Granite Basin Recreation Area: Prescott's Natural Escape
Explore Prescott's Granite Basin: Hike scenic trails, camp under the pines, and discover outdoor adventures in Arizona's stunning Prescott National Forest.
Nestled in the Prescott National Forest, Granite Basin Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape of granite boulders and ponderosa pines. Popular for hiking, camping, and non-motorized water activities, it's a refreshing escape from the Arizona heat, located just a short drive from downtown Prescott.
A brief summary to Granite Basin Recreation Area
- Granite Basin Rd, Prescott, Arizona, 86303, US
- +1928-443-8000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Prescott National Forest website or call the Bradshaw Ranger Station for current conditions and any seasonal closures before you go.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as the Arizona sun can be intense.
- A day-use fee of $5 per vehicle is required, but Wednesdays are free. Interagency passes are also accepted.
- Be aware of wildlife, including snakes, and stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing the natural environment.
- Consider visiting during the spring or fall for milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Prescott, head northwest on Iron Springs Road for approximately 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Granite Basin Road (FSR 374) and continue for 2 miles. Yavapai Campground will be on your left. Day-use parking throughout Granite Basin Recreation Area costs $5 per vehicle, but is free on Wednesdays. America the Beautiful and Interagency passes are also accepted.
Discover more about Granite Basin Recreation Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Petroglyph Point
7.4 km
Explore ancient rock art and Prescott's cultural heritage at Petroglyph Point, a historical landmark with stunning views and intricate carvings.
Experience Prescott Arizona
8.9 km
Explore Prescott, Arizona: A charming blend of history, art, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the American West.
Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. - World's Oldest Rodeo
9.2 km
Experience the thrill of the 'World's Oldest Rodeo' in Prescott, AZ, a historic celebration of Western sports and culture since 1888.
Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe
9.9 km
Explore the Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe's rich history, culture, and economic contributions in the heart of Prescott, Arizona.
Founding Fathers Collective
10.5 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant community hub: a unique blend of bar, coffee shop, food court, and barbershop in the heart of downtown.
Camp Grounds Tea and Coffee
10.6 km
Experience Prescott's charm with organic coffee & tea served from a vintage camper. A community hub where every cup creates connection.
Peregrine Book Company
10.7 km
Prescott's largest independent bookstore, offering new & used books, author events, local gifts, and a haven for curious minds.
Prescott Center for the Arts
10.8 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant arts scene at this historic theater, offering diverse performances and art exhibitions for all ages.
Whiskey Row Alley
10.8 km
Experience the charm of the Old West in Prescott's Whiskey Row Alley, a historic destination with saloons, shops, and entertainment.
Hotel St. Michael
10.8 km
Experience Prescott's history at Hotel St. Michael, a landmark hotel on Whiskey Row offering Victorian charm and modern comforts.
Bashford Courts
10.8 km
Explore unique boutiques and art in a historic atrium mall, located in downtown Prescott's iconic Bashford-Burmister building.
Manifested Art
10.8 km
Explore Manifested Art in Prescott, AZ, where unique rocks, rare fossils, and captivating minerals await every geology enthusiast and casual visitor.
The Burmister Building
10.8 km
Discover local crafts and unique finds at The Burmister Building, a historic shopping mall in the heart of downtown Prescott, Arizona.
Whiskey Row Penthouse
10.8 km
Experience Prescott's history and luxury at Whiskey Row Penthouse, steps from saloons, shops, and downtown events.
Superstition Meadery
10.8 km
Experience award-winning meads and ciders in a historic downtown setting. Superstition Meadery: A taste of Arizona's craft beverage culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Granite Mountain Trail #261
0.9 km
Discover the stunning Granite Mountain Trail #261, a premier hiking destination in Prescott, Arizona, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Granite Mountain
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning views of Granite Mountain in Prescott, Arizona, a must-visit hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Alto Pit OHV
2.8 km
Explore the thrilling trails and breathtaking landscapes of Alto Pit OHV, a premier destination for off-road adventures in Prescott, Arizona.
Granite Mountain Wilderness
3.3 km
Discover Granite Mountain Wilderness in Prescott, AZ – a stunning nature preserve perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and embracing the great outdoors.
Prescott Circle Trail
3.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Prescott Circle Trail, a scenic hiking area in Arizona offering diverse landscapes and unforgettable views.
