Idlewild
Campground is the first campground you encounter as you
enter Cave Creek Canyon from the east. To get to these
10 streamside sites shaded by Arizona cypress trees, you’ll
have to ford Cave Creek, so be mindful of local weather
conditions.
Cave
Creek Canyon is well known for its spectacular scenery and
excellent birding. In addition, a short distance downstream,
you’ll find the trailhead for the Silver Peak Trail,
which climbs over 3000 feet in just 4.6 miles.
Idlewild Campground is also just a short distance from the
Cave Creek Visitor Information Center, which offers interpretive
information, as well as books, brochures, and pamphlets
to make your visit more informed.
Sites at Idlewild are best suited for camping in tents,
vans, or pickup truck campers. Trailers up to 16 feet are
permitted, however.
Location: 150 miles east of Tucson, 2 miles southwest of
Portal, 54 miles northeast of Douglas.
Access:
From
Tucson, take I-10 east 139 miles to US 80 (you will cross
the New Mexico border to get to this intersection). Turn
right (south) and drive 28 miles, then turn right (west)
on the road to Portal, 7 miles.
From Douglas, take US 80 east approximately 50 miles to
Rodeo, NM. Two miles past Rodeo, turn left (west) on Portal
Road. From Portal drive west on Forest Road 42, approximately
2 miles to Idlewild Campground. All roads are paved and
suitable for passenger vehicles.
Elevation:
5,000'
Season: Closed during winter season, usually November through
April.
Attractions:
Scenic
canyon setting
Forested sites
Nearby stream
Bird/wildlife watching
Nearby Forest trails
Close to Cave Creek Visitor Information Centerils
Facilities:
10
individual sites
Tables and fire grills
Toilet
Notes:
No
drinking water. It's always a good idea to bring drinking
water with you on your camping trip.
No hook-ups. Trailers limited to 16 feet.
Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground.
Stay limit is 14 days.
