Campground Overview:
Hidden in the heart of Haigler Canyon Recreation Area, Alderwood Campground offers a peaceful, streamside escape south of Highway 260 in Arizona’s Tonto National Forest. With its shaded setting, trout-filled creek, and natural swimming holes, this lightly developed campground is a favorite for families seeking solitude and water-based fun.
While there are no designated campsites, campers will find plenty of flat, shaded areas for tents or small RVs. Haigler Canyon Campground is located just down the road and offers a similar forested retreat.
Campsite Details
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Campsites: Undesignated (dispersed camping in shaded areas)
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Amenities: Vault toilet only – no water or trash services
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Campground Type: Semi-developed
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Trash: Pack it in, pack it out
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Access: Last 6.5 miles are on unpaved forest roads
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Semi-Developed |
Season: |
Year-Round |
Nearby City: |
Payson |
Fishing: |
Haigler Creek |
Campground Website: |
Alderwood Campground |
Campground Map: |
N/A |
Reservations: |
First-come, first-served basis |
Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
Haigler Canyon recreation site sits along perennial the Haigler Creek, just north of the small ranching town of Young and beneath the Mogollon Rim, the 2,000-foot escarpment that separates the Colorado Plateau from the lower valleys and deserts. The creek is fed by natural springs and stocked with rainbow trout in the springtime. If you are looking for stream-side camping, fishing, and pools to take a dip, look no further.
Hellsgate Wilderness Area was established in 1984, and contains approximately 37,440 rough acres with a major canyon and perennial stream extending its entire length. Deep pools of water may be separated by impassable falls. Elevations range from 3,000 feet along the lower end of Tonto Creek to 6,400 feet on Horse Mountain. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit this area, however trails are rare and access is limited. If hiking is your thing, some popular trails include: Hell’s Gate Trail #37, Bear Flat Trail #178, and Pocket Trail #38
Nearby Campgrounds:
Campground full or want to see what’s around? Try one of these campgrounds located nearby
