Free Camping Collection
Established Camping
Colcord Ridge Campground
Colcord Ridge Campground, near Payson, Arizona, is a fantastic escape for those looking to beat the summer heat. This campground offers spacious sites surrounded by tall pines, making it a great choice for families and nature lovers alike.
With picnic tables and fire rings at each site, you can easily gather around for meals or evening campfires. Visitors rave about the stunning views and the active wildlife in the area, including deer, coyotes, and even wild horses. One camper noted, “AMAZING campgrounds if you’re looking to escape the heat in the summer months.”
The campground is part of the Tonto National Forest, which means you’re close to plenty of outdoor activities. Nearby lakes and creeks provide opportunities for kayaking and fishing, while the Mogollon Rim offers breathtaking scenery. Just remember to check fire restrictions before your trip, as they can change during the summer months.
While the campground doesn’t have drinking water or electric hookups, it’s a pack-in/pack-out site, so be prepared to bring everything you need. Some campers have enjoyed the convenience of the maintained dirt roads, making it accessible even for lower vehicles. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Colcord Ridge is a great spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Description
National Forest
Colcord Ridge Situated within a mixed forest of Ponderosa pine, white and Douglas fir, Colcord Ridge is a great place to go during the hot summer months. Trout fishing is available -- 5 miles to the east of Canyon Creek Canyon Creek Fish Hatchery -- 5 miles east on FR 33. Wildlife includes: Black bear, elk, mountain lion, javelina and deer. This site is a great camp site for youth first learning how to camp. Pack It In, Pack It Out.
Location
Colcord Ridge Campground is located in Arizona
Directions
Access #1 (36 miles east of Payson): From Payson, travel 33 miles east on paved State Hwy. 260. Turn right on unpaved Young Road/Forest Road (FR) 512 and continue 3miles to the site. Access #2 (23 miles north of Young): From Young, take unpaved State Hwy. 288/Forest Road (FR) 512 about 23 miles to the site.
Coordinates
34.27707688 N
110.84256667 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Colcord Ridge Campground needs a permit.