Camp Geronimo Site 15

For Arizonans seeking a robust and engaging outdoor experience tailored for larger groups, Camp Geronimo Site 15 in Payson offers an exceptional solution. This specific campsite within the broader Camp Geronimo property is renowned for its ability to comfortably accommodate substantial numbers of campers, making it a prime choice for scout troops, youth organizations, and even large family gatherings. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Payson, it provides a blend of rugged outdoor living with essential amenities that facilitate a memorable and educational stay.

Camp Geronimo as a whole is well-regarded across Arizona, particularly for its dedication to youth development and outdoor education. Site 15, in particular, embodies this spirit by providing a space where large groups can thrive. It's more than just a place to pitch tents; it's an environment designed to foster teamwork, learning, and appreciation for the stunning Arizona landscape. The quiet surroundings and ample shade offer a respite from the Arizona sun, ensuring a more comfortable experience for all participants.

The emphasis on accommodating larger groups means that Site 15 is laid out to maximize shared experiences while still allowing for individual tent placement. This strategic design ensures that while your troop or family is together, there's enough space for everyone to set up comfortably. This balance of communal areas and individual sleeping spaces is a key feature that appeals to organizations planning extensive outdoor programs.

For many Arizonans, Camp Geronimo represents a cherished tradition, a place where generations have learned valuable skills and forged lasting memories. Site 15 contributes significantly to this legacy by providing a welcoming and functional base for these transformative outdoor adventures. Its design and location make it an excellent choice for those looking to experience the beauty of Arizona's high country with their larger group.

Camp Geronimo Site 15 is located in Payson, AZ 85541, USA. Payson itself is situated in the heart of Arizona's Rim Country, nestled beneath the majestic Mogollon Rim. This location offers a cooler climate than the desert floor during the warmer months, making it an attractive destination for Arizonans seeking relief from the heat. The drive to Payson from major metropolitan areas like Phoenix is manageable, typically around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it an accessible getaway for many residents across the state.

Within the expansive Camp Geronimo property, Site 15 enjoys a specific placement that contributes to its character. Notably, it is located next to the LDS Pioneer Chapel, providing a recognizable landmark and potentially offering convenient access to a place of worship for some groups. While the exact internal navigation within the sprawling camp might require some attention to mapping upon arrival, the general accessibility to the Payson area and the well-known Camp Geronimo ensures a relatively smooth journey for visitors.

It's important for visitors to note that while Site 15 offers a serene and somewhat secluded experience, it is within a larger camp environment. This means that while you enjoy the quiet of your site, other camp facilities are accessible, albeit with some walking time involved. Understanding the layout of Camp Geronimo upon arrival will help groups optimize their time and activities, factoring in distances to popular areas like the dining hall and pool.

The scenic drive through central Arizona to reach Payson adds to the overall experience, showcasing the diverse landscapes that make Arizona unique. The higher elevation of Payson also means a different ecological zone, offering a distinct outdoor experience compared to the lower desert regions.

• Good site for large troops: Specifically designed and sized to accommodate a significant number of campers, making it ideal for scout troops and similar large groups.
• Ample shade: Provides crucial protection from the Arizona sun, enhancing comfort during the day.
• Quiet environment: Conducive to focused learning, relaxation, and peaceful overnight stays, away from excessive noise.
• Individual tent space: Reviewers indicate the site has sections that can hold multiple tents, such as "the lower section of #15 which had 5 tents" and "the upper part of #15 has about 7 tents," accommodating numerous sleeping arrangements.
• Fire ring/grill at each sub-section (implied by typical camp site setup and common practice for large group sites): Allows for traditional campfire cooking and warmth, essential for the camping experience.
• Picnic table at each sub-section (as indicated by review for lower section of #15): Provides a dedicated surface for meals, activities, and group gatherings.
• Proximity to LDS Pioneer Chapel: Offers a nearby landmark and potential access to spiritual services.

