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Canyon Creek campgrounds
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Canyon Creek - photo by Tony Padegimas
In June of 2002, the Rodeo-Chediski forest fire burned nearly half a million acres during its three week reign of terror up, down and across the Mogollon Rim. Much of that damage is still visible in the northeast corner of the Tonto National Forest, but the four designated campgrounds in the area remain intact, even if open fields filled of charred logs are within walking distance.
The campgrounds can be reached following AZ 288 28 miles north of Young or, more likely south from its intersection with AZ 260 on top of the Rim, about halfway between Payson (41 miles) and Heber. AZ 288 is dirt through here (technically: all-weather gravel) and is also referred to as forest road 512.
From that road, take forest road 33 east to reach Colcord Ridge, Airplane Flat or Upper Canyon Creek campgrounds. Take forest road 188 (located a few miles south of FR33) to reach Valentine Ridge campground.
All of these campgrounds lie within bear country, not to mentions raccoon and skunks, and appropriate caution should be used. The area also supports mountain lions, elk, javelina and deer.
The Canyon Creek fish hatchery also lays on FR 33. The hatchery allows self-guided tours of the various concrete tanks holding various sizes of rainbow trout to be eventually released into the general watershed. They are open (to visitors) every day from 8am to 4 pm. The facility is also a logistical hub for Arizona Game and Fish operations throughout the region and contains some residence and building facilities that are not inbounds to the public. The hatchery can be reached by phone at 928-535-5475.
Canyon Creek, the perennial drainage through the area, is stocked with trout and open to fishing. However, only artificial flies and lures are permitted.
These campgrounds close due to winter from mid-October to mid-May. Forest roads 33 and 188 may require 4WD or chains if muddy or snowy.
Upper Canyon Creek and Airplane Flat campgrounds
View Canyon Creek campgrounds in a larger map
Return to Pleasant Valley hub page.
Tonto National Forest - Pleasant Valley ranger district
P.O. Box 450
Forest Road 63
Young, Arizona 85554
Phone: (928) 462-4300
Fax: (928) 462-4346
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