About Long Valley Group Campground
Overview The Long Valley Work Center Group Campground sits among stately ponderosa pines at an elevation of 6,950 feet offering a cool respite from the summer heat of the valley below. It is also the site of a historic Forest Service work center. The campground is designed to meet the needs of large groups and can accommodate 300 people, offering picnic tables, grills, and a large fire pit. There are vault toilets. For every 25 people after the first 50, the group will need to provide additional port-a-pots. Recreation Many visitors spend time relaxing and exploring the area. The nearby C.C. Cragin Reservoir and Knoll Lake offer opportunities for water based recreation, while the Arizona National Scenic Trail, General Crook National Recreation Trail, and historic Cabin Loop Trail System offer opportunities for hikers, bicyclist, and equestrian users. There are also several Fire Lookout Towers in the area. Facilities The group campground is in a primitive setting on 5 acres. The site has grills, picnic tables, a large fire ring, trash collection and vault toilets. It is important to know that for every 25 people after the first 50, the group will need to provide additional port-a-pots. The site can accomodate up to 300 people and 50 vehicles. Natural Features The campground is in a forested setting adjacent to a meadow. The nearby Mogollon Rim is one of the most striking geologic features in the state. This steep escarpment, measured in thousands of feet, stretches from New Mexico diagonally across two thirds of Arizona and offers sweeping views of the landscape. Nearby Attractions The community of Happy Jack, Arizona has a gas station, two convenience stores and two restaurants.
How to Get There
From Flagstaff, Arizona, drive 55 miles south on FH 3 (Lake Mary Road) to AZ 87 at Clint's Well. Turn right onto AZ 87. Drive approximately one mile and turn left onto Forest Road 141. Travel 1/2 mile on Forest Road 141, turn right onto Forest Road 147A for 0.7 miles. The Group Campground will be on your left. From Payson, Arizona, drive 36 miles north on AZ 87 toward Clint's Well. Turn right onto Forest Road 141. Travel 1/2 mile on Forest Road 141, turn right onto Forest Road 147A for 0.7 miles. The Group Campground will be on your left. GPS Coordinates; 34°31'16.2"N 111°19'47.6"W
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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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 Long Valley Group Campground
Heading to Long Valley Group 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 Long Valley Group Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Long Valley Group Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10040020) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Long Valley Group Campground?
From Flagstaff, Arizona, drive 55 miles south on FH 3 (Lake Mary Road) to AZ 87 at Clint's Well. Turn right onto AZ 87. Drive approximately one mile and turn left onto Forest Road 141. Travel 1/2 mile on Forest Road 141, turn right onto Forest Road 147A for 0.7 miles. The Group Campground will be on your left. From Payson, Arizona, drive 36 miles north on AZ 87 toward Clint's Well. Turn right onto…
How do I contact Long Valley Group Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 928-477-2255 or email: https://www.fs.usda.gov/coconino/.
References & Official Resources
