Diamond Creek Number Two Campground

For Arizona locals seeking a truly rugged and remote camping experience, Diamond Creek Number Two Campground near Whiteriver, AZ, presents a raw and untamed corner of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. This campground offers a chance to immerse oneself in a landscape of rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, far from the typical amenities of more developed sites. While it promises an authentic wilderness adventure, it's important for visitors to approach with a strong sense of personal responsibility for the environment, as the area has faced challenges with litter.

Diamond Creek Number Two Campground is designed for the self-sufficient camper, one who values solitude and a direct connection to nature over modern conveniences. Unlike many managed campgrounds, this site appears to offer a more dispersed and less structured camping environment. This appeals to Arizonans who are seasoned in backcountry camping, comfortable with minimal facilities, and are prepared to pack in and pack out everything to maintain the pristine beauty of the area. The surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests offer vast opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the diverse ecosystems of Arizona's higher elevations.

However, it is crucial for prospective visitors from Arizona to be aware of a significant issue highlighted in recent reviews: the unfortunate presence of illegal dumpsites and trash in the surrounding area. While local efforts, such as those by the Rainbow Treatment Center, are commendable in attempting to clean up, persistent dumping by some individuals has marred parts of this beautiful landscape. This means that while the campground itself may offer a tranquil spot, visitors should be prepared for the possibility of encountering litter outside of their immediate camping area and, ideally, be willing to contribute to keeping the area clean.

Despite these challenges, the core appeal of Diamond Creek Number Two remains for those who seek true remoteness and a primitive camping experience. It’s a place for resilient Arizonans who understand the importance of Leave No Trace principles and are committed to preserving our state's natural treasures. If you are prepared for a rustic adventure and are willing to be a part of the solution in maintaining the cleanliness of our beloved outdoor spaces, then Diamond Creek Number Two Campground offers a unique wilderness gateway.

Location and Accessibility

Diamond Creek Number Two Campground is located near Whiteriver, AZ 85941, USA. This places it within the vast and diverse landscape of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests in eastern Arizona. The area is characterized by rugged terrain and varying vegetation, offering a different experience from Arizona's more arid regions, with temperatures ranging significantly between seasons – from highs in the 90s in summer to lows in the 20s in winter.

Whiteriver is the capital of the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, and visitors should be mindful that travel in this region may involve tribal lands and potentially require permits for certain activities beyond camping, such as fishing or hunting in specific areas. While the campground itself might be on National Forest land, the surrounding context of the reservation is important for local users to understand and respect.

Accessibility to Diamond Creek Number Two Campground typically involves driving on various forest service roads. These roads can range from paved to gravel or dirt, and their condition can vary depending on weather and maintenance. Given the "rugged terrain" description, a vehicle with higher clearance or even 4x4 capability might be advisable, particularly after rain or snow. Directions would likely involve navigating from major state routes like AZ-73 or US-60 towards the designated forest road leading to the campground.

The campground is situated approximately 12 miles from Whiteriver, which is a relatively close proximity for accessing basic supplies, gas, or emergency services if needed. However, once at the campground, visitors should expect a remote and isolated setting. This seclusion is part of its appeal for those seeking an uncrowded wilderness experience, away from the more developed areas of Arizona's popular recreation spots.

Services Offered

Based on the provided information and the nature of "Number Two" in a campground name (often indicating a more primitive or secondary site, or a site further along a road), and the limited positive reviews, it is highly likely that Diamond Creek Number Two Campground offers very minimal services, typical of a primitive or dispersed camping area. It's crucial for campers to be self-sufficient.

• Basic Camping Sites: Likely offers undeveloped or minimally developed sites suitable for tents or possibly small, self-contained RVs. These sites would typically include a cleared area for setting up camp.

• No Water Access: It is highly probable that there is no potable water available at the campground. Campers must bring all their own drinking, cooking, and hygiene water.

• No Restrooms/Toilets (Likely Primitive): Expect either no formal restroom facilities, requiring campers to practice Leave No Trace principles for human waste, or possibly very basic, unimproved vault toilets, if any are present at all. The lack of mention in positive reviews suggests this is not a prominent feature.

