Oak Flat Campground
4.2752 reviews7680 S. Six Shooter Canyon Road, Globe, AZ 85501
Oak Flat Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for camping at Oak Flat Campground. It is a free-use site.
About this campground
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Tonto National Forest, Oak Flat Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic desert escape. This free, rustic haven draws rock climbers testing their skills on nearby cliffs and hikers exploring the rugged beauty of Devil's Canyon. With minimal facilities and a steadfast 'pack it in, pack it out' philosophy, Oak Flat offers a pure connection to the Arizona wilderness where starlit nights and desert sounds create unforgettable memories.
Oak Flat Campground is primarily designed for primitive camping, accommodating tents and RVs, although the sites lack modern hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds deep spiritual significance as sacred Apache territory, where generations of tribal members have gathered for ceremonies beneath these ancient oaks. The echoes of even older civilizations resonate just 15 miles east at Besh-Ba-Gowa Archaeological Park, where remarkably preserved Hohokam and Salado pueblos dating from 900-1225 A.D. tell the story of sophisticated desert communities that thrived here centuries ago.
Weather and SeasonsOak Flat transforms with the seasons, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Winter brings crisp mornings (34-43°F) and mild afternoons (52-61°F), occasionally dusted with snow that creates a magical desert landscape. Spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons for camping, with perfect temperatures (70-81°F days, 49-61°F nights) that invite endless exploration. Summer cranks up the heat (90-96°F), turning the campground into a sun-drenched retreat best enjoyed by early risers and sunset seekers.
ElevationPerched at 4,200 feet above sea level, Oak Flat provides a refreshing retreat from the scorching lower deserts. This elevation gifts campers with noticeably cooler temperatures, especially during magical desert nights when the temperature drops and millions of stars emerge in the clear mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic oak trees spread their welcoming canopy across the campground, creating natural gathering spots and shaded sanctuaries from the desert sun. The surrounding landscape unfolds in a dramatic tapestry of weathered rock formations and classic Sonoran Desert beauty. Lucky visitors might spot coyotes padding through camp at dawn, discover intricate tarantulas on evening walks, or wake to a symphony of desert birds celebrating the sunrise. Even the humble desert toads make memorable appearances after rare rainstorms.
Geological RegionOak Flat sits as a jewel along the spectacular Gila-Pinal Scenic Route, where rolling hills meet the dramatic depths of Devil's Canyon. This remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry through sculpted rock formations, ancient oak groves that defy the desert stereotype, and panoramic vistas that stretch across the Tonto National Forest's diverse terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available.
Sites SizeMost sites are designed to accommodate travel trailers, with communal parking areas allowing tow vehicles to park next to trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are dispersed among live oak and cedar trees, providing moderate privacy but not full seclusion.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor RVs or high-profile vehicles, sites closer to the entrance are recommended due to low-hanging branches in upper parts of the campground. SUVs with good clearance can access further locations.
Best CampsitesSites under shady oak trees with communal parking options are preferred. Visitors recommend exploring deeper areas for quieter spots and better views.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 16 dispersed sites, many with communal parking and fire rings. Overflow areas exist in nearby fields.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsCamping is first-come, first-served; no reservation platforms are needed.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up/first-come-first-served, and camping space is typically available even during busy times.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are required, and no penalties for cancellation apply.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers limited recreational activities, primarily picnicking and hiking. It is known for its access to bouldering and rock climbing areas, as well as its scenic trails.
Hiking
The campground has trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and OHV (off-highway vehicles). Parts of the trail may be challenging for OHVs. Specific trail lengths are unknown.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking is allowed on trails originating from the campground, although detailed trail specifications are not available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as coyotes, toads, and tarantulas are commonly observed according to user reviews.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned. However, the year-round open season might allow for camping during colder months.Water Sports
No water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted in designated areas only, and campers are discouraged from cutting surrounding oak trees for firewood.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsRecent fires in the area may have contaminated natural vegetation with flame retardant chemicals. Wildlife such as coyotes and tarantulas can pose risks. Muddy roads and potential flooding at the western end of the campground are reported by users.
Active alertsThe campground may face future closures or destruction due to local mining projects. Seasonal closures occurred in 2021 to protect Apache tribal ceremonies.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
The nearest emergency services are located in Globe, including hospitals and ranger stations. Globe Ranger Station can be contacted at 928-402-6200.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash services are provided. Campers must pack out all waste themselves.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground has no lakes, rivers, or streams nearby. Recent rains may create temporary streams.
Common complaintsReviews describe the campground as 'run down' with trash issues. Some areas appear to host long-term residents, contributing to a 'homeless camp' vibe.
Campground Map
7680 S. Six Shooter Canyon Road, Globe, AZ 85501
Driving directionsFrom Superior, travel east for 3 miles on US Highway 60 and turn right (south) on Forest Road 469 (partially paved). Travel approximately 1 mile and turn left into the site.
Access to the campground involves traveling via Forest Road 469, which is partially paved. Some sections may feature irregular dirt parking aprons and low-hanging branches that can obstruct high-profile RVs. Heavy rains may make certain roads muddy or impassable.Nearby places
Superior (4 miles east, ~10 minutes)
Globe (15 miles east, ~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The Texaco station in Globe provides RV waste services. Globe also has grocery stores and camping supplies. Fuel is available in Superior and Globe.
Camper Reviews
4.3
52 reviews
Oak Flat Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Oak Flat Campground are mixed, with some praising its natural beauty and sacred significance while others criticize its maintenance and presence of long-term residents. Many reviews highlight its peaceful atmosphere and suitability for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the campground's free use policy, scenic surroundings, historical significance, and accessibility for large vehicles like fifth wheels. Vault toilets are often noted as clean and...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include poor maintenance, trash accumulation, road noise, and the campground's proximity to mining operations. Some users report that locals or long-term residents contribute to the site's...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Popular tips from reviews include bringing ample water and trash bags due to the lack of potable water and trash services. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to respect the sacredness of the land...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User experiences vary by season. Winter can be cold and windy, while summer brings sweltering heat. Spring and fall are noted as more pleasant times to visit due to moderate temperatures and scenic...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Sacred land of the Apache. You can feel the power of this place if you quietly sit and listen.' - zepply
2. 'Always camping space, always toilet paper in the 2 decently clean toilets, especially...
Based on 52 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are limited. Some mention sites with broken picnic tables and trash, while others praise sites with shade and proximity to scenic views.
Based on 52 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly toilets are available, but additional accessibility features are not mentioned in reviews.
Based on 52 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not explicitly discuss pet policies or experiences.
Based on 52 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025