Globe sits in the Pinal Mountains of Arizona at about 3,500 feet elevation, where desert terrain transitions to pine forest at higher elevations. The climate shifts dramatically with elevation, creating distinct camping zones from high desert to mountain forest within short driving distances. Most campgrounds near Globe close during winter months, with Pioneer Pass and Upper Pinal typically open May through November.
What to do
Hiking near water features: At Burnt Corral Campground on Apache Lake, you can combine hiking with water activities. "The lake with the mountains in the background is breath taking. We went kayaking and just relaxed on the shore of the lake," reports Sandra S.
Bouldering adventures: Oak Flat Campground offers access to hundreds of bouldering problems through networks of dirt roads. "There is a hidden cave that had a water fall due to a recent rain. We would have never found this beautiful location had it not been for Carlos," writes Chuck E., highlighting the area's less-known features.
Mountain biking: The trails around Pioneer Pass Campground provide challenging terrain for mountain bikers. "The campground is nestled in a secluded canyon amongst the Ponderosa Pines and next to an intermittent mountain stream. The views on the drive up from Globe to the campground at 5,900 feet are gorgeous," notes Ryan D.
What campers like
High elevation escape: Upper Pinal Campground sits at one of the highest points accessible by car near Globe. "The trip to the top of Pinal Mountains is a journey, very cool and beautiful scenic views, the road is not the best, especially if you don't have a higher clearance vehicle," explains Michael L.
Solitude in small campgrounds: Campers appreciate the intimate setting at Sulphide Del Rey Campground. "Beautiful campground on a hill surrounded by pines. Gets completely silent at night assuming other campers behave. Perfectly dark except for stars between the trees and your fire," notes Rachel W.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites near Globe provide opportunities to see desert wildlife. At Pinal Campground, visitors often spot deer, squirrels, and various bird species. "While you are less than 10 miles as the crow flies from a major town the drive from town is about an hour," mentions Krista Z., highlighting the remote feeling despite relative proximity.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many campsites requires traveling on rough roads. "Do not go unless you have a 4x4 or are positive about the condition at the top. It was 67° in Globe this day. I have an E350 dually and I was sliding," warns Thomas P. about Pioneer Pass.
Limited amenities: Most forest campgrounds have basic facilities only. "There are 3-4 outhouses, no running water or amenities. To get there from Globe it's 7 miles of dirt one lane switchbacks on the side of the mountain," Jess B. reports about Pioneer Pass.
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from none to spotty across campgrounds. At Jones Water Campground, some visitors report limited service: "There is no WiFi, even if you have a yaggi antenna. There's enough cell service for text and phone calls (maybe/iffy) on the Verizon network," notes Carlos B.
Tips for camping with families
Safety around wildlife: Lost Dutchman State Park offers more structured camping with wildlife education. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," Rebecca G. mentions.
Campground layout considerations: Some campgrounds have unusual layouts that affect family camping. Michael L. notes about Pioneer Pass: "This campground was set up kinda weird, but worked out good. I would definitely recommend trying this one out, and I will definitely go back. Bathrooms were clean and sites were pretty roomy for our teardrop."
Water activities: For families wanting swimming options, Burnt Corral provides lake access. "There was a beach area on the grounds which was nice to play around and float about. The camp host, Nick, was great and the campsites and bathrooms were very clean," according to Tom W.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest campgrounds limit RV size. At Gila County RV Park, Lynn G. notes: "This review is for the Ash Street Location. This campsite had full hookups - water, sewer, electricity, and Wi-Fi. There was a dog park at the end of the park. It seemed like the layout was backwards in this location and for a very large fifth wheel, it took some jockeying to get in."
Hook-up availability: For those needing full hookups, options are limited near Globe. "For the price they could be great for kids getting into radios, for use around a larger property/park area, between vehicles in a caravan, or around camp," mentions Krista Z. about communication while at Pioneer Pass.
Turnaround space: Many forest roads lack adequate turning space for larger rigs. "Narrow road in with tight turnaround at the end for a long bed truck and teardrop trailer. Could be slippery when wet," warns B&L about Jones Water Campground.
