Arcadia Campground

About

Arcadia Campground offers 19 campsites nestled in a forest of tall ponderosa pines interspersed with Gambel oaks and Arizona walnuts at 6,700 feet elevation on Mount Graham. The diverse vegetation creates excellent habitat for birdwatching, making this a popular destination for birders exploring southeastern Arizona's sky islands. Historically, the Arcadia area marked the end of the first day's journey for early settlers ascending Mount Graham. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps established camps here while building Swift Trail (AZ 366), which still serves as the scenic access route today. The campground is the first recreation site visitors encounter when driving up from Safford. This is designated black bear habitat. All food must be stored in bear-proof containers or locked vehicles, and disposed of in bear-proof trash bins. Watch for poison ivy in the area. Pack and saddle stock are prohibited in the camping area. A maximum of 2 vehicles and 10 persons are allowed per site, with a 14-day stay limit.

Directions

From Safford, drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366. Turn right (southwest) onto AZ 366 (Swift Trail) and drive 11.6 miles to the campground entrance on the right side of the road. RVs and trailers should use caution on the narrow switchbacks. Check road conditions during winter months as the upper portions of Swift Trail close seasonally due to snow.