Cochise Stronghold Campground

About

Named for the legendary Apache chief who used these rugged granite spires as a refuge, Cochise Stronghold Campground occupies a scenic canyon in the Dragoon Mountains at 5,000 feet elevation. The sites are shaded by Arizona oaks and surrounded by a transitional plant community blending Upper Sonoran and Chihuahuan Desert species. The campground serves as a trailhead for several routes: the 0.4-mile barrier-free Stronghold History Trail interprets the area's Apache history, the Nature Trail explores local ecology, and the Cochise Trail climbs through the stronghold into more remote terrain. Black bears inhabit the area, requiring proper food storage. This is a primitive facility with vault toilets but no potable water, hookups, or dump station. Trailers are limited to 16 feet due to the winding access road. The campground operates seasonally from September through May, closing during the hot summer months of June through August.

Directions

From Tucson, take I-10 east approximately 72 miles to US 191. Turn south on US 191 and drive roughly 18 miles to Ironwood Road. Turn west on Ironwood Road and continue about 9 miles to the campground.