Overview Looking for a perfect getaway to immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than the Mingus Mountain Campground! Situated conveniently between the charming towns of Prescott and Cottonwood in Arizona, this campground offers a central location for your outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking tranquility or …
Overview Looking for a perfect getaway to immerse yourself in nature? Look no further than the Mingus Mountain Campground! Situated conveniently between the charming towns of Prescott and Cottonwood in Arizona, this campground offers a central location for your outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking tranquility or thrilling activities, Mingus Mountain Campground is the ideal destination to unwind and reconnect with nature. Enjoy the best of both worlds all season long by beating the summer heat and then being captivated by the magnificent color spectacle that unfolds in the late fall! Recreation The forest all around provides numerous hiking trails suited for all levels of intensity, ranging from leisurely strolls to exhilarating uphill treks. For campers seeking a respite from hiking, they can unwind amidst the campground, soak in the scenic vistas, and delight in the serenade of the wind rustling through the pine trees. Mingus Lake is located a short .9 miles away where one can enjoy some peace near the water as well as catch trout (limit 4) and bullhead trout (unlimited) with a valid AZ fishing license. Facilities Mingus Mountain Campground has 27 campsites available and the campground is open from May 1st to October 31st. 4 vault toilets, garbage service, and potable water (not for filling RV tanks) are available to all campers. Cell Phone Coverage: The campground is conveniently located near cellular towers and as such the reception in the campground is usually decent. Verizon seems to work the best. A Forest Service host is on site. THERE IS NO ICE OR FIREWOOD FOR SALE IN THE CAMPGROUNDS: PLEASE PLAN ACCORDINGLY. The nearby towns of Prescott Valley (18 miles) and Cottonwood (19 miles) have grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, shopping, and other conveniences. Natural Features This mountain top campground offers a cool respite from hot Arizona summers -- a classic forest setting for a memorable camping adventure. Connect with your inner naturalist and
Photos
Camping Corridor Overview — M. Suggs, Prescott National ForestMingus Group Site Diagram — M. Suggs, Prescott National ForestMingus Campground Loop A Diagram — M. Suggs, Prescott National ForestMingus Campground Loop B Diagram — M. Suggs, Prescott National ForestA photo of facility Mingus Mountain Campground showing the Restroom at the entrance as well as the one way sign — Makayla MunfordMingus Lake recreational area has a picnic table under a shade structure as well as a payment kiosk, dumpster and restroom. — Makayla MunfordA photo of Mingus Mountain marker sign showing the boundary to the Prescott National Forest sign — Makayla MunfordA photo of Mingus Lake with murky water looking peaceful against a blue sky and the trees. — Makayla MunfordA photo of facility Mingus Mountain Campground second restroom and kiosk with signs such as "Bear Country" and "14 day stay limit" — Makayla MunfordA photo of facility Mingus Mountain Campground view of several tall trees providing shade — Makayla MunfordA photo of Mingus Lake including a walking path, people on the shoreline and a Prescott National Forest sign featuring Smokey Bear. — Makayla Munford
How to Get There
From Prescott, Arizona, take U.S. Highway 89 north to U.S. Highway 89A. Turn right onto Highway 89A and go about 19 miles to the junction with Forest Road 104 at the summit. Forest Road 104 is on your right as you approach the summit. Turn right onto Forest Road 104, which is dirt but suitable for all types of vehicles when dry, and travel about 4 miles. At this point, the road makes a “T” with a parking lot directly in front of you. You can park here and explore or take the right fork and proceed to the campground, which has toilets and campsites, but no water. From the Camp Verde, Arizona (junction of Interstate 17 and Arizona Highway 260), take Highway 260 north for about 20 miles to the junction with U.S. Highway 89A. This route will take you through the communities of Bridgeport, Cottonwood, and Clarkdale. At Clarkdale, turn left staying on Highway 89A, and travel for about 14 miles through the historic mining town of Jerome to the junction with Forest Road 104 just before the highway descends towards Prescott Valley. Turn left onto Forest Road 104 and go about 4 miles to the campground/day-use area.
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 Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site
Heading to Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site? 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 Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site?
No central reservation system listed for Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10215909) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How many campsites are at Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site?
Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site has 32 campsites. Site amenities (hookups, vehicle limits, ADA access) vary — see the individual campsite pages for details.
How do I get to Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site?
From Prescott, Arizona, take U.S. Highway 89 north to U.S. Highway 89A. Turn right onto Highway 89A and go about 19 miles to the junction with Forest Road 104 at the summit. Forest Road 104 is on your right as you approach the summit. Turn right onto Forest Road 104, which is dirt but suitable for all types of vehicles when dry, and travel about 4 miles. At this point, the road makes a “T” with a …
How do I contact Mingus Mountain Campground and Group Site?
