With Only 10 Campsites, The Blue Ridge Campground In Arizona Offers A Remote Forest Escape
There is nothing worse than looking forward to a relaxing camping trip only to be surrounded by rowdiness and a general disregard for the inherent peace of Mother Nature. Luckily, there is a campground in Arizona where you’re pretty much guaranteed not to be bothered. Blue Ridge Campground, tucked away in Rim Country near the Blue Ridge Reservoir, is one of the most remote campgrounds in Arizona, with only 10 total sites. It offers seclusion, tranquility, and the opportunity to recharge – everything you could hope for in a camping trip!
Arizona's Blue Ridge Reservoir is a far cry from the barren desert terrain that covers much of the state.
Nestled up in Rim Country near Payson, this manmade lake features a strikingly beautiful forest landscape that extends all the way down to the waterline.
Rugged canyon walls line the sides of the lake, imparting an otherworldly feel that will take you miles away from any earthly concerns. On the water, you can kayak, canoe, and fish.
Swimming isn't explicitly forbidden, but the steep rocky outcroppings make for very little direct access to the lake, so you may have a hard time getting in without the boat ramp.
Other activities include hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The reservoir is located along the Arizona Trail, so the hiking opportunities are truly unparalleled.
While it is entirely possible to make a day trip out of the Blue Ridge Reservoir, we highly recommend staying at least one night at the Blue Ridge Campground.
Located about five miles north of the reservoir, this peaceful forest escape is easily among the most remote campgrounds in Arizona. It offers only 10 total campsites, so peace and quiet is a guarantee.
As far as amenities go, guests enjoy picnic tables, fire rings, grills for cooking, and clean restroom facilities. No reservations are required; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
No reservations are required; the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visit the USDA Forest Service website for more information about the campground, including current nightly rates.
Have you ever stayed at the Blue Ridge Campground? Are there any other remote campgrounds in Arizona worth visiting? Tell us your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out our previous article for the best things to do in Payson while you’re in the area.
Address: Blue Ridge Campground, AZ-87, Happy Jack, AZ 86024, USA
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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.