Upper Wolf Creek Group

4.50

48 reviews

PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S CORTEZ ST, PRESCOTT, AZ 86301, USA

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$75 - $150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bradshaw Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$75 - $150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 1 to O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Bradshaw Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Upper Wolf Creek Group

$75.00 - $150.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group site fees range from $75 for 1-50 people to $150 for 51-100 people per night. Reservation fees include $8 (online or app), $9 (contact center),...

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$150.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1 (877) 444-6777

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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 48 reviews

41 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietspaciouslocationhiking

"User reviews for Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground generally praise its spaciousness, privacy, and suitability for group activities. The proximity to Prescott and surrounding natural features are also highlighted as positives."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S CORTEZ ST, PRESCOTT, AZ 86301, USA

Upper Wolf Creek Group

PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, BRADSHAW RANGER DISTRICT, 344 S CORTEZ ST, PRESCOTT, AZ 86301, USA

Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, Arizona: Traveling Northbound on I-17 take Exit 262 onto Hwy 69 North to Prescott and continue on Hwy 69 for 41 miles. Turn onto South Mt. Vernon Avenue (a.k.a Senator Highway) and drive south for about 6 miles. Pass the entrance to Goldwater Lake and the community of Groom Creek. The pavement ends about 500 feet before Forest Road 97. Turn right onto Forest Road 97 and travel for another 0.75 miles to the group campground on the right. Forest Road 97 is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. Alternate route from Flagstaff, Arizona: Traveling Southbound on I-17 take Exit 278 onto Westbound Highway 169 and continue for 15 Miles until reaching the junction of Hwy 69, turn right onto Northbound Hwy 69 and continue for 15 miles until arriving in Prescott. Turn onto South Mt. Vernon Avenue (a.k.a Senator Highway) and drive south for about 6 miles. Pass the entrance to Goldwater Lake and the community of Groom Creek. The pavement ends about 500 feet before Forest Road 97. Turn right onto Forest Road 97 and travel for another 0.75 miles to the group campground on the right. Forest Road 97 is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. Alternate route from Prescott: Take Hwy 89 (White Spar Road) south for about 6 miles to Forest Road 97. Turn left on Forest Road 97 and go another 5.5 miles to the campground; you will pass through the Ponderosa Park community along the way.

Forest Road 97 leading to the campground is unpaved but suitable for all vehicles during dry road conditions. "Beautiful site but road coming into and through the site needs some TLC as they're very rough." (User review: Anita Phelps)

Nearby places

Prescott (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Prescott, AZ (8 miles)—available for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Wolf Creek Group

Summer at Upper Wolf Creek brings nature's own air conditioning, with delightful daytime temperatures hovering between 75-82°F – perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. From late June through mid-September, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms roll across the mountains, painting the sky with spectacular clouds and refreshing the forest with brief showers. But don't let those warm days fool you – mountain nights have their own personality. As visitor Morgan L discovered: "Weather during the day was perfect! Night time tho was surprisingly cold." Evening temperatures can plummet to a crisp 44°F, even when forecasts predict a mild 58°F, so pack those extra layers and prepare for cozy campfire evenings under star-filled skies.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Pleasant daytime temps (75–82°F) and blooms; summer is a primary season though afternoon storms possible.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Gambel oaks paint mountains gold in fall; scenic season with cooler nights noted.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Late spring brings blooms and pleasant weather; campground opens May 1 (late-spring seasonality).

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed outside May 1–Oct 31; winter camping not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 1 to October 31, reservable from June 20 through October 31.
Current Alerts: No alerts currently listed.

About Upper Wolf Creek Group

Escape to Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, where towering pines create a natural cathedral for your next gathering. Just 8 miles from historic Prescott, this forest sanctuary welcomes groups of up to 100 people into its peaceful embrace. Picture your crew spreading out across spacious sites, setting up volleyball games on the open meadow, or gathering around for evening horseshoe tournaments. As one satisfied visitor, Morgan L, shared: "The campground is very nice. We had a group of about 15 and got the group site to have lots of room and privacy." Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout retreat, or celebration with friends, this secluded haven offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness solitude.

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping, accommodating large groups with tent or RV setups. It does not offer cabin lodging or glamping options.

Historical SignificanceYour basecamp at Upper Wolf Creek places you at the doorstep of Arizona's rich frontier heritage. The nearby town of Prescott, once the territorial capital, beckons with its Victorian charm and Wild West stories. Take a short drive to discover the historic Groom Creek Schoolhouse, now a charming day-use picnic area where the echoes of one-room schoolhouse days still linger among the pines. This region has long been a gathering place – from Native American peoples who first called these mountains home, to miners and ranchers who shaped the Old West, to modern adventurers seeking respite in these timeless forests.

Weather and SeasonsSummer at Upper Wolf Creek brings nature's own air conditioning, with delightful daytime temperatures hovering between 75-82°F – perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. From late June through mid-September, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms roll across the mountains, painting the sky with spectacular clouds and refreshing the forest with brief showers. But don't let those warm days fool you – mountain nights have their own personality. As visitor Morgan L discovered: "Weather during the day was perfect! Night time tho was surprisingly cold." Evening temperatures can plummet to a crisp 44°F, even when forecasts predict a mild 58°F, so pack those extra layers and prepare for cozy campfire evenings under star-filled skies.

ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Upper Wolf Creek offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean. This elevation transforms summer camping into a cool escape from desert heat below, while afternoon thunderstorms sweep across the peaks, bringing drama to blue skies. The thin mountain air means you'll sleep soundly under more stars than you knew existed, though you might find yourself catching your breath on those first uphill hikes as your body adjusts to the altitude.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where majestic ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark catching golden afternoon light. The forest floor comes alive with the twisted beauty of juniper trees and the seasonal dance of Gambel oaks, which paint the mountainsides gold each fall. Native grasses sway between ancient boulders, while spring and summer monsoons awaken carpets of wildflowers in brilliant yellows, purples, and reds. As MELISSA W enthusiastically noted: "Beautiful site! Amazing hikes and Froggy Falls is always worth it." The surrounding Bradshaw Mountains offer endless exploration, from hidden waterfalls to panoramic vistas that remind you why Arizona's high country remains one of the Southwest's best-kept secrets.

Geological RegionWelcome to the Bradshaw Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning diversity. Upper Wolf Creek sits within this dramatic terrain, where weathered granite boulders tell stories of volcanic upheavals millions of years old. The campground's 6,000-foot perch showcases nature's perfect forest recipe: majestic ponderosa pines dominate the canopy, while aromatic junipers and graceful Gambel oaks fill the understory. Native bunch grasses carpet the forest floor between massive boulders, creating natural gardens that burst with seasonal wildflowers. This unique ecosystem represents a transition zone where desert meets mountain, creating a biodiversity hotspot that delights both casual nature lovers and serious botanists alike.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 nights within 30 consecutive days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 100 people per group site.

Groups

The group site can accommodate up to 100 people, though user reviews suggest it is more comfortable for smaller gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe group site contains 13 picnic tables, five grills, and one campfire ring, with dispersed fire pits and room for RV parking up to 40 feet.

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online platform, app, or by phone at 1 (877) 444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo information available.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) also forfeit the first night’s use fee. Changes to reservations have a $10 fee if outside original reservation dates.

AccessibilityThe site is not fully accessible, though the toilet facilities are described as accessible.

Site SizeThe group area accommodates up to 100 people, though user reviews suggest it's more comfortable for smaller groups. RVs up to 40 feet can be accommodated.

PrivacyThe campground has thinly spaced trees in some areas, providing moderate privacy while allowing space for group activities.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring warm clothing for nighttime, hand sanitizer, wipes, and backup toilet paper for larger groups. Canopies recommended for shade during the day.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a mix of recreational activities, from on-site games like volleyball and horseshoes to nearby hiking and mountain biking trails. Goldwater Lake nearby supports boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Wildlife viewing is also possible, with deer and a variety of birds being common sightings.

HikingNumerous trails are available within the Bradshaw Mountains surrounding the campground. Trails vary in difficulty and are suitable for both hiking and mountain biking.

FishingFishing is available at the nearby Goldwater Lake, where anglers can catch trout, sunfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.

BikingMountain biking trails in the Bradshaw Mountains offer scenic views and varying levels of difficulty.

BoatingGoldwater Lake, located a few miles from the campground, provides opportunities for boating, canoeing, and kayaking. The lake has a dock and boat ramp.

Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and a variety of birds. User reviews also mention wild pigs and coyotes near campsites.

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife encounters include deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, wild pigs, and snakes. "Some wild pigs came and ate some of our food before we put it in our cars for the night." (User review: Morgan L) "Coyotes running around our site." (User review: Libby Short)

Active AlertsNo alerts currently listed.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed in developed fire pits only. Fireworks prohibited year-round.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesBradshaw Ranger District Office: General inquiries available at 928-443-8000. Emergency services nearest located in Prescott.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available, though users noted limited capacity. Campers are encouraged to pack out excess garbage.

Water FeaturesWithin a few miles of Goldwater Lake, offering boating, kayaking, fishing, and hiking opportunities.

Camp HostRangers from Bradshaw Ranger District are available for inquiries or emergencies via phone. Lock combinations for gates are provided upon reservation.

Weather at Upper Wolf Creek Group

Reviews

4.5

48 reviews

Recommended

Upper Wolf Creek Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground generally praise its spaciousness, privacy, and suitability for group activities. The proximity to Prescott and surrounding natural features are also highlighted as positives.

Review Summaries

Based on 48 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the spacious group site, the availability of amenities like picnic tables and fire pits, and the secluded, quiet location. Wildlife sightings and nearby hiking trails receive...

Based on 48 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the lack of water and electricity, the poor condition of the horseshoe pit, and occasional issues with trash capacity. The unpaved road leading to the campground was also mentioned...

Based on 48 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, firewood, hand sanitizer, and room spray. Prepare for cold nights even in summer, and secure food to avoid wildlife encounters. Verify cell service availability if needed.

Based on 48 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Camping in summer is appreciated for pleasant daytime temperatures and natural blooms, but cold nights are common. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from late June to mid-September. Winter camping...

Based on 48 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The weather during the day was perfect! Plenty of trees for shade... Weather was probably 75-82." "Bathrooms were not super gross, it is vault, the hotter the day is the more it smells." "We did not...

Based on 48 reviews