Pinal Campground

For Arizona locals seeking a refreshing escape from the desert heat and a chance to immerse themselves in cooler, pine-scented air, Pinal Campground near Globe, AZ, stands out as an exceptional destination. Perched at an impressive 8,000 feet in the majestic Pinal Mountains within the Tonto National Forest, this campground offers a dramatic change of scenery and temperature compared to the bustling cities of Phoenix or even Globe itself. It's a place designed for those who cherish tranquility, enjoy breathtaking mountain views, and desire direct access to an extensive network of hiking trails. If your ideal Arizona adventure involves serene nights and invigorating days amidst a lush forest, Pinal Campground promises a truly memorable experience.

What truly sets Pinal Campground apart for Arizona residents is its high-altitude location and the remarkable climate it provides. While much of Arizona bakes under intense summer sun, Pinal Campground offers a significant temperature drop, making it a comfortable haven. Visitors consistently praise the cooler temperatures, noting it can be 20+ degrees Fahrenheit less than in Globe or Miami, Arizona. This natural air conditioning, combined with the shade provided by towering ponderosa pines and white fir trees, creates an inviting atmosphere for camping, hiking, and simply relaxing outdoors. It's a vital escape valve for locals during the warmer months, offering a genuine respite.

Beyond the climate, Pinal Campground is lauded for its well-maintained, rustic charm. The dirt roads leading to and within the campground are kept in good condition, and despite the high elevation, they are generally accessible for any car, though they can be bumpy. This accessibility, coupled with the availability of numerous picnic tables and well-kept pit toilets, ensures a comfortable experience even in a more primitive setting. The feeling of seclusion and quietness, even during weekdays when few other campers are present, further enhances its appeal. For Arizona locals, Pinal Campground represents an ideal blend of convenience, natural beauty, and a peaceful environment for genuine outdoor recreation.

Pinal Campground is located in the Pinal Mountains, near Globe, AZ 85501, USA, within the Tonto National Forest. Its elevated position at approximately 8,000 feet (some sources also mention 6,200 feet for Upper Pinal, which is part of the broader Pinal Mountain campground area) provides it with cooler temperatures and stunning panoramic views. For Arizona locals, reaching the campground involves a scenic drive from Globe. From Globe, travelers will follow paved Jess Hayes Road southeast to the junction of Icehouse Canyon Road (Forest Road 112) and Sixshooter Canyon Road (Forest Road 222). Continuing on paved FR 112 for about 2.5 miles leads to the junction of FR 55 and FR 112. The journey then continues on a dirt road, which is approximately 9 miles long.

While the 9-mile dirt road to Pinal Campground is described as bumpy and winding with switchbacks and blind corners, it is generally considered passable for any car under dry conditions. However, drivers should exercise caution, particularly on sections with no guard rails, and be aware of oncoming vehicles, including dirt bikes and ATVs. Despite the challenging drive, the reward of reaching this high-altitude haven is well worth the effort. The travel time from Globe can be up to an hour due to the winding nature of the road and the need for minimal speed, but the scenic views along the ascent are a highlight in themselves.

The location within Tonto National Forest means that the campground is managed by the USDA's United States Forest Service. This ensures that the area is maintained for recreational use, providing access to an extensive network of hiking trails. While the campground offers a sense of remote tranquility, its relative proximity to Globe/Miami means that supplies and services are not an impossible distance away, allowing for practical planning. The combination of a challenging but rewarding drive and its position within a vast national forest makes Pinal Campground an accessible yet deeply immersive destination for Arizona residents seeking a true mountain camping experience.

