Riverview Campground
4.758 reviewsRiverview Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The recreation use fee for Riverview Campground is $5 per night for two vehicles. Additional vehicles are charged $2 each per night. Discounts of 50%...
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Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$5.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider(928)348-4400SFOWEB_AZ@blm.gov
About this campground
Escape to Riverview Campground, where the gentle murmur of the Gila River creates nature's perfect soundtrack for your desert adventure. Tucked within the pristine Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, this intimate 13-site campground offers an authentic Southwest camping experience that balances rustic charm with essential comforts. Each thoughtfully designed campsite comes complete with a picnic table, fire ring, grill, and welcoming shade structure—your personal oasis in the high desert. Whether you choose one of the ten convenient pull-in sites or three spacious pull-through sites perfect for larger RVs and trailers, you'll find yourself immersed in one of Arizona's most remarkable riparian ecosystems. Fresh drinking water and facilities ensure comfort, while the campground's strategic location makes it an ideal launching point for river kayaking expeditions, wildlife watching, and hunting adventures in the surrounding conservation lands.
Riverview Campground offers 13 first-come, first-served campsites suitable for tent, trailer, and RV camping. It caters to a variety of campers, including those requiring accessible features.
Historical SignificanceRiverview Campground sits within the extraordinary Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, a landscape that tells the story of nature's resilience and adaptation in the American Southwest. While the area may not boast ancient ruins or historic buildings, it preserves something equally precious—one of the desert's most vibrant and ecologically significant riparian corridors, where the persistent flow of the Gila River has created a living museum of biodiversity that has sustained life in this arid region for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's magical temperature dance at Riverview, where warm, sun-kissed days give way to refreshingly cool evenings under star-studded skies. During the popular mid-September camping season, you'll bask in comfortable daytime temperatures perfect for exploration, while nights bring a gentle coolness that requires nothing more than a light blanket for cozy comfort. The region's signature dry climate creates ideal conditions for outdoor adventures, punctuated by occasional desert breezes that whisper through the riverside cottonwoods and carry the scents of sage and mesquite across your campsite.
ElevationThe campground's specific elevation creates the perfect balance of accessibility and scenic beauty, contributing to the area's unique microclimate where desert meets river in a spectacular display of ecological diversity.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on a scenic northern bench with commanding views of the Gila River below, Riverview Campground immerses you in one of the Southwest's most enchanting riparian wonderlands. Here, verdant ribbons of cottonwoods and willows create cooling galleries along the water's edge, while the air fills with the melodious calls of countless bird species—from brilliant vermillion flycatchers to majestic great blue herons. The surrounding landscape showcases nature's artistry, where emerald vegetation contrasts dramatically with golden canyon walls, and every sunrise and sunset paints the sky in breathtaking desert hues. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in spotting javelinas, deer, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive creatures that make their home in this precious desert oasis.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, Riverview Campground offers front-row seats to one of nature's most impressive geological theaters. From your elevated position on the northern bench, you'll witness where ancient forces carved dramatic canyons and the persistent Gila River continues its patient work of sculpting the landscape. This rare riparian ecosystem thrives in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, creating an ecological treasure trove where water-loving cottonwoods share space with hardy desert plants, and the diversity of birdlife rivals that of any nature preserve. The unique geology has created perfect conditions for an astounding variety of wildlife, making every day at Riverview a new opportunity for discovery in this living laboratory of desert adaptation.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 1 is designated as accessible, with features such as a wheelchair-accessible table, a taller fire ring, and level grading on an aggregate surface.
Sites SizeThe sites have been recently enlarged to better accommodate trailers and RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as spacious and private. User reviews highlight this: 'Very large and private campsites' (Jim Reed) and 'Beautiful, spacious, and well-maintained' (Dee Arm).
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors seeking accessibility should consider Site 1 for its ABA/ADA-compliant features.