• No Designated Trash Collection: Given the "illegal dumpsite" issue mentioned in reviews, it's highly improbable that the campground offers trash collection services. Campers must absolutely adhere to a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy for all waste.

• No Utility Hookups: There are no indications of electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites, consistent with a primitive campground.

• Access to Natural Terrain: The primary "service" is providing a designated (or at least understood) area to camp within the natural landscape, offering access to surrounding forests for hiking and exploring.

Features / Highlights

Based on the very limited, and unfortunately negative, customer review, identifying traditional "highlights" is challenging. However, we can infer certain characteristics based on its classification as a campground and its location.

• Remote and Secluded Setting: For those seeking solitude and an escape from crowds, the campground's remote location likely provides a quiet and private camping experience. This is a common highlight for primitive sites.

• Access to Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests: The primary feature is its location within the National Forest, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing the natural rugged beauty of eastern Arizona.

• Authentic Wilderness Experience: It caters to experienced campers who are self-sufficient and prefer a less developed, more natural camping environment.

• Potential for Cooler Temperatures: Being in the White Mountains region, it can offer a cooler alternative to Arizona's desert heat during certain seasons, although summers can still reach the 90s.

• Open All Year: Information suggests these forest campgrounds often remain open year-round, allowing for winter camping opportunities (though access might be limited by snow).

It is important to acknowledge the significant negative "feature" or concern: the presence of "an illegal dumpsite" with "so much trash and dead animals" in the surrounding area. This is a critical factor for any potential visitor and implies a need for personal vigilance and a commitment to responsible outdoor ethics.

Contact Information

Address: Whiteriver, AZ 85941, USA

As Diamond Creek Number Two Campground appears to be a very primitive or dispersed camping area within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, direct phone numbers specific to the campground itself are typically not available. Such sites are usually managed by the U.S. Forest Service.

For any inquiries regarding regulations, current conditions (including fire restrictions), or potential clean-up efforts in the area, Arizona locals should contact the Black Mesa Ranger District or the main office of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Their contact information can typically be found on the USDA Forest Service website by searching for "Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests contact" or "Black Mesa Ranger District." This would be the most reliable source for information on this type of remote campground.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Arizona locals who embody the spirit of self-reliance and possess a deep commitment to environmental stewardship, Diamond Creek Number Two Campground near Whiteriver offers a particular kind of outdoor suitability. While it presents significant challenges, it caters to a niche group of campers seeking an unvarnished wilderness experience within our state.

Firstly, for the experienced and truly self-sufficient Arizonan, this campground offers a raw and remote escape into the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from modern conveniences and rely solely on your own skills and provisions. This level of primitive camping is often sought after by those who find solace in complete solitude and the unadulterated sounds of nature, far from crowded, amenity-rich sites.

Secondly, its location within a national forest provides access to a vast natural playground. For locals interested in extensive hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply exploring the rugged terrain of eastern Arizona, Diamond Creek Number Two can serve as a base for genuine wilderness adventures. The landscape itself, with its varied vegetation and temperature shifts, offers unique opportunities for exploration and appreciation of Arizona's diverse ecosystems.

However, and crucially, suitability for this campground comes with a strong caveat: the presence of an illegal dumpsite and significant litter in the surrounding area. For the responsible Arizonan, this isn't just a deterrent but an opportunity for civic action. Locals who are passionate about preserving our state's natural beauty might find purpose in visiting this area, not just to camp, but to actively participate in or support clean-up efforts (like those by Rainbow Treatment Center) and advocate for better waste management in remote areas.

In essence, Diamond Creek Number Two Campground is suitable for those Arizona locals who are not only prepared for a primitive camping experience but are also willing to confront and potentially help mitigate the environmental challenges. It’s a place for resilient outdoor enthusiasts who understand that enjoying our wild spaces sometimes means contributing to their care, making it a destination for truly dedicated conservation-minded campers.