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Established Camping

Christmas - Gila River Recreation Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Christmas - Gila River Recreation Area is located near the Gila River in Arizona, featuring flat desert terrain with sparse vegetation. Temperatures can range from 40°F in winter to over 100°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and the historic town of Globe.

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Location

Christmas - Gila River Recreation Area is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

The Gila River recreation area is located along the Gila River and SR 77 north of Winkelman in Gila County, AZ, approximately 70 miles north of Tucson and 100 miles southeast of Phoenix. From Winkelman, take SR77 east to milepost 144.6 to the Christmas Recreation Site.

Coordinates

33.02194622 N
110.73911182 W

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Drive Time

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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Reviews

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2.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jan. 15, 2023

Closed

We planned to go here, even checked BLM website. Got there and it was chained closed with sign saying closed for public health and safety. Shores down the road was also closed.

Month of VisitJanuary

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Christmas Recreation Site?

Christmas Recreation Site offers basic amenities for primitive camping experiences. The site provides pit toilets for visitor use. The campground is designed for smaller camping setups, accommodating tents and very small camper vans. Sites are well-maintained and offer a rustic outdoor experience. While amenities are limited, the natural setting along the Gila River compensates for the minimal facilities. Visitors should plan to bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and other camping essentials as services are limited at this recreation area.

What recreational activities can I do at Christmas Recreation Site?

The Christmas Recreation Site offers direct access to the Gila River, making it ideal for water-based recreation such as fishing, swimming, and wildlife observation. The natural setting provides opportunities for hiking along the river, photography, and bird watching in the riparian habitat. Star-gazing is excellent in this relatively remote area. The well-maintained sites create a pleasant base for day trips to explore the surrounding area. Visitors should bring their own recreational equipment as no rentals are available on-site.

When is Christmas Recreation Site open during the year?

Christmas Recreation Site's operational status varies throughout the year and is subject to closures for public health and safety reasons. The site does not follow a fixed seasonal schedule. Before planning a visit, contact the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) directly to verify current open status. The recreation area may close with minimal notice, as indicated by chained entrances and closure signs. Weather conditions and river levels can impact accessibility, particularly during monsoon season or winter months. Always have a backup camping plan when visiting this area.

How do I access the Christmas Recreation Site?

Christmas Recreation Site is located along the Gila River in Arizona. Access to the recreation area may require verification before visiting as the site has experienced temporary closures. The recreation site can accommodate only small vehicles such as camper vans, and is not suitable for larger RVs. Visitors should check with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) before traveling to confirm current access conditions and any potential closures. Having an alternative camping option in the area is recommended in case access is restricted upon arrival.