Best CampsitesSite 1 is noted for its ABA/ADA accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible table, taller fire ring, and aggregate surface with level grading.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Unknown
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unknown
Groups
Group camping sites are not mentioned in the source materials.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 13 campsites, with ten pull-in sites and three pull-through sites designed to accommodate both tents and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific open/closed seasons are mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable as reservations are not allowed.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is entirely first-come, first-served, with a total of 13 campsites available.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable as reservations are not accepted. Campsites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Riverview Campground offers a range of outdoor activities in the surrounding Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for river-based recreation like kayaking.
Hiking
The campground is surrounded by day-use sites and trails along the Gila River. Visitors note great trails. 'Beautiful riparian area. Great trails and places to play in the river' (Bev Mueller).Boating
The campground serves as a launch point for boating activities on the Gila River. Jim Reed notes it is a 'great launch point for first-time river kayaking.'Wildlife viewing
The Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area supports rich riparian habitats, offering excellent opportunities for observing birds and other wildlife. 'The area contains significant riparian areas with many birds and other wildlife as well as unique vegetation.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not referenced in the source materials.Water Sports
Kayaking on the Gila River is a highly recommended activity, with the campground acting as a convenient launch point.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings and grills are provided at each site, suggesting fires are permitted within designated areas.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThe road leading to the campground has narrow, winding sections with blind corners and steep grades. Windy conditions have been mentioned by users, posing challenges for campers with portable equipment.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 14.9 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
Nearest emergency services are located in Safford, Arizona, approximately 5 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season dates are mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Gila River, making it an ideal spot for activities such as kayaking and river exploration.
Common complaintsSome users report windy conditions affecting their camping setups. A lack of camp host presence during high-demand periods like Easter led to disruptive behavior by some visitors.
HostUser reviews praise host Walter for excellent maintenance of the campground. However, there have been instances where the host was absent during busy periods, leading to some disruptions.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Safford, travel five miles east on AZ 70 to Soloman, then turn left onto Sanchez Road. Follow Sanchez Road to the end of the pavement and follow the signs to the campground. The last mile to the campground is a gravel road. It is rocky in sections and the hill leading down into the campground is the roughest spot. The turn off from Sanchez Road is Bonita Creek Road, which is narrow, winding, and has steep grades. Visitors should exercise caution, as there are numerous curves and blind corners. Within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, passenger cars can access major points, but some roads require a four-wheel-drive vehicle due to infrequent maintenance. Check with Safford Field Office for up-to-date road conditions.
The campground is accessible via passenger car, but the last mile is a gravel road with rocky sections and steep, narrow grades. Most of the road is paved, but requires caution due to single-lane areas and blind corners.Nearby places
Safford, Arizona (approximately 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Necessary supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping items, can be found in Safford, Arizona, about 5 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
8 reviews
Riverview Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-reviewed, with an average sentiment of 4.75 out of 5 and campers appreciating its spaciousness, natural beauty, and accessibility to the Gila River.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors commonly praise the campground for its spacious and private campsites, its proximity to the Gila River, and its well-maintained facilities. Comments include: 'Very large and private...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mention challenges with access roads, including steep grades and blind curves on Bonita Creek Road. For example, Bev Mueller notes, 'The road in is mostly paved with steep and blind...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest preparing for hot weather during the day in summer months, although nights tend to cool down. Jim Reed states, 'Still pretty hot in mid-September, nights cool down, needing a thin...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Hot daytime temperatures are noted in mid-September, while nights cool considerably, making it more comfortable for camping.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Very large and private campsites.' (Jim Reed) 2. 'Beautiful, spacious, and well-maintained campground and at the bargain rate of $5 a night.' (Dee Arm) 3. 'Great launch point for first-time river...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is highlighted for its accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible table and level grading.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Positive feedback highlights Site 1's accessibility features, including a taller fire ring, a wheelchair-accessible table, and an aggregate surface with level grading for ease of use.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences involving pets are not discussed in the source materials.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025