Iron Springs Trailhead
3.6 km
Discover the breathtaking trails and natural beauty of Iron Springs Trailhead in Prescott, Arizona, a perfect hiking destination for nature lovers.
Little Granite Mountain TR37 Trailhead
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and scenic vistas of Little Granite Mountain TR37 Trailhead, a paradise for hiking enthusiasts in Prescott, Arizona.
Prescott National Forest
4.9 km
Discover Prescott National Forest: A stunning Arizona destination with diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.
Williamson Valley Trailhead
5.6 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and diverse hiking trails at Williamson Valley Trailhead in Prescott, Arizona, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Community Nature Center
6.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and tranquility of the Community Nature Center in Prescott, Arizona, a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.
Thumb Butte Recreation Area
7.4 km
Explore Thumb Butte Recreation Area: A Hidden Gem in Prescott, AZ for Hiking, Scenic Views, and Outdoor Adventure.
Pioneer Park
7.8 km
Discover the charm of Pioneer Park in Prescott, AZ, where nature, adventure, and family fun come together in a stunning outdoor setting.
Thumb Butte
8.0 km
Experience the breathtaking vistas and tranquil hiking trails at Thumb Butte in Prescott, Arizona, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Falcon’s Nest
8.3 km
Explore the breathtaking views and unique architecture of Falcon's Nest, a must-see tourist attraction in Prescott, Arizona.
Flinn Park
9.2 km
Experience the natural beauty of Prescott at Flinn Park, a serene escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
Essential places to dine
Dry Gulch Steakhouse
7.1 km
Experience authentic American steakhouse cuisine at Dry Gulch Steakhouse in Prescott – where flavor meets rustic charm.
LaBruzza's Italian Ristorante
7.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at LaBruzza's in Prescott—where every dish tells a story.
Waffles-N-More
7.8 km
Discover delicious breakfast at Waffles-N-More in Prescott—where every bite is a taste of happiness!
Unsui Japanese Restaurant
7.8 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Unsui Restaurant in Prescott; enjoy fresh sushi and traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Torme
9.0 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Torme in Prescott - where culinary creativity meets warm hospitality.
BiGA.
9.3 km
Discover BiGA in Prescott: A unique American restaurant serving fresh, local ingredients in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Casa Sanchez Restaurant
9.4 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Sanchez Restaurant in Prescott - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.
Salt & Pepper Cafe
9.8 km
Experience hearty American comfort food at Salt & Pepper Cafe in Prescott, AZ – where every bite feels like home.
The Local Prescott
10.2 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and brunches at The Local Prescott – where delicious meets diverse dietary needs in a cozy café setting.
That Apple Pan
10.4 km
Discover authentic American flavors at That Apple Pan in Prescott, Arizona - where every meal feels like home.
Triple Creek Kitchen and Spirits
10.5 km
Experience exceptional dining at Triple Creek Kitchen and Spirits in Prescott, Arizona – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Uncle Bud's Place
10.6 km
Experience authentic Cajun cuisine at Uncle Bud's Place in Prescott, Arizona - where every bite tells a flavorful story.
Rosa's Pizzeria (Prescott)
10.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Rosa's Pizzeria in Prescott—where every pizza is crafted with love and quality ingredients.
Farm Provisions
10.6 km
Discover the farm-to-table delights at Farm Provisions in Prescott – where fresh meets flavorful in every bite!
Two Mamas' Gourmet Pizzeria
10.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Italy at Two Mamas' Gourmet Pizzeria in Prescott - where every slice tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Iron Springs - Goodwill - Retail Store and Donation Center
7.7 km
Explore the eclectic treasures of Iron Springs - Goodwill, a thrift store in Prescott, AZ, where every purchase supports community initiatives.
Big 5 Sporting Goods
7.8 km
Explore the great outdoors with top-quality gear and apparel at Big 5 Sporting Goods in Prescott, a haven for adventure enthusiasts.
Village at the Boulders
7.8 km
Explore the Village at the Boulders, Prescott's vibrant shopping mall featuring unique stores, dining options, and stunning landscapes.
SugarPine Home Furnishings and Lifestyle Boutique
8.1 km
Explore SugarPine Home Furnishings and Lifestyle Boutique in Prescott, AZ for unique home goods that blend style and comfort with local charm.
