Prescott National Forest

Recreational Activities

Summer visitors seeking relief from the hot weather of the desert come to Prescott to camp, fish, picnic, hike and ride. The main recreation season generally runs from May to October; however, winter daytime temperatures are moderate and the Prescott National Forest can be enjoyed all year.

The forest contains 10 campgrounds, 4 group reservation campgrounds, 7 picnic areas, and 2 group reservation picnic areas. Most of the developed recreation sites are located in the pines with 5 of the campgrounds and two of the picnic areas situated near manmade lakes. Several developed sites offer barrier-free access for users experiencing disabilities.

Nearly 450 miles of scenic trails for hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, or mountain biking are offered on the Prescott National Forest. The forest also contains one National Recreational Trail (Granite Mountain Trail) and one National Historic Study trail (General Crook Trail). The mild climate allows the trails to be enjoyed year-round.

For the more daring visitors, the forest offers opportunities for hang gliding, technical rock climbing and bouldering, whitewater rafting, and excellent mountain bicycling.

The Prescott National Forest is guardian of more than 100,000 acres of wilderness represented by 8 wilderness areas. Of these, Granite Mountain Wilderness is the most popular because it is only 20 minutes from Prescott by paved road. Travel is limited to foot or horseback in wilderness areas.

Currently, the forest is being challenged to increase its emphasis on wildfire and recreation management programs.

Verde River Guide

In 1984 the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act established the portion of the Verde River from Beasley Flat downstream to the confluence with Red Creek, as Arizona's only Wild and Scenic River. While it may appear calm at many of the river access points, the large number of wrecked canoes that have been removed from the Verde River testify to the fact that is has its share of hazards. Please plan ahead, be prepared, and practice Leave No Trace ethics to leave the Verde just as you find it for those who come after.

• View the Verde River Guide (7,928 KB PDF)

2008 Forestwide Recreation Fee Proposal

The Prescott National Forest would like your feedback on fee proposals at campgrounds and day use sites across the forest... MORE

Recreation Facility Analysis

Recreation Facility Analysis is an analysis process, used nationally, to assist Forests in creating a sustainable program that aligns recreation sites with visitors' desires, expectations, and use. Recreation Facility Analysis helps ensure that... MORE

Partnership for the National Trails System

The National Trails System

40 Years of Connecting People to America's Diverse History, Cultures, Landscapes, and to One Another. Celebration Flyer (247 KB PDF)