Pinal & Upper Pinal Campgrounds
4.5910 reviewsPinal & Upper Pinal Campgrounds
$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 this site.
About this campground
Escape to Pinal Campground, where four intimate campsites await beneath a cathedral of towering ponderosa pines and fragrant white firs in the heart of Tonto National Forest. This hidden gem offers a refreshing mountain retreat when Arizona's desert floor sizzles in summer heat. As you settle into your campsite, you're camping on historic ground—these peaceful woods once echoed with the clicks and flashes of US Army heliographic signals in the late 1800s, when soldiers used mirrors to relay messages across vast distances from this strategic mountaintop outpost.
Pinal Campground offers primitive camping with a limited number of campsites. It caters to those looking for a minimalist and back-to-nature experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this remarkable site where US Army soldiers once stood watch in the late 1800s, operating a vital heliographic signaling station. Using specially designed mirrors to flash coded messages across mountain peaks, these frontier communicators connected remote military outposts across the Arizona Territory, making this peaceful campground a fascinating piece of America's western military heritage.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 7,500 feet, Pinal Campground offers a dramatic escape from desert heat, with June temperatures hovering around a pleasant 78°F during sun-dappled days before cooling to a crisp 65°F under star-filled nights. Winter transforms this mountain sanctuary into a snow-dusted wonderland, though adventurous souls should note that winter storms may temporarily close access roads—always check conditions before your journey to this alpine retreat.
ElevationAt 7,500 feet above sea level, Pinal Campground sits in Arizona's sky island country, where thin mountain air carries the scent of pine resin and wildflowers. This lofty elevation creates a true alpine environment, offering camping conditions that feel worlds away from the Sonoran Desert below—expect cool breezes, crisp mornings, and the kind of refreshing mountain atmosphere that makes summer camping a joy.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark glowing copper in the afternoon light, while stately white firs provide deep, cooling shade for your campsite. This remarkable transition zone showcases nature's versatility as the harsh beauty of the desert gives way to lush alpine forests, creating a camping experience that captures the essence of Arizona's diverse ecosystems in one spectacular setting.
Geological RegionDiscover Arizona's remarkable vertical diversity at Pinal Campground, where the landscape tells a story of elevation and transformation. Here in the state's high country, the familiar saguaro-studded desert yields to cool mountain forests of pine and oak, creating a unique ecological crossroads. Magnificent stands of ponderosa pines and white firs dominate this alpine environment, offering campers a chance to experience Arizona's lesser-known but equally stunning mountain personality.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information regarding accessibility features.
Sites SizeCampsites are standard to small-sized. Pinal has 4 units, and Upper Pinal has 3 units.
Sites PrivacySites are described as 'secluded,' providing good privacy in the forested area.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to prepare for cooler temperatures at night and to bring all necessary supplies, as there are no on-site services. Compact or high-clearance vehicles are recommended due to road conditions.
Best CampsitesCampsite #1 is favored by visitors for both day picnics and overnight stays, though one reviewer noted a log obstructing the firepit area.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14-day stay limit.
Groups
No group-specific site information is provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 4 individual sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but winter access may be impacted by snow.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, picnicking, and nature observation. Visitors appreciate the extensive network of nearby trails and the serene forest setting.
Hiking
Eight hiking trails are accessible within one mile of the campground. These trails offer spectacular views and are part of the extensive trail system in the area.Wildlife viewing
The tall ponderosa pines and white fir create an excellent environment for enjoying nature and wildlife. User reviews highlight the 'green and lush' setting.Winter Activities
The campground is open year-round, but snowfall occurs in winter, making access challenging during this season. Activities like snowshoeing or winter hikes may be possible.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are only allowed in designated areas, but restrictions may apply depending on the time of year.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRoads leading to the campground can be challenging, with narrow, winding sections, drop-offs, and hairpin turns. Some user reviews mention the road being washed out in places and unsuitable for low-profile vehicles during rain or snow. There are also no railings on the steep sections.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 14.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Emergency services information unavailable.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo trash and recycling services are available. Visitors must pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresNo significant water features were mentioned.
Common complaintsA frequent concern is the road leading to the campground, described as narrow, winding, and difficult to navigate, especially during adverse weather conditions. Another issue is the lack of maintenance for restrooms, which are reported to be "normally filled with bugs."
Campground Map
Driving directionsThis site is 14.5 miles southwest of Globe. From Globe, follow paved Jess Hayes Road southeast of Globe to the junction of Icehouse Canyon Road/Forest Road (FR) 112 and Six-shooter Canyon Road/Forest Road (FR) 222. Continue on paved FR 112 for 2 miles, to the junction of FR 55 and FR 112. Take the right fork and continue on the partially paved FR 55 for 2 miles. At the junction of FR 55 and FR 651, turn left. Proceed 10 miles on unpaved FR 651 to the site.
FR 651 is a narrow, winding mountain gravel road that is suitable for sedans under dry conditions. However, reviews caution against using low-profile vehicles, and the road's condition worsens during rain or snow, with some sections washed out and narrow enough that two compact cars may struggle to pass. Hairpin turns and steep drop-offs without railings add to the challenge.Nearby places
Globe (14.5 miles, approximately 30 minutes drive depending on road conditions)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be sourced from Globe, which is 14.5 miles away and offers groceries, fuel, and other essentials. Campers are advised to have sufficient gas and supplies before heading to the site as no services are provided on-site.
Camper Reviews
4.6
10 reviews
Pinal & Upper Pinal Campgrounds is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the campground's scenic beauty, seclusion, and cooler temperatures compared to the Phoenix metro area. However, limited amenities, challenging road access, and maintenance issues with vault toilets are recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is commended for its beautiful and scenic environment, cool temperatures even in summer ('about 78 degrees in June'), and quiet atmosphere. Many reviewers appreciated the extensive...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several reviewers noted the challenging access road, describing it as narrow, primitive, and potentially hazardous during rain or snow. Vault toilets were criticized for poor maintenance and bug...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient supplies, including water and gas, due to the lack of on-site services. High-clearance vehicles are advised, especially in inclement weather. Campsite #1 is...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is preferred for its cooler temperatures compared to lower elevations. Winter access can be difficult due to snow, and monsoon rains may make roads hazardous.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Very beautiful and scenic. About 78 degrees in June... so very nice change from PHX metro area.' 2. 'This is my favorite place. It is quiet, very secluded.' 3. 'Road is extremely narrow in some...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 is frequently mentioned as a favorite, but reviewers noted maintenance issues such as a log across the firepit and proximity to the picnic table.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025