Coal Creek Campground
4.0612 reviewsCoal Creek 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
There is no fee to camp.
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About this campground
Tucked away where Arizona meets New Mexico, Coal Creek Campground offers weary travelers a tranquil mountain retreat along Highway 78. This intimate campground provides the perfect respite from the road, where the gentle sounds of seasonal Coal Creek create nature's soundtrack and towering trees offer shade and solitude.
Coal Creek Campground provides standard camping facilities ideal for tent camping and possibly for group camping, though no specific group sites are described.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather at Coal Creek, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and transforms the campground into a peaceful wonderland. As spring melts into summer, warm days invite exploration while cool mountain evenings remind you of the elevation. Crystal-clear skies dominate throughout the year, punctuated by refreshing summer rains that keep the forest green and vibrant.
ElevationPerched at 5,900 feet above sea level, Coal Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat. The elevation brings crisp, pine-scented air and noticeably cooler temperatures, especially after sunset when the mountain air creates perfect conditions for campfire stories and stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryMajestic ponderosa pines and sturdy oaks create a natural cathedral above Coal Creek Campground, their branches forming a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. When seasonal rains bless the region, Coal Creek comes alive, its waters creating a soothing melody as they wind through the campground, attracting wildlife and adding an enchanting element to your camping experience.
Geological RegionSituated in the transition zone where Arizona's rugged terrain meets New Mexico's distinctive landscape, Coal Creek Campground showcases the best of both states. Ancient ponderosa pines and weathered oaks tell the story of centuries past, while the seasonal creek bed reveals the geological forces that have shaped this borderland sanctuary over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as shaded and spacious in one user review.
Sites PrivacySeveral user reviews indicate that the campground is quiet, with many sites offering privacy. However, some are noted to be close to the road.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend choosing campsites set back from the road for more privacy and reduced noise.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No details about designated group sites are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutA small campground with campsites close to the road and a few set back for more privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is currently open.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, as reservations are not available.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The primary recreational activity mentioned for Coal Creek Campground is picnicking. Reviewers note the scenic beauty of the area, which could complement picnicking and other passive recreational activities.
Winter Activities
No winter activities are described.Water Sports
No water sports activities are described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention the campground is near a prison and that bullet holes were observed in the ladies' toilet door. Coyotes can be heard in the area.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.7 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
Emergency services and hospitals might be located in Clifton, which is 19 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is provided regarding trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresCoal Creek flows nearby seasonally.
Common complaintsSome reviewers noted its proximity to the highway, making certain areas noisy. Lack of potable water and bullet holes in facilities were also mentioned.
Campground Map
Driving directionsLocated 19 miles southeast of Clifton on US 191 and AZ 78.
The campground is accessible via major highways, US 191 and AZ 78. It is approximately 19 miles southeast of Clifton, suitable for road travel.Nearby places
Clifton: 19 miles southeast
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Clifton, 19 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
12 reviews
Coal Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Coal Creek Campground is consistently praised for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and tranquil environment. Several reviews note that it is an excellent place to stop along a journey due to its proximity to the highway and the Arizona/New Mexico border.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
- Scenic beauty with large ponderosa pines and oak trees
- Clean facilities
- Quiet and peaceful atmosphere
- Proximity to AZ Hwy 78 and Arizona/New Mexico border
- Spacious and shaded campsites
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Close proximity to the road, with some sites impacted by road noise
- No cell phone service (specifically for T-Mobile users)
- Lack of potable water
- Campground primarily used as a rest stop
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own potable water as there is none available on site.
- Plan for no cell reception, especially if using T-Mobile.
- Choose sites further from the road for more privacy and reduced noise.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
- Winter: Likely very cold, as indicated by weather descriptions, but no specific reviews for winter camping.
- Spring/Fall: Ideal seasons for camping, considering the cooler and pleasant...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Awakened at 5 AM to the eerie yet beautiful sounds of coyotes howling in the distance for about 10 minutes. Awesome experience!' - Frank
2. 'Quiet and beautiful campground all to ourselves for 5...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Sites close to the road are noisier.
- Some sites set back from the road offer more privacy.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet-related policies or amenities.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025