Colcord

For those of us Arizonans who crave a refreshing escape from the summer heat and a genuine connection with nature, Colcord Ridge Campground offers an ideal solution. Tucked away in the beautiful Tonto National Forest, near the edge of the majestic Mogollon Rim, this campground provides a truly rustic and authentic camping experience. Unlike many commercial campgrounds with extensive amenities, Colcord Ridge embraces a more primitive style, focusing on the natural beauty and tranquility of its surroundings. It's a fantastic spot for locals looking to unplug, enjoy cooler temperatures, and immerse themselves in the serene Ponderosa pine and fir forests.

Colcord Ridge is particularly appealing because it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and, notably, with no fees. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for many Arizona families and outdoor enthusiasts, encouraging spontaneous trips and budget-friendly adventures. It's a place where you can truly "pack it in, pack it out," embracing the principles of responsible outdoor recreation. The elevated location ensures a welcome respite from the intense Arizona summer, making it a popular choice during those warmer months.

This campground is part of the extensive network of recreational opportunities within the Tonto National Forest, providing access to diverse landscapes and wildlife. Whether your idea of camping involves quiet mornings with a cup of coffee amidst tall trees, exploring nearby fishing spots, or simply observing the local wildlife, Colcord Ridge offers the perfect backdrop. It truly embodies the spirit of Arizona's high country camping, providing a genuine wilderness feel without being too far off the beaten path.

Colcord Ridge Campground is located in Arizona, within the 85931 ZIP code area, which generally corresponds to the region around Young, Arizona, and accessible from State Highway 260. While the exact address is listed as "Arizona 85931, USA," more precise directions point to its location within the Tonto National Forest, near the intersection of Young Road/Forest Road (FR) 512 and Forest Road 33.

There are two primary access routes to Colcord Ridge, making it reachable from different parts of Arizona:

• From Payson: Travel approximately 33 miles east on paved State Highway 260. Turn right onto the unpaved Young Road (FR 512) and continue for about 3 miles. Then, turn left onto Forest Road 33 (also unpaved) and travel approximately 4.5 miles until you reach the campground.
• From Young: Take the unpaved State Highway 288/Forest Road (FR) 512 for about 23 miles to reach the site.

Reviews indicate that while the roads are unpaved, they are generally maintained enough for most vehicles, including typical sedans, to access the campground without significant difficulty, especially up until the turn-off for the campsite. However, as with any unpaved forest roads, conditions can vary, particularly after heavy rains, so exercising caution is always advised. The elevation of approximately 7,600 feet contributes to the cooler temperatures, making the journey worthwhile for those seeking relief from the desert heat. Its location within the Tonto National Forest ensures a true forest camping experience.

Colcord Ridge Campground provides a primitive, yet comfortable, camping experience, focusing on essential amenities rather than extensive hookups.

• Campsites: There are 15 designated campsites available. Most sites are spacious and designed to accommodate both tents and RVs/trailers up to 32 feet in length. These sites are first-come, first-served, so arriving early, especially during peak season, is advisable.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining outdoors.
• Fire Pits/Rings: Fire pits or rings are available at most campsites, perfect for campfires and cooking, allowing campers to enjoy the quintessential camping experience (always check for current fire restrictions, especially during dry summer months).
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available on-site, providing essential restroom facilities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to note that there is no potable (drinking) water available at the campground. Campers must bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and sanitation.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs at this campground. It is designed for self-contained camping.
• "Pack It In, Pack It Out": As a primitive, no-fee campground, visitors are expected to practice "Leave No Trace" principles, including packing out all trash and waste.

• Escape from Summer Heat: A major highlight for Arizonans, Colcord Ridge's elevation (around 7,600 feet) provides a significant escape from the intense summer heat of lower elevations, offering a much cooler and more comfortable camping environment.
• Stunning Views and Wildlife: Visitors frequently rave about the "amazing views" and the abundant "active wildlife," which includes deer, elk, black bear, mountain lion, javelina, and even wild horses. This makes it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography.
• Spacious, Spread-Out Sites: Campers appreciate the "spread out" nature of the campsites, which offer a good degree of privacy and a sense of solitude within the forested setting of Ponderosa pine, white, and Douglas fir.
• First-Come, First-Served & No Fee: The accessibility of being a free, first-come, first-served campground is a significant advantage, allowing for spontaneous trips and making outdoor recreation available to more people.
• Proximity to Fishing: Canyon Creek is located approximately 5 miles east of the campground (via FR 33) and is known for trout fishing. The Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery is also nearby and can be a fun, educational stop for kids. Other nearby lakes like Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake offer additional fishing and kayaking opportunities.
• Accessibility for Lower Vehicles: Despite being on dirt roads, reviews suggest the roads are maintained well enough that even vehicles with lower ground clearance (like sedans) can access the campground relatively easily.
• Beginner-Friendly for Youth: This site is noted as a "great camp site for youth first learning how to camp," suggesting a relatively safe and manageable environment for introducing young people to the outdoors.
• Mogollon Rim Access: The campground's location near the Mogollon Rim provides access to breathtaking scenery and additional recreational areas.
• Dark Skies: Away from city lights, Colcord Ridge offers fantastic opportunities for stargazing and enjoying truly dark night skies.

Address: Unpaved Young Road/Forest Road (FR) 512 and Forest Road 33, near Sycamore/Young, AZ 85931, USA (Managed by Tonto National Forest)

As a primitive, first-come, first-served campground, there is no direct phone number for Colcord Ridge Campground itself. It is managed by the Tonto National Forest. For inquiries about current conditions, fire restrictions, or general forest information, you would typically contact the relevant Ranger District Office:

Payson Ranger Station

Address: 1009 E. Highway 260, Payson, AZ 85541

Phone: (928) 474-7900

Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed noon to 1:30 p.m. and on federal holidays)

For Arizona locals, Colcord Ridge Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for an authentic outdoor experience. Its prime location in the Tonto National Forest, near the Mogollon Rim, provides a crucial escape from the intense summer heat that defines much of our state. The significantly cooler temperatures at this elevation make it a perfect retreat for those seeking comfort while enjoying the natural beauty of Arizona's high country.

The "no-fee" and "first-come, first-served" policy is a major advantage for budget-conscious families and spontaneous adventurers across Arizona. This accessibility allows more individuals and groups to experience the joys of camping without the need for advance reservations or financial barriers, fostering a stronger connection with our state's public lands. The spacious and spread-out campsites offer a sense of privacy and tranquility often hard to find in more developed campgrounds, appealing to those who truly want to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.

Furthermore, the abundance of local wildlife, from deer and elk to potential sightings of wild horses, adds an element of wonder to every stay. The proximity to excellent fishing opportunities at Canyon Creek and nearby lakes provides another layer of recreation. While basic amenities (vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits) require campers to be self-sufficient, this aligns with the desires of many Arizonans who prefer a more rugged and independent camping style. Colcord Ridge Campground truly embodies the spirit of accessible, natural Arizona, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking a genuine, cool, and memorable outdoor adventure close to home.