Is Colcord Ridge Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Colcord Ridge Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are first-come, first-served; availability may vary based on seasonal popularity.

What is the best time to visit Colcord Ridge Campground?

Colcord Ridge Campground is open Not explicitly stated, but summer months are highlighted as ideal.. 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 Colcord Ridge Campground?

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

Are dogs allowed at Colcord Ridge Campground?

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

What amenities are available at Colcord Ridge Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Colcord Ridge Campground?

Popular activities at Colcord Ridge Campground include Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Colcord Ridge Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Colcord Ridge Campground?

Fire policies at Colcord Ridge Campground: Fires allowed in designated medal fire rings unless restricted. User reviews note occasional restrictions such as no charcoal grills, only propane.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.30

82 reviews

Colcord Ridge Campground, Tonto National Forest, Arizona

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Scenic Views

Quick Facts

7,600 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,600 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Colcord Ridge Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

This is a no-fee site; no passes or fees are required.

No campsite fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

(928) 474-7900

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Colcord Ridge Campground, Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Colcord Ridge Campground

Colcord Ridge Campground, Tonto National Forest, Arizona

Nearby places

Payson (36 miles east, approximately 45-minute drive) and Young (23 miles north, approximately 30-minute drive).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are most readily available in Payson, approximately 36 miles away from the campground.

Driving directionsAccess #1 (36 miles east of Payson): From Payson, travel 33 miles east on paved State Hwy. 260. Turn right on unpaved Young Road/Forest Road (FR) 512 and continue 3 miles to Forest Road 33 (unpaved). Colcord Ridge Campground is at the intersection of FR 512 and FR 33. Access #2 (23 miles north of Young): From Young, take unpaved State Hwy. 288/Forest Road (FR) 512 about 23 miles to the site.

FR 512 is an unpaved road. Significant portions of the access routes are unpaved, with conditions varying seasonally. The campground is relatively accessible but requires careful driving on Forest Roads.

Weather at Colcord Ridge Campground

Current alert: Currently closed for a large-scale clean-up and restoration project; facilities cleaned once a week.

Best Time to Camp at Colcord Ridge Campground

Summer is the draw here. Daytime highs typically run 60s to 80s°F, nights drop into the 30s and 50s. It's a reliable escape from Phoenix heat. July and August bring afternoon monsoon thunderstorms. Weekends get crowded June through August. Spring and fall offer mild days and crisp nights. Winter closes most access with snow and teens-level cold.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Primary draw: pleasant summer temps (60s–80s) and escape from valley heat; monsoon afternoons possible.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated, but summer months are highlighted as ideal.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round; operational hours include quiet time from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

About Colcord Ridge Campground

Colcord Ridge Campground sits at 7,600 feet on the Mogollon Rim in Tonto National Forest, about 30 miles from Payson. The mixed conifer forest (Ponderosa pine, white fir, Douglas fir) keeps summer days pleasant while the valley below bakes. Sites are spacious and well-separated. Vault toilets and basic facilities. Rating: 4.4/5 from 82 reviews.

Colcord Ridge Campground offers dispersed camping with options for tent camping and RV access for trailers under 32 feet. "Dispersed camping and site camping," is noted by user MotoDoc ADV.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the draw here. Daytime highs typically run 60s to 80s°F, nights drop into the 30s and 50s. It's a reliable escape from Phoenix heat. July and August bring afternoon monsoon thunderstorms. Weekends get crowded June through August. Spring and fall offer mild days and crisp nights. Winter closes most access with snow and teens-level cold.

ElevationAt 7,600 feet above sea level, Colcord Ridge Campground offers a true high-country experience. This lofty perch along the Mogollon Rim provides naturally air-conditioned summers and winter wonderlands complete with seasonal snowfall, making it a year-round destination for those seeking mountain majesty.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a high-elevation setting where the Mogollon Rim's limestone cliffs mark the boundary between Arizona's desert and plateau country. Ponderosa pine, white fir, and Douglas fir create dense shade and fragrant air. Wildlife sightings include elk, deer, black bears, javelinas, and occasional mountain lions. Views stretch across the rim's volcanic formations. Winter brings heavy snow and temperatures into the teens, transforming the forest into quiet backcountry.

Geological RegionColcord Ridge Campground claims its spectacular setting within the vast Tonto National Forest, positioned strategically along the legendary Mogollon Rim. This dramatic geological feature rises to 7,600 feet at the campground, creating a natural boundary between Arizona's low deserts and high plateaus. The rim's ancient limestone cliffs and volcanic origins have fostered the growth of a remarkable mixed conifer forest, where Ponderosa pine, white fir, and Douglas fir thrive in the mountain climate, creating one of Arizona's most diverse and beautiful forest ecosystems.

Scenic ViewsUser reviews consistently highlight spectacular views of the Mogollon Rim and surrounding valleys. "This area has spectacular views of Mogollon Rim and the valleys below."

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations are described in the authoritative sources or user reviews.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

First-come, first-served, so no official check-in time.

Check-out

Departure dictated by first-come, first-served policy.

