Accessible via dirt road from US-191, this small Apache National Forest campground overlooks the Gila River with approximately six sites charging $5 per night. The facility provides gravel tent pads, concrete picnic tables, large awnings, fire rings, and clean vault restrooms, though no hookups or water are available. Several sites offer views into Owl Creek Canyon, where the Gila River flows year-round.
A quarter-mile trail leads to a kayak launch and riverside picnic area along the water. The remote location keeps usage light, with campers often finding themselves alone at the site. T-Mobile provides decent cell coverage, and Forest Service rangers make regular check-ins. Note that pets are not permitted, and occasional mine blasting from nearby operations may be audible in the mornings. Campers exploring the region can find places to camp around Blue for additional options.
Description
On November 28, 1990, Congress created the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area. Four perennial waterways - the Gila River, Bonita Creek, Eagle Creek, and San Francisco River - are the lifeblood of this remarkable place. The Gila Box RNCA holds one of the most significant riparian zones in the southwest and offers tremendous recreational opportunities. Owl Creek Campground has 7 camping unit spaces, picnic tables, grills, ramadas, and restroom facilities available to make your stay more enjoyable. The campground is a stop on the Black Hills Back Country Byway.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundOwl Creek Campground is located in Arizona
Directions
Owl Creek Campground is located 10 miles south of Clifton within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area. The campground is located at the east end of the Black Hills Back Country Byway perched on a cliff overlooking the historic Old Safford Bridge.
Coordinates
33.4758 N
109.1889 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 6 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 6 users
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 4 hrs 16 min from Las Cruces, NM
- 4 hrs 47 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
- 4 hrs 49 min from Tucson, AZ
- 5 hrs 28 min from Phoenix, AZ










