arrival.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.5 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 available in Carefree or Cave Creek, including hospitals and police stations. For specific inquiries, the ranger district can be contacted at 480-595-3300.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash service is provided, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. One user noted that they had to clean up trash left by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Seven Springs Creek, which has minimal flow depth and is sufficient for crawdad hunting.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include dusty conditions, lack of drinking water, and issues with restroom cleanliness, such as flies and odor.
HostRangers available Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at 480-595-3300 for inquiries and gate code access.
Campground Map
40202 N Cave Creek Rd
Driving directionsDrive 19 miles north from Carefree, Arizona. From Carefree, take Cave Creek Road (Forest Road 24) to Seven Springs Day use area. Continue for less than 1/2 mile to the turn off to the group site. The last 9 miles of Forest Road 24 is an all-weather gravel road that is narrow with blind curves.
The last 9 miles of the road are unpaved and classified as all-weather gravel with narrow and blind curves. Trailers over 16 feet are not recommended. Use caution during the rainy season as flash flooding can occur.Nearby places
Carefree (19 miles, approximately 30-minute drive), Cave Creek (20 miles, approximately 30-minute drive), Phoenix (approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be obtained from Cave Creek or Carefree, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel. Bring sufficient water as there is no drinking water available on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.3
18 reviews
Cave Creek Group Site is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cave Creek Group Site are generally positive, highlighting the site's spaciousness, privacy, and suitability for large groups. However, the lack of water, electricity, and cell service is frequently mentioned as a drawback. Several users praised the cleanliness and maintenance of the site, while others noted occasional issues such as trash left by previous campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the site's seclusion, large capacity, and well-maintained amenities. Common positive remarks include the beauty of the surroundings, the spaciousness of the site, and the...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water, electricity, and reliable cell service are the most frequently mentioned complaints. Some users also reported issues with the vault toilets, including odors and flies....
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing essential supplies, including water, trash bags, and toilet paper, as these amenities are not provided. Other tips include downloading music or other entertainment in...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The site is cooler than Phoenix during the summer, making it a popular escape despite the heat. In winter, temperatures drop significantly at night. Spring is particularly recommended for its...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Everything about this site is gorgeous! Has everything you need for group camping, including vaulted toilets." - Drew Lewis. "Must be reserved. Has covered patio with many tables for big groups......
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is frequently mentioned in reviews as spacious and well-equipped for large groups, but issues with neighboring dispersed campers using the vault toilets have been noted.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available, but the site is described as vehicle-accessible with caution advised for larger trailers.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed. No additional reviews specifically concerning pets are available.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025