Camping at Groom Creek Horse Campground

Location and Accessibility

Groom Creek Horse Campground is situated within Prescott National Forest, in central Arizona near the city of Prescott. It's located off Senator Highway (Forest Road 52), south of Prescott. The campground's mountainous setting at an elevation of about 6,000 feet affords pleasant temperatures for much of the year. However, accessibility can be affected by seasonal weather conditions, so always check local road conditions before planning your trip, especially during winter months.

Camping and Horse Facilities

The campground is specifically designed for campers with horses. It offers a limited number of camp units each with a corral, providing ample space for campers to bring their equine companions. Many sites can accommodate more than one horse and more than one vehicle. The facilities include:

• Corrals: Each campsite typically has a four-horse corral.
• Camp Sites: The campground has sites that vary in size and can accommodate different group sizes.
• Water: Potable water is typically provided for both humans and horses, but availability can vary, so always confirm before you go.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each camping site features a picnic table and fire ring.

Activities

• Horseback Riding: Obviously, a primary activity here is horseback riding. There are numerous trails that you can explore. The Groom Creek Loop Trail #307 is a popular choice for many riders.
• Hiking and Biking: Non-equestrian visitors also use the trails for hiking and mountain biking.
• Bird Watching and Wildlife Viewing: The forest is home to various wildlife and is a good spot for bird watching.
• Photography: Nature enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate the scenic vistas and forested surroundings.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: Campsites at Groom Creek Horse Campground are in demand, so it’s advisable to make reservations well in advance of your trip.
• Fees: There is a fee for using the campground, which varies depending on the site and the type of service required. These fees are used for the maintenance of the facilities and services provided there.

Regulations

• Stay Limit: There is generally a limit on how long you can stay. Typically, it is 14 days within any 30-day period.
• Pets: Pets are usually welcome but they must be kept on a leash.
• Campfires: Campfires are allowed only in the designated fire rings at your campsite, and this may further be restricted during dry or high fire danger periods.
• Quiet Hours: Campers are expected to observe quiet hours, typically from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: It's a basic principle of camping in natural areas. You should leave no trace and pack out all trash.

Local Attractions and Essentials

• Prescott: The nearby town of Prescott offers restaurants, grocery stores, shopping, and other city amenities.
• Goldwater Lake: Located nearby for those interested in fishing or canoeing.
• Historical Sites: There are several historical sites in the surrounding area, including the city of Prescott, which has a rich history from its mining and cowboy days.

Contact Information

Before heading to Groom Creek Horse Campground, it's best to get the latest information from the:

• Prescott National Forest: Contact the local ranger district office for updates on conditions and any current alerts or notices that might affect your visit.

Keep in mind that this information is subject to change, and it's always important to verify details before planning your trip.