Colcord Ridge Campground
Open year-round, first-come-first-served. No fees, no reservations. No potable water available; campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. 14-day stay limit.
Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order
Tonto National Forest implements Stage II Fire Restrictions and Emergency Recreational Shooting Order, beginning June 30, 2026 at 8 a.m.
Pinal City Riparian Area Off Road Prohibition
Temporary Pinal City riparian area closured on the Globe Ranger District.
About
Colcord Ridge Campground is a free, primitive campground situated at 7,600 feet elevation within a mixed conifer forest of Ponderosa pine, white fir, and Douglas fir. Located on the Mogollon Rim in Tonto National Forest, it offers a cool escape during Arizona's hot summer months. The campground operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Facilities are basic: vault toilets serviced weekly and picnic tables are provided, but campers must bring their own water as none is available on site. This is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out campground with no trash services. Trailers must be under 32 feet. The area offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities with black bear, elk, mountain lion, javelina, and deer in the vicinity. Trout fishing is available 5 miles to the east at Canyon Creek, near the Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery via FR 33. Winter temperatures can drop into the teens, so come prepared for cold conditions during off-season visits.
Directions
From Payson: Travel 33 miles east on paved State Highway 260. Turn right on unpaved Young Road/Forest Road 512 and continue 3 miles to Forest Road 33 (unpaved). The campground is at the intersection of FR 512 and FR 33. From Young: Take unpaved State Highway 288/Forest Road 512 about 23 miles north to the site.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 32ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (928) 474-7900 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Colcord Ridge Campground |
Photos
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