Campground Overview:
Pinery Canyon Campground is a small, rustic dispersed camping area, located along Forest Road 42, which bisects the Chiricahua Range on the Coronado National Forest. This transmountain road provides the most direct route between the wildlife havens and spectacular cliffs of Cave Creek Canyon and the gravity-defying pinnacles of Chiricahua National Monument.
While you are visiting Pinery Canyon Campground, you may want to take advantage of some of the hiking trails that originate nearby. A short distance east on FR 42 at Onion Saddle, a short trail leads to an overlook with a panoramic view that includes Cochise Head Mountain, the Sulphur Springs Valley, and other mountain ranges to the west. Down the canyon, Ida Peak Trail leads to more impressive views, and Pinery-Horsefall Trail takes you into a remote area of cattle ranches and old mining claims.
Campsites:
Pinery Canyon Campground is a dispersed camping area, so there are no restrooms, tables, water, or camping fees. Come prepared to pack in, pack out all gear. There are many established sites with fire rings already put together. This camping area can be a great place to camp if the nearby Bonita Canyon Campground at Chiricahua National Monument is full.
Bear Warning: To avoid putting a bear’s life in danger and risking the loss of some of your own property, remember to keep all food out of reach and out of sight of these curious and powerful animals.
From Tucson, take I-10 east 81 miles. Turn right (south) on AZ 186 and continue for 23 miles. Turn left (east) on AZ 181 toward Chiricahua National Monument and drive 3 miles, then turn right (south) on Forest Road 42. Continue up FR 42 (Pinery Canyon) 11 miles to Pinery Canyon Campground. Forest Roads 42 and 42D are gravel roads suitable for two-wheel drive passenger vehicles, though high-clearance vehicles such as pickup trucks or SUVs are recommended.
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Dispersed |
Fees /Night: |
No Fee |
Season: |
Year-Round |
Nearby City: |
Sierra Vista |
Fishing: |
None |
Campground Website: |
Pinery Canyon Campground |
Campground Map: |
Click Here |
Reservations: |
First-come, first-served basis |
Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
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
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.
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
