Arizona / Coconino County / Coconino National Forest

Oleary Group Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates seasonally and is closed during winter months due to snow and cold temperatures at this 7,000-foot elevation.

About

O'Leary Group Campground was constructed in 2001 and named for O'Leary Peak, which overlooks the site. The campground sits on a bed of soft, flat volcanic soil amidst Arizona's ponderosa pine country at approximately 7,000 feet elevation. The area's unique volcanic activity is preserved at nearby Sunset Crater National Monument, while ancient Puebloan ruins at Wupatki National Monument showcase the region's cultural history. The campground features three designated group sites: the East and North loops accommodate up to 50 people each, while the West loop hosts up to 75 people. Each area offers ample level ground covered in native volcanic cinders ideal for tent camping, along with picnic shelters, tables, grills, electricity for small appliances, drinking water, and trash collection. The camping areas provide spectacular views of dark cinder cone peaks, thick forests, and open grassy meadows that bloom with wildflowers in spring and early summer. Popular activities include exploring the nearby national monuments with their visitor centers and guided tours, and hiking the 4.9-mile trail to O'Leary Lookout Tower. The steep climb rewards hikers with panoramic views of Flagstaff, the San Francisco Peaks, and the Painted Desert carved by the Little Colorado River.

Directions

From Flagstaff, take I-40 to exit 201. Turn left at the Page exit (Highway 89). Proceed north on 89 approximately 13 miles to the entrance of Sunset Crater National Monument. Turn right on Forest Road 545a and go 1.7 miles to Group Campground Road on the left (just before Bonito Campground).

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