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Sunny Flat Campground
Campsites are clustered around a grassy meadow in this relatively open streamside camp. All sites are shaded, some more than others, and all are reasonably close to Cave Creek. Birdwatching is good right in camp (as it is in all Cave Creek camps) with elegant trogons and many other interesting species sighted regularly among the sycamores and oaks that border the creek.
The open character of the area makes for exciting views of Cave Creek Canyon’s famous rock formations which tower over the area. Other recreation attractions in Cave Creek Canyon, such as birding areas along South Fork and a number of hiking trails, are just a short drive from this campground, which is along the Cave Creek Canyon/Portal to Paradise Loop scenic drive.
Some attractions you may want to take advantage of while you’re camped at Sunny Flat are the scenic Vista Point Trail located a short distance downstream of the campground, and the Cave Creek Visitor Information Center a little farther downstream. The Center, is open year-round, offers interpretive information, books and pamphlets on the natural and cultural history of the area, and a few examples of local wildlife species.
Note: Black bears in area.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | Open year-round. Campsites or taken on a first-come-first served basis. No reservations are accepted. If forecasts indicate rainfall of 1 1/2" or greater, campground will be evacuated due to flood danger. |
|---|---|
| Area Amenities: | Interpretive Site,Accessible,Tent camping,Camping trailer,Fee charged for some activities,Picnic tables,Toilets,Drinking water,Parking |
| Fees: | Day-use: $8 per vehicle
Weekly: $10 per vehicle
Buy a pass online, or purchase a pass on-site with cash or check. Proof of payment, or a valid Coronado National Forest Annual Pass or Interagency (America the Beautiful) Pass, including the Annual, Senior, Access, or Military Pass, must be displayed on the driver's side of the vehicle dashboard. Learn more about accepted passes. |
| Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
| Restrictions: | No hook-ups. Trailers limited to 28 feet. Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground. Limit 2 vehicles and 10 persons per site. 14 day stay limit. |
| Closest Towns: | Portal is 3 miles southwest |
| Water: | Drinking water is available. |
| Restroom: | Yes |
| Operated By: | Douglas Ranger District |
| Information Center: | Douglas Ranger District 520-364-3468 |
General Information
Directions:150 miles east of Tucson. 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 3 miles to Sunny Flat Campground. All roads are paved and suitable for passenger vehicles.
Accessibility:
Accessible to persons with disabilities.
Activities
Campground Camping
Beautiful canyon, sheer cliffs, streamside setting and great bird/wildlife watching . To avoid putting a bear’s life in danger and risking the loss of some of your own property, please dispose of all garbage in the bear-proof containers provided. Also, remember to use the bear-proof food boxes to keep all food out of reach and out of sight of these curious and powerful animals. Trailers limited to 28 feet. Tables and fire grills.
| No. of Sites | 13 |
Amenities
| Interpretive Site: | Yes |
|---|---|
| Camping trailer: | Yes |
| Picnic tables: | Yes |
| Tent camping: | Yes |
| Fee charged for some activities: | Yes |
| Toilets: | Yes |
| Parking: | Yes |
| Accessible: | Yes |
| Drinking water: | Yes |
Location
