About Riverview Campground
Riverview Campground offers a fantastic camping experience in the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area and is a short drive from Safford, Arizona. It is situated on a northern bench overlooking the Gila River and is surrounded by various day use sites along the river. There are 13 first come, first served campsites at Riverview Campground. Each site has picnic tables, fire rings, grills, and shade structures. The campsites were recently enlarged to improve access for trailers and RVs. Ten campsites are pull-in sites, and three are pull-through sites. There is potable drinking water and a toilet available at the campground. Flying W Group Day Use Area, a reservable group picnic area, is located next to the Riverview Campground. The area contains significant riparian areas with a many birds and other wildlife as well as unique vegetation. Many visitors use this site as a base camp during hunting season or while floating the Gila River. Visit recreation sites within or nearby the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area:Owl Creek CampgroundDry Canyon Picnic AreaSpring Canyon Picnic AreaLee Trail Picnic AreaSerna Cabin Picnic Area & Historical SiteBonita Creek Watchable Wildlife Viewing AreaSafford-Morenci TrailFlying W Group Day Use AreaCanyon Overlook Picnic AreaGila River Boat Put-InOld Safford Bridge Picnic Area
How to Get There
From Safford, travel five miles east on AZ 70 to Soloman, then turn left onto Sanchez Road. Follow Sanchez Road to the end of the pavement and follow the signs to the campground. The last mile to the campground is a gravel road. It is rocky in sections and the hill leading down into the campground is the roughest spot but doesn't require a four-wheel-drive vehicle or even high clearance. The turn off from Sanchez Road is Bonita Creek Road. Bonita Creek Road is narrow, winding, and has sections of steep grade. Some visitors are surprised by the number of curves and blind corners along Bonita Creek Road. Within the Gila Box Riparian National Conservation Area, visitors can usually get to major access points by passenger car, but other roads may be rough at times because of infrequent maintenance. You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle on many roads. Check with the Safford Field Office for up-to-date road conditions.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Riverview Campground
Heading to Riverview Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Riverview Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Riverview Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/202060) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Riverview Campground?
From Safford, travel five miles east on AZ 70 to Soloman, then turn left onto Sanchez Road. Follow Sanchez Road to the end of the pavement and follow the signs to the campground. The last mile to the campground is a gravel road. It is rocky in sections and the hill leading down into the campground is the roughest spot but doesn't require a four-wheel-drive vehicle or even high clearance. The turn …
How do I contact Riverview Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: (928)348-4400 or email: blm_az_sfoweb@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources