Campground Overview:
Granville Campground is a delightful camping destination nestled within the majestic Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Located in Arizona, this campground offers a peaceful and scenic retreat for nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors. This is the first campground of many along the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway stretching from Clifton to Apline.
Surrounded by towering pine trees and enveloped in the tranquil sounds of nature, Granville Campground provides a serene setting for camping. The campground is situated in a picturesque meadow, offering spacious campsites that provide privacy and a connection with the natural surroundings.
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Semi-Developed |
Season: |
Year-Round |
Nearby City: |
Show Low |
Fishing: |
None |
Campground Website: |
Granville Campground |
Campground Map: |
N/A |
Reservations: |
First-come, first-served basis |
Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway winds for more than a hundred miles from the twin cities of Eagar and Springerville in the north to the twin cities of Clifton and Morenci in the south. In between, the four-hour route follows the trail used in 1540 by Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado as he searched for the fabled “Seven Cities of Cibola.” This scenic route is considered one of the most picturesque drives in the United States, offering travelers stunning views of diverse landscapes, rugged terrain, and natural beauty.
U.S. Route 191, was originally dedicated as Route 666 and gained nicknamed The Devil’s Highway, passes through the Coronado National Forest and the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. The highway is famous for its twists, turns, and elevation changes, providing a thrilling driving experience and countless opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Highlights along the Coronado Trail National Scenic Byway include:
- Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest- Clifton Ranger District: The highway passes through these forests, offering picturesque vistas, dense woodlands, and opportunities for camping, hiking, and exploring nature.
- Morenci Mine Overlook: As you approach Clifton, you can stop at the Morenci Mine Overlook to witness one of the largest copper mines in North America.
- Historic Hannagan Meadow Lodge: The meadow was named after Robert Hannagan, a Nevada miner and cattle rancher. One local legend is that Hannagan was chained to a tree by the meadow until his debt of $1,200 was paid off. Fortunately, it was promptly paid by his son, but the name stuck. The Lodge restaurant is one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in Arizona, originally opened in the 1930’s. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served daily. Guests and visitors can enjoy a delicious meal by a warm fire with friends and family without leaving the property.
- Blue Vista Scenic Area: Located on the edge of the Mogollon Rim, Blue Vista provides breathtaking views to the south, including portions of the Blue Range Primitive Area and the various “Sky Islands” mountain ranges.
- Alpine: The highway ends in the charming town of Alpine, where you can enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and a cozy mountain atmosphere.
Driving along AZ-191 allows travelers to experience the diverse beauty of Arizona, from desert valleys to pine-covered mountains. The road is particularly popular during the fall when the changing colors of the leaves create a spectacular display. It’s a journey that captures the essence of the American Southwest and provides an unforgettable adventure for those who explore it.
The Clifton Ranger District is a part of the expansive Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, located in eastern Arizona. As one of the districts within the national forest, it offers diverse landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a rich natural heritage.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous activities to enjoy in the Clifton Ranger District. Hiking trails wind through the district, offering opportunities to explore the beautiful landscapes and discover hidden gems such as waterfalls, wildlife viewing areas, and scenic viewpoints. Numerous hiking trails are nearby including the Spur Cross Trail & Big Tree Trail.
Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines into the district’s lakes, rivers, and streams, which are home to a variety of fish species, including trout. Whether you prefer fly fishing, spin casting, or bait fishing, the district offers options for anglers of all skill levels.
Additionally, the district is home to several historic sites and cultural landmarks that provide insights into the area’s rich heritage. Visitors can explore remnants of old mining towns, historic buildings, and archaeological sites that offer glimpses into the region’s past.
Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area includes four perennial waterways, the Gila and San Francisco rivers and Bonita and Eagle creeks. This region is a very special riparian ecosystem abounding with plant and animal diversity. A canyon section, known as the Gila Box, is composed of patchy mesquite woodlands, mature cottonwoods, and sandy beaches. Impressive Gila Conglomerate cliffs tower more than 1,000 feet above the Gila River, and bighorn sheep are commonly spotted. Bonita Creek, a key tributary of the Gila River, is lined with large cottonwoods, sycamores, and willows.
Lower water affords hikers the opportunity to safely enjoy the scenic canyon. Numerous prehistoric and historical structures can be viewed. A network of primitive roads provides hours of backcountry adventure for four-wheel-drive and mountain bike trekkers. The Bonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing Area provides a bird’s-eye view of the riparian canyon below, with over 100 species of birds recorded here. A homestead cabin, rock art and cliff dwellings, show evidence of the occupation of this important perennial stream by earlier inhabitants. The perennial creek and riparian vegetation make the NCA a year-round desert oasis.
Nearby Campgrounds:
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