Ponderosa (Az)
4.52316 reviews1009 East Highway 260, PAYSON, AZ 85541, USA
Ponderosa (Az)
$22.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The facility charges $22 per night for standard non-electric sites and $100 per night for group sites. Additional fees may apply for late cancellations, changes, or no-shows.
About this campground
Escape to Ponderosa Campground, where 48 thoughtfully spaced single sites and 2 group gathering spots nestle beneath a cathedral of towering Ponderosa pines in northern Arizona's rolling forests. Here, the air carries the distinctive vanilla fragrance of sun-warmed pine bark, while generous spacing between sites ensures the privacy and tranquility you seek. This meticulously maintained mountain retreat offers the perfect balance of accessibility and wilderness, where each campsite feels like your own private corner of the forest.
Campground accommodations include 48 single campsites and 2 group sites. Sites are designed for tents, RVs, and trailers. Walk-in and first-come, first-served primitive camping options are also available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days unfold with gentle warmth that gives way to refreshingly cool evenings perfect for campfire conversations, all under Arizona's famously dry skies. Mid-summer brings the drama of monsoon season, when afternoon thunderheads build over the pines, delivering brief but spectacular rain showers that enhance the forest's earthy aromas. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a painter's palette of golden aspens and russet oaks, with temperatures that make hiking and exploring pure pleasure.
ElevationPerched at 5,000 feet above sea level, Ponderosa Campground offers a refreshing mountain climate that feels worlds away from Arizona's desert heat below. This sweet spot elevation brings crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that can run 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix or Tucson. While the altitude provides welcome relief from summer heat, it also means being prepared for nature's mountain residents—black bears occasionally wander through, and afternoon monsoon storms can arrive with little warning, adding excitement to your high-country adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where majestic Ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their cinnamon-colored bark glowing in filtered sunlight. This diverse ecosystem weaves together stately pines with twisted junipers, spreading oaks, and the distinctive red-barked manzanita shrubs that add splashes of color to the understory. Beyond the immediate forest canopy, glimpses of the mighty Mogollon Rim remind you that you're camping at the edge of something spectacular—where the Colorado Plateau dramatically meets the sky.
Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds at the base of one of Arizona's most dramatic geological features—the Mogollon Rim, a stunning 200-mile escarpment that rises like a natural fortress across the state. This ancient cliff face, carved by millions of years of erosion, creates a dramatic boundary between Arizona's cool pine forests above and the warm desert basins below. From various vantage points near the campground, you can peer into deeply carved canyons and weathered buttes that tell the story of our planet's dynamic past, all while standing at elevations that range from 5,000 to 7,000 feet along this magnificent geological divide.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are close to sites and accessible, with clean and safe drinking water nearby. However, some reviews describe narrow concrete pads and untrimmed trees, which might pose challenges for large RVs.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and spacious in authoritative sources and user reviews. Specific accounts highlight sites being well-spaced apart, accommodating setups like tents and 30' trailers.
Sites PrivacySites offer a high level of privacy due to dense vegetation and spacious layouts. However, some users noted that certain campsites are closer together or near the highway, which might affect the experience.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from Highway 260 for quieter experiences. Sites with bear-proof food lockers and shaded areas are highly favored.
Best CampsitesUsers recommend sites in Loops C and D for greater distance from road noise. Site-specific mentions include D-08 and C-09.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each standard site accommodates up to 8 guests.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 25 people and are well-maintained, with access to water and bathrooms nearby.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of loops labeled A, B, C, and D. Sites are well-spaced for privacy, with some offering pull-through and back-in access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to November 3 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and the mobile app. First-come, first-serve sites use Scan & Pay.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available and payment is completed using on-site fee machines or the Scan & Pay mobile app. No cash is accepted.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations for individual sites will forfeit the first night's fees. Scan & Pay reservations are non-refundable.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ponderosa Campground offers numerous recreational activities, including walking nature trails, scenic driving, and accessing nearby lakes like Woods Canyon Lake for boating and fishing. Hiking is highly recommended, with trails providing scenic views of the surrounding forests and cliffs. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with users mentioning sightings of bears and smaller wildlife like squirrels and javelinas.
Hiking
The campground provides access to hiking trails and scenic areas, including Horton Creek and Mogollon Rim. Trails vary in difficulty, and users praised their proximity to the campground.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at nearby Woods Canyon Lake, which is a 15-minute drive from the campground.Biking
Biking is possible along the campground's paved drives and nearby trails, as mentioned in user reviews.Boating
Boating is available at nearby Woods Canyon Lake, as described in authoritative sources.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is prominent; frequent mentions of bears, javelinas, and other small forest creatures. Observations about wildlife were mixed, highlighting the importance of bear safety measures.Winter Activities
The campground is open during late fall and provides a serene environment, but specific winter activities like snowshoeing or skiing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing can be enjoyed at Woods Canyon Lake nearby.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits unless fire restrictions are in effect during dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity, highway noise, and monsoon storms. Campers are advised to store food and scented items securely in bear-proof containers.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 are available in Payson, AZ, approximately 15 minutes away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to November 3.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, and users are advised to use bear-proof refuse containers for safety.
Proximity to water featuresWoods Canyon Lake is approximately 15 minutes away, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from nearby highway 260 is a frequent concern. Some users noted strict or inconsistent behavior by campground hosts.
HostSeveral reviews mention hosts like Beth and Patti providing exceptional service, including delivering firewood and cleaning sites.
Campground Map
1009 East Highway 260, PAYSON, AZ 85541, USA
Driving directionsFrom Payson, Arizona, go east on State Route 260. The campground is located on the south side of 260. A campground sign is visible before the campground entrance.
The campground is easily accessible via paved roads from State Route 260. No seasonal closures are noted, but those closer to the highway may experience traffic noise.Nearby places
Payson (approx. 15 minutes), Phoenix (approx. 90 minutes), Woods Canyon Lake (approx. 15 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Payson, AZ, approximately 15 minutes from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
316 reviews
Ponderosa (Az) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Ponderosa Campground are highly positive, emphasizing cleanliness, friendly hosts, spacious campsites, and scenic beauty. Criticisms include occasional highway noise and host behavior inconsistencies. Sentiments averaged 4.44 overall and 4.376 specifically for campgrounds.
Review Summaries
Based on 316 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the cleanliness of the restrooms, spaciousness of the campsites, and attentiveness of hosts like Beth. Comments include: "One of the cleanest campgrounds we've been to."...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative experiences include highway noise, confusion around campsite reservations, and some unfriendly hosts. Examples: "The host was very rude and condescending." "Highway noise disrupted the...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
"Bring earplugs if you're near the highway." "Check for first-come, first-served availability on arrival." "Carry bear-proof containers and practice safety protocols." "Plan visits during weekdays to...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive experiences dominate during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and the campground is quieter. Summer can bring higher occupancy levels and mixed reviews about noise. Fall...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beth was the best campground host I've ever met." "Vault toilets were the cleanest I've seen." "The spaces were large and shaded, perfect for hammocks." "Bring traps for bees and wasps; they can be...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site C09 is highly praised for its cleanliness and bear-proof storage. Site D08 had issues with tight spaces and tree branches around RVs. Loop A sites are closer to the highway, and users report...
Based on 316 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are generally positive. Vault toilets are close to campsites, but narrow concrete pads may pose challenges for larger RVs. Sites are spacious, allowing for flexible setups.
Based on 316 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, with multiple users commenting on well-behaved dogs seen around campsites. "Perfect for pets - lots of shade and trails."
Based on 316 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025