This high mountain campground and group day-use area is located on a site that was once occupied by the old Reef Townsite. That remote outpost got its name from the nearby Carr Reef, a tall band of quartzite-bearing cliffs that form the Huachuca Mountains' dramatic eastern front. Mining activity along the Reef began during the last few years of the nineteenth century and proceeded in fits and starts all the way into the 1950's. The property occupied by the mines and the town was returned to public ownership in 1970, and in 1988, the Forest Service constructed a campground on the townsite. A number of picnic tables and tent pads were placed within the visible outlines of old cabin foundations.

Many relics of Reef's mining history, including the remains of the town's old water system and miscellaneous features, are still visible in and around the campground. Evidence of old mining digs and foundations for an ore mill provide points of interest along a three-quarter-mile interpretive trail which begins and ends at the northeastern end of the campground. In addition to the historic information, the views along that trail are well worth a visit.

Additional Notes

Tent Pads
Trash Service

Tents and trailers under 12' are permitted. Longer trailers and motor homes cannot negotiate the switchbacks on Carr Canyon Road.

Amenity list above may not be complete.

Details

Basic Info

Total Sites:

14 Single Sites
1 Day Use Group Site

More Site Details

RV Hookups:

None

Pet Policy

Pets must be restrained or on a leash.

Activities

Hiking,  Horseback Riding, 
Cool Mountain Setting
Interpretive History Trail
Watchable Wildlife

Additional Details

Motorbikes may be used only for entering or leaving campgrounds.

The day-use group site must be reserved in advance. (It is locked when not in use).

Basic Directions