Campground Overview:
Bonita Canyon Campground is located in Chiricahua National Monument, known as the “Wonderland of Rocks.” Set in a pine and oak forest, Bonita Canyon Campground provides an atmosphere of relaxation. Most campsites are well shaded, and have a good view of the creekbed (usually dry) that runs through the campground. Visitors love Chiricahua for its stunning rock columns (hoodoos), hiking trails, and birding opportunities.
The park contains a historic district, and offers tours of Faraway Ranch, a restored 1900s guest ranch. The visitor center is open daily and provides interactive exhibits about the cultural and natural history of the park, as well as a park bookstore.
Campsites:
Bonita Canyon Campground was originally built by the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps, there are 25 basic sites and one larger group site available. Flush toilets and potable water are provided, and all campers have access to food storage lockers. All sites have a picnic table, grill, tent pad, and the group site has fire pit. There is no food, ice, or gas available in the park, closest town is Willcox, AZ.
Chiricahua National Monument is 45 minutes south of Willcox and 2 hours southeast of Tucson, AZ. From I-10 east, take exit 336 toward Willcox for 4 miles. Turn right onto Arizona 186 E (E Maley Street) for 31 miles. Turn left onto Arizona 181 E for 4 miles. Veer left onto E Bonita Canyon Road and into Chiricahua National Monument. The campground is 3 miles ahead on your left.
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Developed |
Season: |
Year-Round |
Nearby City: |
Safford |
Fishing: |
None |
Campground Website: |
Bonita Canyon Campground- Chiricahua National Monument |
Campground Map: |
Click Here |
Reservations: |
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Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
Chiricahua National Monument is truly one of the National Park Service’s hidden gems. If you are willing to drive the 37 miles to the park from the interstate, you will be surprised to discover a mountain wonderland of trees, charismatic wildlife, and amazing balanced rocks and towering pinnacles that make this place so awe-inspiring. Come explore, whether on foot on the miles of hiking trails or by vehicle along the scenic drive. The monument was established on April 18, 1924, to protect its extensive hoodoos and balancing rocks. The Faraway Ranch, which was owned at one time by Swedish immigrants Neil and Emma Erickson, is also preserved within the monument.
Chiricahua National Monument offers over 17 miles of hiking trails; a complimentary shuttle is available to transport hikers to several trailheads each morning. Birders frequent Chiricahua for the diversity of species that reside in or migrate through the area. The park also offers sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and ranges which make for stunning photography opportunities.
Chiricahua Wilderness is home to a fascinating diversity of both plant and animal life, as well as some of the Southwest’s most spectacular geology. Climaxed by 9,797 foot Chiricahua Peak, this 87,700-acre Wilderness covers the upper slopes and inner canyons of the largest mountain range in the “Sky Island” region. Here, you will find views international in scope set in an area that supports a variety of birds and other wildlife, some of which are more commonly thought of as denizens of subtropical habitats in Mexico or Central America. This natural cornucopia attracts nature lovers from all over the world. The sharp ridges, high peaks and deep canyons of the Chiricahuas once served as a home and refuge to Chiricahua Apaches led by Cochise and Geronimo. Later, the area attracted prospectors, loggers and ranchers searching to find fortune or a home with elbow room in America’s far corners. Today, the Chiricahua Wilderness with its extensive system of trails provides an opportunity for nature lovers to engage in a more gentle quest, one of self-renewal, inspiration and personal discovery.
Due to dense brush and timber growth, steep elevations, precipitous canyon walls, an undependable water supply few humans venture from the 13 established trails. Trailheads in Rucker Canyon, Turkey Creek and Cave Creek give easy access to the Wilderness, and the Morse Canyon Trail rewards hikers for their efforts with excellent views over some of the roughest country in southeastern Arizona
Hiking the Chiricahua Mountains
The best way to get in touch with the canyon is on foot. The Chiricahua Mountains contain numerous trails of all lengths and varying degrees of difficulty. When choosing a trail, an important consideration is the temperature and season in which you will be hiking. In winter, hikes in the canyon bottom and up to ~7,000 feet are pleasant. Above 7,000 you might encounter snow and it may not be possible to drive to trailheads at high elevation. In summer, hikes in the high country are delightful and the temperatures are cooler than in the canyon floor. In all seasons, be sure to carry adequate water and clothing, as well as emergency supplies (high energy food, first aid kit, etc). Some of the most popular trails include Cave Creek Nature Trail, Ash Spring Trail #247A, Silver Peak Trail #280, and the Herb Martyr Trail to Pine Park.
For more information Friends of Cave Creek Canyon and Chiricahua Mountains Hiking Trails are great resources for the area.
Nearby Campgrounds:
Campground full or want to see what’s around? Try one of these campgrounds located nearby