Services Offered:

• Rustic campsites: Pinal Campground features 13 camp units (compared to Upper Pinal's 3-16 sites, often referenced together) suitable for tents, small trailers, and RVs (trailers generally limited to under 20 feet due to road conditions).
• Picnic tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Fire rings/BBQ Grills: Individual metal fire rings with fold-over grill grates are provided at each site for campfires and cooking (check for fire restrictions before use).
• Pit toilets/Vault toilets: Well-maintained restroom facilities are available, with multiple buildings serving different sections of the campground.
• No potable water: Campers must bring their own water for all needs (drinking, cooking, hygiene).
• No electricity: The campground is completely off-grid, promoting a traditional, rustic camping experience.
• No showers: Campers should be prepared for rustic bathing arrangements.
• First-come, first-served: Sites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations.
• Limited privacy at some sites: While many sites offer excellent tree coverage and seclusion, some may have less privacy depending on their layout.
• Pack it in, pack it out: No trash bins are provided; campers are expected to pack out all their trash to help maintain the pristine environment.

Features / Highlights:

• Very beautiful scenery: Praised for its stunning natural beauty, including majestic pines and rugged terrain.
• Significant temperature change: Offers a cool escape from Arizona's summer heat (20+ degrees cooler than Globe/Phoenix).
• High elevation: Located at approximately 8,000 feet, providing unique mountain vistas.
• Quiet and secluded: Ideal for avoiding crowds and noise, especially on weekdays.
• Extensive hiking trails: At least eight trails can be found within one mile of Pinal and Upper Pinal, offering spectacular views and diverse terrain.
• Great views during the drive: The winding mountain road up to the campground offers breathtaking scenic overlooks.
• Dense pine and white fir trees: Provide ample shade and a refreshing forest atmosphere.
• Historical significance: Sites were formerly used by the US Army as a heliographic signaling station in the late 1800s.
• Good for birding: The rich habitat is suitable for resident and migrating montane birds year-round.
• Great place for kids to play: Natural elements like big rocks, slopes, and sticks provide ample unstructured play opportunities.
• Opportunities for stargazing: Dark skies at this elevation provide excellent conditions for night sky viewing (not explicitly mentioned but implied by dark skies).
• Dog-friendly (implied by reviews for similar nearby campgrounds, but not explicitly stated for Pinal Campground itself; always check current regulations).

Contact Information:

Address: Globe, AZ 85501, USA (within Tonto National Forest)

Phone: (928) 402-6200

Note: As a rustic campground within a National Forest, direct on-site personnel may not always be present. The provided phone number is likely for the local Tonto National Forest Ranger District, which can offer general information on forest conditions, fire restrictions, and access.

For Arizona locals, Pinal Campground presents an unparalleled opportunity to experience the state's diverse landscapes and escape the often-intense heat of its lower elevations. Its location high in the Pinal Mountains provides a much-needed respite, offering significantly cooler temperatures and a beautiful pine forest environment that feels worlds away from the desert. This makes it an ideal spot for summer camping or for those seeking a refreshing change of pace at any time of year. The convenience of a well-maintained dirt road, passable by most cars, ensures that this mountain sanctuary is accessible to a broad range of Arizona residents, from families to solo adventurers.

The campground's emphasis on a quiet, secluded, and free experience is a major draw. In an era where many popular outdoor spots are becoming crowded and costly, Pinal Campground offers a refreshing return to basics. The generous spacing between sites and the presence of well-kept pit toilets and picnic tables enhance the comfort of this rustic setting. Furthermore, the direct access to an extensive network of hiking trails means that outdoor enthusiasts can immediately immerse themselves in exploration, enjoying breathtaking views and a variety of terrain. The potential for wildlife viewing and excellent birding opportunities add to the richness of the experience, connecting campers more deeply with Arizona's unique ecology.

In conclusion, Pinal Campground is exceptionally well-suited for Arizona locals who cherish a genuine, off-grid camping experience in a serene mountain setting. It offers the perfect antidote to urban life and a fantastic way to enjoy Arizona's natural beauty without traveling too far. Whether you're looking for a peaceful weekend getaway, an invigorating hiking basecamp, or simply a cooler place to relax under the stars, Pinal Campground provides a compelling and highly recommended option for anyone in Arizona seeking an authentic and rewarding outdoor adventure.