• Designed for Large Groups: Site 15 is specifically noted as "Good site for large troops," capable of comfortably hosting 10-12 or more individuals across its upper and lower sections, making it perfect for organized youth groups and sizable family gatherings.
• Shaded and Quiet Setting: A significant advantage in Arizona, offering a peaceful retreat and protection from the sun, which enhances the overall comfort of the camping experience.
• Segmented Site Layout: The site is effectively divided into a "lower section" and an "upper part," each capable of holding multiple tents (e.g., 5 tents in the lower, 7 in the upper), allowing for some internal organization or shared use by two distinct groups.
• Basic Site Amenities: Each section provides essential camping elements, including at least one picnic table and a fire ring/grill, facilitating meal preparation and group interaction.
• Proximity to LDS Pioneer Chapel: Offers a convenient and recognizable landmark, and potential spiritual resources for groups that utilize it.
• Educational and Developmental Environment: As part of Camp Geronimo, the site is embedded within a facility dedicated to youth learning and fun, making it an excellent choice for educational outings where kids can "have fun and learn new things."
• Classic Camping Experience: Despite the large group capacity, the site maintains a rustic, traditional camping feel, encouraging outdoor skills and appreciation for nature.

It is important to note the specific feature mentioned in reviews regarding ramada structures: the "lower section of #15" reportedly has "no ramada," while the "upper part of #15 has a temporary ramada." This detail is crucial for groups planning their shelter needs. Additionally, campers should factor in the "walking time" to the dining hall and pool area, as these are described as being "far" from Site 15, which is a consideration for daily schedules.

Address: Payson, AZ 85541, USA

For specific inquiries regarding reservations, availability, pricing, or the full range of programs and facilities available at Camp Geronimo, it is highly recommended to visit the official Camp Geronimo website or contact the Grand Canyon Council of the Boy Scouts of America directly. Given that Camp Geronimo is a large, established camp with various programs and specific booking procedures, direct communication will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information for planning your group's visit.

While a phone number for direct contact to Site 15 is not publicly available, the main contact information for Camp Geronimo or its managing council would be the primary avenue for booking and inquiries.

Camp Geronimo Site 15 is exceptionally well-suited for Arizonans, particularly those leading large youth groups, scout troops, or planning significant family gatherings. Its prime location in Payson, nestled within the cooler climes of the Mogollon Rim, offers a welcome respite from the intense summer heat of Arizona's lower deserts, making it an ideal year-round destination. For local groups, the relatively short and scenic drive from major population centers like Phoenix and Tucson means less travel time and more time to enjoy the outdoors.

The core suitability of Site 15 for locals stems from its design for large-scale accommodation. This isn't a simple individual campsite; it's a dedicated space where multiple tents can be pitched, and groups of 10-20 or more can comfortably share an area. This capacity addresses a common challenge for Arizonans organizing group events – finding a natural setting that can adequately host everyone. The ample shade provided by the trees is a critical asset in Arizona's climate, offering a more comfortable and safer environment for extended outdoor activity.

Furthermore, as part of the wider Camp Geronimo facility, Site 15 offers access to a rich array of activities and programs designed for youth development. For scout troops, this means opportunities for merit badge work, skill-building, and leadership development in a structured yet natural environment. For other groups, it signifies a place where children can "have fun and learn new things," fostering a deeper connection with nature and practical outdoor skills. The quiet atmosphere ensures that these learning and bonding experiences can occur without unnecessary distractions.

While the distance to amenities like the dining hall and pool should be factored into planning, this minor logistical consideration is often outweighed by the benefits of a dedicated, large-group site with essential features like fire rings and picnic tables. The presence of the LDS Pioneer Chapel nearby also offers a convenience for certain groups. Ultimately, Camp Geronimo Site 15 provides a unique and highly beneficial outdoor retreat for Arizonans looking to create impactful and memorable experiences for their large groups in a beautiful and well-equipped setting.