Stewart Campground

About

Stewart Campground occupies a cool, shaded streamside setting in Cave Creek Canyon within the Chiricahua Mountains of the Coronado National Forest. The campground lies beneath a mature canopy of Arizona cypress and sycamore trees, providing welcome relief from desert heat and creating habitat that attracts an exceptional diversity of bird species. Cave Creek Canyon is internationally known as one of North America's top birding destinations, drawing visitors seeking species like elegant trogons, Mexican jays, and various hummingbird species. The campground features pull-in sites suitable for tents and small RVs. Trailers are limited to 16 feet maximum length due to road and site constraints. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water from a hand pump, though water is turned off at the first freeze during winter months. No hookups are available. This is a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, so campers must remove all trash. Nearby trails include the Cave Creek Nature Trail and South Fork Trail, both excellent for birding and hiking. Black bears inhabit the area, requiring proper food storage in bear-safe containers or locked vehicles. Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in the campground. Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., and stays are limited to 14 consecutive days.

Directions

From Tucson, take I-10 east 139 miles to US 80 (crossing into New Mexico briefly). Turn right (south) and drive 28 miles, then turn right (west) on the road to Portal for 7 miles. From Douglas, take US 80 east approximately 50 miles to Rodeo, NM. Two miles past Rodeo, turn left (west) on Portal Road. From Portal, drive west on Forest Road 42 approximately 2.3 miles to Stewart Campground. All roads are paved and suitable for passenger vehicles.