Pioneer Pass Camping Area
4.4524 reviews7680 S. Six Shooter, Canyon Rd. Globe, AZ 85501
Quick Facts
6,000 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
6,000 ftPrice
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
20 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Pioneer Pass Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
There are no fees required for camping at this site.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
Provider928-402-6200
What Campers Say
4.45
Recommended
Based on 24 reviews
67 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspaciouswell-maintainedsites
Some mention
bugs
"User reviews consistently praise the campground for its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and tranquil environment. Many highlight the lack of cell service as a benefit for a 'zen getaway.' However, some raise concerns about maintenance, such as eroded roads and benches in need of repair."
Fees & Passes at Pioneer Pass Camping Area
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 14 days
Prices verified November 17, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tonto National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Pioneer Pass Camping Area
Experience nature's perfect climate control at Pioneer Pass, where mountain breezes keep summer temperatures refreshingly cool while desert dwellers swelter below. As autumn paints the pines in golden hues, crisp air signals the approach of winter's transformation. Snow occasionally blankets this mountain sanctuary, creating a winter wonderland that may temporarily close access roads—nature's way of preserving the pristine beauty for those patient enough to wait for spring's return.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: The campground is open year-round, though it may become inaccessible during winter due to snow.
About Pioneer Pass Camping Area
Escape to Pioneer Pass, where four distinct camping clusters nestle among towering pine forests at 6,000 feet in the Pinal Mountains. This dispersed camping haven offers an authentic wilderness experience across its four unique areas—Granite, Toll Gate, Wagon Wheel, and Cattle Trap—each with its own character and charm. Whether you're seeking a quiet family retreat or an intimate gathering spot for your camping crew, Pioneer Pass delivers the perfect blend of accessibility and backcountry solitude beneath a canopy of mature pines.
Pioneer Pass offers dispersed camping with options for tent camping, equestrian camping, and group camping. RVs and trailers are not recommended due to the campground's rough roads.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect climate control at Pioneer Pass, where mountain breezes keep summer temperatures refreshingly cool while desert dwellers swelter below. As autumn paints the pines in golden hues, crisp air signals the approach of winter's transformation. Snow occasionally blankets this mountain sanctuary, creating a winter wonderland that may temporarily close access roads—nature's way of preserving the pristine beauty for those patient enough to wait for spring's return.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet above sea level, Pioneer Pass offers a natural air conditioning system that transforms scorching desert heat into gentle mountain coolness. This dramatic elevation change creates a unique microclimate where temperatures drop 20-30 degrees from the valley floor, making it an ideal summer escape and a refreshing basecamp for mountain adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient pines stretch skyward, their weathered trunks telling stories of centuries past. A gentle creek meanders through the camping area, its babbling waters providing nature's soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. The surrounding Pinal Mountains paint a dramatic backdrop, their rugged peaks and forested slopes creating an enchanting contrast to the Sonoran Desert sprawling far below. This rustic mountain paradise offers endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and soul-stirring sunset views.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonder of the Pinal Mountains within Tonto National Forest, where ancient volcanic activity and millions of years of erosion have sculpted a dramatic landscape. Pioneer Pass sits in the heart of this mountain range, surrounded by mature pine forests that thrive in the mineral-rich soils. The creekside setting reveals glimpses of the area's geological history, with exposed rock formations and water-carved channels that showcase nature's patient artistry in shaping this mountain refuge.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityOne campsite offers handicap accessibility with slopes of 5%-10% over compacted dirt.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some areas like Wagon Wheel offer larger, less defined spaces suitable for group camping.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is mixed; some users mentioned spacious and private sites, while others noted that campsites are scattered along the road and not clearly designated.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesToll Gate is mentioned favorably in reviews as a preferred area, with one user describing it as 'the best, imo.'
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Groups
Wagon Wheel area is suitable for group camping, with a larger space that can accommodate multiple vehicles and tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into four areas: Granite, Toll Gate, Wagon Wheel, and Cattle Trap. Each area has its own vault toilet, fire rings, and picnic tables.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, though it may become inaccessible during winter due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not accepted; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Users report that arriving early is recommended to secure a site.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pioneer Pass Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Trails like the Bobtail Spring and East Mountain Trails are accessible for various skill levels, providing opportunities for family outings and nature exploration.
Hiking
The East Mountain Trail, located 0.8 miles south of the campground, is a five-mile loop suitable for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Other trails like Bobtail Spring Trail lead to Pinal Peak.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on the East Mountain Trail, offering a five-mile loop.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding trails provide opportunities for observing wildlife amidst the Pinal Mountains' natural beauty.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to snow, which may render the campground inaccessible.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground has been impacted by fire damage in the past, although facilities and trees have largely been spared. Visitors are advised to exercise caution around any erosion or rutting in the roads.
Weather at Pioneer Pass Camping Area
54
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The Globe Ranger Station, located at 7680 S. Six Shooter, Canyon Rd. Globe, AZ, is the nearest point of contact for emergencies. Phone: 928-402-6200.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash service available. Campers are required to pack out all trash and leave what they find.
Proximity to water featuresA creek runs through the campground, adding to its natural appeal.
Common complaintsComplaints include eroded and rutted roads leading into the campground, as well as bugs during certain seasons.
Campground Map
7680 S. Six Shooter, Canyon Rd. Globe, AZ 85501
Driving directionsThis site is 9 miles south of Globe. From Globe, follow paved Jess Hayes Road to the junction of Icehouse Canyon Road/Forest Road (FR) 112 and Six-shooter Canyon Road/Forest Road (FR) 222. Continue on FR 112 for 2 miles to the junction of FR 55 and FR 112. Stay to the left and continue following FR 112 (which soon becomes unpaved) for another 6 miles to the site.
The final stretch of the access route becomes a winding, single-lane dirt road with turnouts approximately 2 miles past the stop sign at the intersection of FR 112 and FR 55. The road exhibits signs of winter erosion and deep rutting, making it unsuitable for RVs or trailers over 16'.Nearby places
Globe: 9 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and other essentials are available in Globe, which is 9 miles away from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
24 reviews
Pioneer Pass Camping Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the campground for its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and tranquil environment. Many highlight the lack of cell service as a benefit for a 'zen getaway.' However, some raise concerns about maintenance, such as eroded roads and benches in need of repair.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the clean and well-maintained vault toilets, spacious sites, and beautiful surroundings. The campground being free and offering fire pits with grill attachments is frequently noted...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough and eroded roads leading to the campground, the lack of potable water, and occasional maintenance issues with benches and vault toilets. Some users also mentioned...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Arrive early to secure a spot, as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Bring all necessary supplies, including water and firewood, due to limited amenities.
- A 4WD...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter snow can make the campground inaccessible, while summer offers a cool retreat from Phoenix's heat, with towering pines and comfortable temperatures.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This campground is a jewel. Hidden in a small pocket of the southern Tonto Forest, it’s a spot I’ll definitely return to.' - Cody Fincher
2. 'Lovely campground. Includes fire pits with grill...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Toll Gate is highlighted as one of the best areas within the campground for its proximity to Pinal Creek and overall scenic beauty.
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
Only one site offers handicap accessibility with compacted dirt and slopes of 5%-10%.
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no clear information about pet policies; one reviewer explicitly asked if dogs were allowed.
Based on 24 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 17, 2025
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