Idlewilde Campground

Idlewilde Campground is the first campground you encounter as you enter Cave Creek Canyon from the east.

Cave Creek Canyon is well known for its spectacular scenery and excellent birding. In addition, a short distance from the entrance, you’ll find the trailhead for the Cave Creek Nature Trail, which spans the lower Cave Creek Canyon from Sunny Flat Campground to the Silver Peak Trailhead.

Sites at Idlewilde are best suited for camping in tents, vans, or pickup truck campers. No trailers are permitted.

Note: Black bears are common in the area.

Fees

Single site: $20. With Golden Age/Access or Interagency Senior/Access pass $10. Payable with cash or check.

Rules

Tents, vans, or pickup truck campers only. No trailers are permitted. Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in the campground. Limit 2 vehicles and 10 persons per site. 14-day stay limit. No hook-ups

Directions

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.