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Prescott National Forest: A Diverse Landscape for Outdoor Adventures

Explore Arizona's diverse landscapes: hiking, camping, history & outdoor adventures await in Prescott National Forest's 1.25 million acres.

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Spanning 1.25 million acres in north-central Arizona, Prescott National Forest offers a diverse landscape from desert to pine-covered mountains. Established in 1898, it's a haven for hiking, camping, fishing, and exploring historic sites.

A brief summary to Prescott National Forest

Local tips

  • Check fire restrictions before your visit, especially during dry months. Restrictions may affect campfires and other activities.
  • Purchase a Prescott National Forest Day Pass for $5 to access trails and day-use sites. Day passes are available on site.
  • Bring plenty of water, especially when hiking, as the climate can be dry.
  • Be aware of wildlife and take necessary precautions, such as keeping a safe distance and storing food properly.
  • Quiet hours are between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. in campgrounds. Dogs must be on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Prescott National Forest surrounds the city of Prescott, AZ, making it easily accessible by car. From downtown Prescott, access to various parts of the forest can be gained via highways and forest roads. For example, to reach the White Spar Campground, drive south on Montezuma Street (Highway 89) for 2.7 miles. The campground will be on the left (east side of Hwy 89). To access the Chino Valley Ranger District from Prescott, take Gurley Street west, which turns into Miller Valley Road. Follow Miller Valley Road to Iron Springs Road, then turn right onto Williamson Valley Road. Parking fees may apply at trailheads and recreation areas. A day pass costs $5. Some campgrounds may also have vehicle fees.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation options directly into the forest are limited, the city of Prescott has public transit. From the city, you can connect to various trailheads and access points using taxi services or ride-sharing apps. From the Prescott Public Library to the Prescott National Forest, a taxi or rideshare will cost approximately $10-$20.

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Discover more about Prescott National Forest

Prescott National Forest, established in 1898, encompasses 1.25 million acres of diverse terrain in north-central Arizona. From the Sonoran Desert vegetation at lower elevations to the Ponderosa Pine forests in the mountains, the forest presents varied landscapes and recreational opportunities. The forest is divided into three ranger districts: Chino Valley, Bradshaw, and Verde. Each district offers unique experiences, from the historic mining areas of the Bradshaw Mountains to the scenic Verde River. The forest is home to eight wilderness areas, offering over 100,000 acres for backcountry exploration. Popular wilderness areas include Granite Mountain Wilderness and Sycamore Canyon Wilderness. Recreational activities abound, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, fishing, and water sports. With nearly 950 miles of trails, hikers can explore everything from easy loops to challenging backpacking trips. Popular trails include Balancing Rock Trail and Ponderosa Trail. Several lakes, such as Lynx Lake and Granite Basin Lake, provide opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The forest's history is rich, with evidence of human occupation dating back 12,000 years. Mining, livestock grazing, and timber harvesting have shaped the forest's landscape. Visitors can explore archaeological sites, old mining towns like Jerome and Crown King, and historic sites like Palace Station and Groom Creek Schoolhouse. Prescott National Forest offers a year-round destination with a mild climate that makes it ideal for outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful camping trip, or a glimpse into Arizona's history, Prescott National Forest has something for everyone.

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