How much does camping cost at Soldier Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Soldier Creek Campground range from $20-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Soldier Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Soldier Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-up availability only. Early arrivals recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.

Can I see photos of campsites at Soldier Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Soldier Creek Campground has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Soldier Creek Campground?

Soldier Creek Campground is open Mid-summer is popular for its cool temperatures.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Soldier Creek Campground?

Soldier Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Soldier Creek Campground have?

Soldier Creek Campground has 13 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Soldier Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Soldier Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Soldier Creek Campground?

Soldier Creek Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Soldier Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Soldier Creek Campground include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Soldier Creek Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Soldier Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Soldier Creek Campground: Campfires allowed unless otherwise stated during fire restrictions. Store firewood properly.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.29

34 reviews

Soldier Creek Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona

Top 10% in AZSummer

Featured in:Hiking Camping Arizona

Quick Facts

9,300 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

This area is not acc...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,300 ft

Price

$20 - $40/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

13 campsites

Season

This area is not acc...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Soldier Creek Campground

$20.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $20 per night Double Site: $40 per night Day Use: $8 per vehicle per day $10 per vehicle per week

Standard Site Fee$20.00

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Soldier Creek Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona

Soldier Creek Campground

Soldier Creek Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona

Nearby places

Safford (approximately 38 miles away, average travel time: 1 hour)

Nearby supplies

Closest supply locations include Safford (groceries, fuel, camping supplies). Additional amenities may be found in Tucson, about 90 miles away.

Driving directionsFrom Safford, Arizona: Drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366/Swift Trail. Turn right (southwest) onto AZ 366 and drive 29.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left side of the road. From Tucson, Arizona: Take I-10 east for 90 miles. Take exit 352 for US 191 and turn left toward Safford. Drive 26.3 miles north and turn left on AZ 366/Swift Trail. Drive 29.7 miles to the campground entrance on the left side of the road.

"Although paved and well maintained, Rt. 366 is steep and curvy with switchbacks. The last 7.3 miles are dirt, rocky, rough, and mostly wide single lane with some switchbacks." Vehicles longer than 22 feet are not recommended due to navigational difficulty. Seasonal closures affect road access from November 15 to April 15.

Weather at Soldier Creek Campground

Current alerts(2)

Note:
Black bear area. Store and dispose of all food in bear-proof containers and trash bins, or keep it locked in your vehicle.

Best Time to Camp at Soldier Creek Campground

Summer brings the most reliable access and comfortable conditions. Daytime highs run mid-60s to mid-70s°F, with nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Trails clear of snow by early summer, and the creek flows steadily. The campground closes November 15 through April 15 due to heavy snow. Expect some crowds on holiday weekends, though sites generally feel private thanks to the boulder-scattered layout. Weekdays stay quieter. Reviews mention occasional nights when only one or two sites are occupied.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in AZ

Most reliable access and most popular season; cool daytime highs make it ideal in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-summer is popular for its cool temperatures.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: This area is not accessible by vehicle from November 15 to April 15 when the Swift Trail is closed for the winter. Early or late snow may extend the inaccessible season.

About Soldier Creek Campground

Soldier Creek sits at 9,300 feet in the Pinaleño Mountains, where massive granite boulders and Douglas fir forest create a high-altitude retreat from the desert heat. The campground has 13 sites for tents and RVs, with fees ranging from $20 to $40 per night. Campers rate it 4.6 out of 5 stars, praising the scenery and spacious sites while noting that you'll need to bring your own water.

Soldier Creek Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent and RV camping. It offers a single loop design among forested areas and granite boulders.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access and comfortable conditions. Daytime highs run mid-60s to mid-70s°F, with nights dropping into the 30s and 40s. Trails clear of snow by early summer, and the creek flows steadily. The campground closes November 15 through April 15 due to heavy snow. Expect some crowds on holiday weekends, though sites generally feel private thanks to the boulder-scattered layout. Weekdays stay quieter. Reviews mention occasional nights when only one or two sites are occupied.

ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,300 feet above sea level, Soldier Creek offers a true alpine camping experience. This lofty elevation brings crisp, pine-scented air and temperatures that can be 20-30 degrees cooler than the desert floor below. The high altitude creates a unique ecosystem where Douglas firs thrive alongside quaking aspens, and where summer wildflowers bloom weeks later than in the lowlands. Here, the thin mountain air reveals spectacular night skies and provides a refreshing escape from summer's heat.

Natural Features and SceneryWeathered granite formations define this campground, creating natural sculpture between sites and offering climbing opportunities. Douglas fir trees provide shade and cover. This stands as one of the southernmost populations of these conifers in North America. Soldier Creek flows through the area. Views open across the Aravaipa Valley to the Galiuro and Winchester ranges. The granite bedrock reflects millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. At this elevation, you're in a sky island ecosystem that rises sharply from surrounding desert.

