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Idlewild Campground
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 informedl.
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. However water could be obtained from the Sunny Flat Campground.
- No hook-ups. Trailers limited to 16 feet.
- Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground.
- Stay limit is 14 days.
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