The Lookout & Hallmark - Formerly Jay's Bird Barn
8.1 km
Explore unique gifts and bird watching experiences at The Lookout & Hallmark in Prescott, Arizona – a must-visit for nature lovers and gift shoppers.
C-A-L Ranch Stores
8.3 km
Discover the ultimate outdoor shopping experience at C-A-L Ranch Stores in Prescott, Arizona, your go-to destination for camping gear, pet supplies, and western apparel.
Willow Lake - Goodwill - Retail Store and Donation Center
8.6 km
Uncover hidden treasures and support your community at Willow Lake Thrift Store in Prescott, Arizona, a unique shopping experience for all.
Imperfectly Unbroken
9.4 km
Explore Imperfectly Unbroken in Prescott, AZ - a vintage wonderland of antiques, collectibles, and unique art pieces waiting to be discovered.
Sprouts Farmers Market
10.6 km
Explore Sprouts Farmers Market in Prescott, AZ for fresh, organic produce and a variety of health food options that cater to every dietary need.
Fallon’s Down Home Vintage Prescott
10.6 km
Explore a treasure trove of vintage goods and local crafts at Fallon’s Down Home Vintage Prescott – a boutique full of character and charm.
The Vintage Shop - Uncle Al's Thriftique
10.7 km
Explore the charm of vintage shopping at Uncle Al's Thriftique, where every find tells a story in Prescott, Arizona.
Toyful
10.7 km
Explore Toyful in Prescott, AZ - a delightful gift and toy shop offering unique finds for all ages, where joy and nostalgia meet.
Fancy That
10.7 km
Explore the eclectic charm of Prescott, Arizona at Fancy That, your go-to boutique for unique clothing and handcrafted furniture.
Carrie Weldon Gallery & Boutique
10.8 km
Discover unique art and handcrafted gifts at Carrie Weldon Gallery & Boutique in Prescott, Arizona, a haven for creative spirits and thoughtful shoppers.
Mid-Century Madness
10.8 km
Explore a unique selection of mid-century antiques and collectibles in Prescott, Arizona's charming Mid-Century Madness antique store.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mark’s Beer Garden
7.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mark’s Beer Garden in Prescott, offering a fantastic selection of craft beers and delicious food in a stunning outdoor setting.
The Windsock Lounge
7.8 km
Experience the vibrant energy of The Windsock Lounge in Prescott, where delicious food meets exciting sports and cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
The Final Score
8.5 km
Experience the ultimate sports atmosphere at The Final Score, Prescott's favorite bar and grill, where delicious food meets thrilling games.
Prescott Night Out
10.0 km
Discover Prescott Night Out, a lively venue combining live music, delicious dining, and a dance club experience in the heart of Arizona.
Pudge and Asti's Sports Grill
10.1 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant atmosphere at Pudge and Asti's Sports Grill, where local flavors meet a lively sports bar ambiance.
Sam's Bar
10.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Sam's Bar, a beloved Prescott destination for locals and tourists alike.
JJ's Smiles On Tap
10.7 km
Experience the essence of Prescott at JJ's Smiles On Tap, where locals gather for craft drinks and unforgettable memories in a welcoming atmosphere.
Prescott Public House
10.7 km
Discover Prescott Public House, a vibrant bar in Arizona offering delightful local brews and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Point Bar and Lounge
10.7 km
Discover The Point Bar and Lounge, Prescott's must-visit cocktail bar with live music and a vibrant atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
Lyzzard's Lounge
10.8 km
Experience Prescott's vibrant nightlife at Lyzzard's Lounge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere await you.
Matt's Saloon
10.8 km
Discover Prescott's lively hub at Matt's Saloon, where handcrafted cocktails and a friendly atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Jersey Lilly Saloon
10.8 km
Discover the lively Jersey Lilly Saloon in Prescott, AZ – a perfect blend of great drinks, live music, and a vibrant nightlife experience.
1881 Spirits
10.9 km
Discover the charm of Prescott at 1881 Spirits, where craft cocktails and local brews meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Back Alley Wine Bar
10.9 km
Experience the cozy charm of Back Alley Wine Bar in Prescott, Arizona, where exceptional wines and an inviting atmosphere await your discovery.
Bird Cage Saloon
10.9 km
Experience the lively ambiance of the Bird Cage Saloon in Prescott, Arizona, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable nights.