Geological RegionSoldier Creek sits within the majestic Pinaleño Mountains, a sky island ecosystem that rises dramatically from the surrounding desert. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through weathered granite formations that have been carved and polished over millions of years. The campground's unique position offers commanding views across the Aravaipa Valley to the distant Galiuro and Winchester ranges, creating a panoramic tapestry of Arizona's diverse topography. Here, the ancient granite bedrock tells the story of volcanic forces and erosion, while the surrounding Douglas fir forest represents one of the southernmost stands of these magnificent conifers in North America.

Scenic ViewsLower slopes of the Pinaleños, Aravaipa Valley, Galiuro Mountains, and Winchester Mountains. "Vistas from State Rt. 366 are awesome."

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at the campground, as it is purely a camping facility.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs being offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14 consecutive days are allowed per reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 10 persons per site.

Groups

No group camping facilities are present at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSingle loop winds through Douglas fir and granite formations. Boulders and trees create moderate separation between sites. Parking aprons are irregular and some show erosion. Space is generous, handling trailers and multi-tent family camps.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; walk-up availability only.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability only. Early arrivals recommended, especially during holidays and weekends.

Cancellation PolicyRefund policies are not explicitly outlined; reservations are not available.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned aside from wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious enough to accommodate mid-size trailers and large family setups.

PrivacyThe sites' layout provides a moderate level of privacy, with granite boulders and trees adding some natural separation.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites surrounded by boulders for privacy and unique ambiance. Arrive early during weekends and holidays for better selection.

Best CampsitesSites surrounded by granite boulders get the most praise in reviews. They offer natural privacy and proximity to the climbing rocks. The campground can accommodate mid-size trailers and large family setups in most spots.

Amenities available

The Soldier Creek Campground offers a serene natural environment, nestled among forest groves and large granite boulders, adding to its scenic beauty. Reviewers highlighted the presence of spacious sites and functional features such as picnic tables and restrooms. However, potable water is explicitly not available, and users should prepare accordingly. A nearby creek and trails enhance the experience for nature lovers.

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Soldier Creek Campground offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife exploration, with a trail leading to ice caves and stunning mountain vistas nearby. The natural surroundings are a significant attraction, featuring granite rocks and a creek.

Hiking

Climbing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques." Forest fire damage nearby. Irregular parking aprons may pose challenges for RVs.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides vault toilets, which some users described as adequate but not pristine.

Food Storage RequiredAll but one site include bear-proof food lockers. Use is strongly recommended due to bear activity.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed unless otherwise stated during fire restrictions. Store firewood properly.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Safford Police Department, Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, and the Coronado National Forest Ranger Station.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground features bear-proof garbage cans to ensure proper waste disposal and safety in this black bear area.

Water FeaturesNearby stream with generally running water.

Camp HostCampground hosts are mentioned in reviews but specifics are not provided. Host site is located near the trailhead.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

34 reviews

Satisfactory

Soldier Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are generally positive about the campground's scenic beauty, spacious sites, and natural features such as granite boulders and forest groves. However, issues with maintenance, such as restroom cleanliness and lack of water, were noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praised the campground for its beautiful natural setting, cool summer temperatures, and spacious campsites. Several highlighted the granite climbing rocks and the nearby trail to the ice...

Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of potable water, the inadequate maintenance of vault toilets (especially the men's facilities), and issues such as running out of toilet paper. Some users also...

Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific details are sparse, but many sites are described as spacious, with some better suited for tents due to wet conditions. A double campsite is available for $40 per night.

Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should bring their own potable water and toilet paper. It is advisable to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience. Additionally, hikers should explore the ice caves trail, which is...

Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular during mid-summer due to cooler temperatures in the mountains. However, it is closed from mid-November to mid-April due to snow, which limits access during winter.

Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The granite climbing rocks were the main reason we chose this campground." - Scott. "I've been coming here for over 30 years; it's one of my favorite spots." - Melissa Hinrichs. "The ice caves are...

Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground has wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, but no other specific accessibility features were mentioned.

Based on 34 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Desert dwellers chasing cool mid-60s summer temps will find this worth the 38-mile haul from Safford. Spacious sites handle family setups well, and the ice caves trail is a legitimate highlight that reviewers consistently single out.

Skip if

No potable water on-site is a real logistical commitment, and the vault toilets (men's in particular) draw consistent complaints about maintenance. Rigs over 22 feet will fight the irregular, erosion-worn parking aprons.

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Campgrounds

Coronado National Forest

Soldier Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Soldier Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

Campsites at Soldier Creek (<a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_MEDIA/fseprd684807.pdf">map</a>) are nestled in a forest grove where large granite boulders sculptured by the forces of nature help separate the sites and add to the area’s scenic beauty. Just a short walk from camp, an abrupt drop-off provides good views of the lower slopes of the Pinaleños, of the Aravaipa Valley, and the Galiuro and Winchester mountains.Soldier Creek is especially popular with campers during mid-summer because it is one of the coolest areas on the mountain. You can access the upper trailhead of <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coronado/recarea/?recid=25548">Grant Goudy Ridge #310</a> from the south end of campground near the host site.Note: Black bear area. Store and dispose of all food in bear-proof containers and trash bins, or keep it locked in your vehicle.

Open Season: April 15 – November 14