Stay Limit

14 days

Guests Allowed Per Site

Trailers under 32 feet permitted
no specific guest number mentioned.

Groups

Group camping options or restrictions are not mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutNumbered sites with reasonable spacing between spots. Campers note the privacy. Road traffic can be noticeable during the day. The layout isn't well-marked, so drive slowly when scouting your site.

Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone-based reservation systems; entirely first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; availability may vary based on seasonal popularity.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservation required; first-come, first-served.

Site SizeSites are spacious with reasonable distances between spots, as noted by various user reviews.

PrivacyCamp sites are described as being "pretty far from each other" by user Fierce Soloist, ensuring privacy.

Recommended SitesSites farther apart provide privacy; grills are functional but worn. Bring a scraper for cleaning grills.

Best CampsitesSite 13 gets consistent praise from returning campers. Reviews mention good views and privacy at that spot. Sites are generally far enough apart that you won't be on top of neighbors.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Restrooms Vault toilet(s)

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Colcord Ridge Campground

Camping at Colcord Ridge offers opportunities for dispersed camping and outdoor activities such as trout fishing and wildlife viewing. "Trout fishing is available -- 5 miles to the east of Canyon Creek Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery -- 5 miles east on FR 33," states the authoritative content. Wildlife spotting may include elk, deer, and even black bears.

Fishing4.0/5

Trout fishing highlighted 5 miles east at Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery; Willow Springs Lake nearby.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities3.0/5

Water Sports

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters with black bears and mountain lions. The ridge location is windy, and road dust can be an issue during dry conditions. "Bring a scraper if you plan on using the grills."

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

Fire PolicyFires allowed in designated medal fire rings unless restricted. User reviews note occasional restrictions such as no charcoal grills, only propane.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency service: Payson Ranger Station (1009 E. Highway 260, Payson, AZ 85541, Phone: (928) 474-7900). Closest medical facilities likely located in Payson.

Trash & RecyclingCampers are advised to follow a 'Pack It In, Pack It Out' policy, indicating no dedicated trash or recycling facilities on-site.

Water FeaturesTrout fishing available 5 miles east at Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery via Forest Road 33. Nearby Willow Springs Lake also provides fishing opportunities.

Camp HostNo camp host mentioned in official or user reviews.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is not explicitly mentioned in the source materials or user reviews.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.3

82 reviews

Satisfactory

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

User reviews for Colcord Ridge highlight its peaceful atmosphere, good views, and basic facilities, though some complaints include the condition of vault toilets and heavy day-time traffic. "The pits are nice. The toilets are what you'd expect," noted Fierce Soloist, while others like Josh Bodenhagen criticized the cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 82 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the spacious sites, privacy, and scenic views of the Mogollon Rim. "The views are spectacular," says Fierce Soloist. The campground's proximity to trout fishing at Canyon Creek is...

Based on 82 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints center around the condition of vault toilets being 'disgusting and full of flies' (Josh Bodenhagen), wind blowing road dust onto campers (Mark Handley), and occasional noise from heavy...

Based on 82 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 13 is specifically recommended as the best site by Michelle Poole.

Based on 82 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include bringing extra toilet paper, a grill scraper, and preparing for windy conditions. "Bring a scraper if you plan on using it," advises Fierce Soloist.

Based on 82 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews highlight snow cover and quiet conditions, while summer reviews emphasize heavy use and potential for strong winds.

Based on 82 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "It's nice and quiet. The views are spectacular." - Fierce Soloist 2. "Restrooms cleaned once a week." - Pauline Jorgensen 3. "The vault toilet is quite disgusting and full of flies." - Josh...

Based on 82 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews explicitly detail accessibility features.

Based on 82 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related experiences are not explicitly addressed in user reviews.

Based on 82 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Colcord Ridge Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

This is a no-fee site; no passes or fees are required.

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

(928) 474-7900

Go if

Phoenix-area campers chasing summer relief will find 60s-to-80s daytime temps here when the valley hits 110. Site 13 gets the strongest reviews. Trout fishing at Canyon Creek Hatchery is 5 miles east on FR 33. Free, first-come, 14-day limit.

Skip if

The campground is currently closed for a large-scale restoration project, so confirm it's reopened before making the drive. Even when open, vault toilets draw consistent complaints about flies and cleanliness, and there's no potable water on-site.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.2

(98)

Airplane Flat Campground

1009 E. Highway 260, Payson, AZ 85541

Airplane Flat Campground sits at 6,600 feet in Tonto National Forest, tucked under Ponderosa pines along Canyon Creek. The campground has 12 sites on a first-come, first-served basis, and reviewers consistently praise its natural beauty and seclusion. No potable water. Vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables are provided.

Colcord Ridge Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Campground Map

Weather at Colcord Ridge Campground

Best Time to Camp at Colcord Ridge Campground

Planning Tips

About Colcord Ridge Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Colcord Ridge Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

How campers graded it

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Overview

Ask Camp Sage about Colcord Ridge Campground

Best Time to Camp at Colcord Ridge Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Things to do at Colcord Ridge Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews