Thumb Butte

Star0.15
11 reviews
Thumb Butte

Quick Facts

5,700 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Electric

Opens Bradshaw Ranger District, Prescott National Forest site

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Thumb Butte
No fees available
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Provider
General site questions: 1 (928) 443-8000; Reservations: 1 (877) 444-6777

What Campers Say

0.15

Mixed Reviews

Based on 11 reviews

Most mentioned

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"Reviewers overwhelmingly love Thumb Butte for its beautiful, well‑maintained hiking trails with big views of Prescott and surrounding mountains, along with a popular group day‑use/picnic site. Hikes are described as short but steep with good cardio, and the day‑use area is seen as a great spot for reunions and group picnics. A few visitors note occasional cleanliness issues at the ramada and remind others that this is a day‑use area only, not a campground."

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Best Time to Camp at Thumb Butte

The high-elevation setting brings pleasant summer days perfect for outdoor gatherings, while winter transforms the pines into a snow-dusted wonderland with cool to cold temperatures. If you're visiting between late June and mid-September, keep an eye on afternoon skies—dramatic thunderstorms often roll through, bringing brief but intense downpours and the fresh scent of rain on pine needles.

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: Year-round

About Thumb Butte

Nestled in a fragrant ponderosa pine forest just 4 miles west of Prescott, Thumb Butte Group Picnic Area offers a shaded mountain retreat where groups of up to 100 can gather beneath towering pines. This year-round facility sits at the foot of the iconic Thumb Butte rock formation, serving as both a peaceful gathering spot and a gateway to scenic trails that wind through the Prescott National Forest.
Thumb Butte is a group picnic facility intended for day-use group gatherings rather than individual campsites or lodging.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-elevation setting brings pleasant summer days perfect for outdoor gatherings, while winter transforms the pines into a snow-dusted wonderland with cool to cold temperatures. If you're visiting between late June and mid-September, keep an eye on afternoon skies—dramatic thunderstorms often roll through, bringing brief but intense downpours and the fresh scent of rain on pine needles.
ElevationAt approximately 5,700 feet, the picnic area occupies a sweet spot in the transition zone where ponderosa pines thrive in the cool mountain air. This elevation provides a refreshing escape from lower desert heat while remaining accessible year-round, situated perfectly at the base of Thumb Butte with Miller Creek flowing nearby.
Natural Features and SceneryThe towering ponderosa pines create a cathedral-like canopy above the picnic area, their vanilla-scented bark and rustling needles providing natural ambiance to any gathering. The dramatic Thumb Butte rock formation rises just beyond, its distinctive profile dominating the skyline, while the gentle sounds of Miller Creek add a soothing soundtrack. Wildlife sightings are common here—mule deer often browse through at dawn and dusk, while the forest shelters mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and foxes. Smaller residents like rabbits dart between trees, lizards sun themselves on rocks, and various snake species navigate the understory, while dozens of bird species fill the air with song.
Geological RegionThe picnic area sits within the Prescott National Forest's diverse landscape, positioned at the base of Thumb Butte—a distinctive volcanic rock formation that has become a landmark of the region. Miller Creek's presence nearby reveals the erosive forces that have shaped this terrain over millennia, carving through ancient volcanic and sedimentary layers to create the varied topography that defines this corner of Arizona's central highlands.
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Campsite details

Total Campsitesnull campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring your own horseshoes for the horseshoe pits. Pack out trash due to limited trash collection. Note the 20 amp maximum for provided electric outlets.

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Reserving a campsite

Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 100 people
Groups
Designed for groups of up to 100 people with a year-round pavilion, covered shelter, parking for 26 standard vehicles, restroom facilities, potable water and reservation capability.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFacility includes a covered picnic shelter (pavilion), 12 picnic tables, 1 serving table, four charcoal grills, one campfire ring, restrooms with flush toilets, designated gated parking for 26 standard-size vehicles, lighting after dark, and electric outlet(s) (20 amp maximum).
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round
Reservation PlatformsReservations via phone at 1 (877) 444-6777 or through the site's online 'availability' reservation button (as indicated on the facility page).

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

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups

Activities you can enjoy

The Thumb Butte area offers a range of outdoor recreation including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and horseback riding, with many trails within a short walk or drive and two trails that ascend Thumb Butte. The picnic site also provides horseshoe pits (bring your own horseshoes) and opportunities for wildlife viewing along Miller Creek and in the ponderosa pine forest.
Hiking
Numerous nearby trails, including two that ascend Thumb Butte, are accessible within a short walk or drive.
Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
Biking
Area is popular for mountain biking with trails located close to the picnic area.
Wildlife viewing
Ponderosa pine forest habitat near Miller Creek supports deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, foxes, rabbits, lizards, snakes and many bird species.
Winter Activities
Winter is cool to cold with occasional snow; conditions may allow winter hiking or viewing but no specific winter programs are described.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • The site provides four charcoal grills and one campfire ring. No specific fire restrictions or bans are listed in the provided information.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife hazards include mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes and snakes. Afternoon thunderstorms can occur from late June through mid-September. No additional hazard warnings are provided.

Weather at Thumb Butte

53
°F
Dec 11
Thursday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Humidity: 33%
Wind: 3.4 mph
Clear sky

Weather History
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Good to know

Trash and recyclingTrash collection is limited; guests are encouraged to pack out their own trash.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Miller Creek; drinking water is available at the site.

Campground Map

Thumb Butte
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. Once in Prescott, go west on Hwy 69 which turns into Gurley St., which then becomes Thumb Butte Road, and travel 2.2 miles to the picnic area entrance. 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. Once in Prescott, go west on Hwy 69 which turns into Gurley St., which then becomes Thumb Butte Road, and travel 2.2 miles to the picnic area entrance.
Accessible via Hwy 69 (Gurley St. in Prescott) which becomes Thumb Butte Road; reachable from I-17 via Exit 262 (Phoenix) or Exit 278/Highway 169 (Flagstaff) as described in driving directions.
Nearby places
Prescott: about 4 miles east of the site. From Phoenix: travel roughly 41 miles on Hwy 69 to Prescott, then 2.2 miles on Thumb Butte Road to the site. From Flagstaff: travel 15 miles on Hwy 169 to Hwy 69, then 15 miles to Prescott, then 2.2 miles on Thumb Butte Road to the site.
Nearby supplies
Supplies, restaurants, shopping and historic sites are available in the town of Prescott (nearest commercial services).

Reviews from booking and map sources

0.2
11 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Thumb Butte has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviewers overwhelmingly love Thumb Butte for its beautiful, well‑maintained hiking trails with big views of Prescott and surrounding mountains, along with a popular group day‑use/picnic site. Hikes are described as short but steep with good cardio, and the day‑use area is seen as a great spot for reunions and group picnics. A few visitors note occasional cleanliness issues at the ramada and remind others that this is a day‑use area only, not a campground.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praise the “beautiful” scenery, forest smells, wildlife, and especially the expansive views of Prescott and nearby mountains from the top. The trail system is described as well maintained,...
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Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

A few reviewers mention maintenance and cleanliness problems at the group picnic ramada on at least one occasion, including dirty tables and debris that required them to clean the area themselves, as...
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Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Several hikers recommend going counter‑clockwise or starting to the right on the loop for an easier overall climb and to face the best views on the way down. Multiple reviews stress bringing plenty...
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Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Several winter/early spring reviews note icy sections on the paved front side of the trail that can be hard to traverse, though usually not enough to be dangerous if you’re cautious. A late‑summer...
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Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Best hike in Prescott if you want a short hike with great views and good cardio." "Beautiful trail. Leg burnout! You have a $5 day use fee, Wednesday are free. Great views!" "The picnic area at...
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Based on 11 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site A in Loop THUM is consistently described as an excellent group day‑use spot, especially for reunions, family parties, and group picnics, with good views of the trails and a pleasant pine‑shaded...
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Based on 11 reviews

Accessibility Features

One detailed review of the group picnic/day‑use area notes that parking is great with handicapped spaces close to the ramada and that wheelchair access is good. The front side of the main hiking...
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Based on 11 reviews

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Last updated December 10, 2025
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