Arizona / Yavapai County

Playground Group

Closed — Closed for winter. Typically reopens May 1. Forest Road 104 is gated during winter closure.

About

Playground Group Campground sits at 7,500 feet elevation near the summit of Mingus Mountain in Prescott National Forest, offering groups of up to 100 people a secluded mountain getaway shaded by tall ponderosa pines. Located next to a protected mountain meadow, the site provides a respite from Arizona's desert heat with pleasant daytime temperatures and cool mountain breezes. The campground includes 12 picnic tables, 3 large BBQ grills, and a large fire pit for group gatherings. Mingus Lake is a short distance up the road, and the surrounding forest offers many hiking trails of various difficulty levels, from easy short-distance walks to more challenging elevated climbs. The winding drive to and from the site provides spectacular views of the Verde Valley and nearby communities. Nearby attractions include the historic mining town of Jerome, now an artist and tourist community, Tuzigoot National Monument featuring ancient Sinaguan ruins, and Dead Horse Ranch State Park with mountain biking, canoeing, and fishing along the Verde River. The campground is centrally located in Arizona, making it convenient for exploring multiple western towns and natural areas.

Directions

Take Highway 89A for 7 miles southwest of Jerome or 13 miles east of Prescott Valley to Forest Road 104 at Summit Picnic Area. Take Forest Road 104 for approximately 1.5 miles. Playground Group Campground is on the left side of the road.

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