Reef Townsite Group Area
This high-mountain group campground and day use area is located on a site that was once occupied by the old mining town of Reef. Many relics of Reef's mining history, including the remains of the town's old water system, are still visible in and around the campground. Groups of up to 50 people can enjoy walking an interpretive history trail, hiking, horseback riding and watching wildlife in this cool mountain setting.
Reef Townsite can accommodate one group of up to 50 people at a time. Facilities include a picnic shelter that contains six picnic tables, two large group barbecue grills and two food preparation tables, as well as toilets, a parking area and a large shaded area for tents.
Need to Know
- Group site is locked when not in use
- No drinking water available at this site; visitors must bring their own drinking water; nearest drinking water is in Sierra Vista
- Tents and trailers under 12 ft. are permitted; longer trailers and motor homes cannot negotiate the switchbacks on Carr Canyon Road
- No utility hookups
- Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground or picnic area
- Only collect dead firewood
- This is a high elevation facility; use caution when traveling from lower elevations
- Bears and other animals live in the area; all food must be secured and trash disposed in the trash cans provided on-site
- Click here to learn more about Coronado National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
This site rests on the "Reef" rock formations in the in the Huachuca Mountains. At an elevation of 7,200 feet, it provides a cool respite from the heat of surrounding lower deserts in summer.
The Coronado National Forest covers 1.78 million acres of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico. Elevations range from 3,000 to 10,720 feet in 12 widely scattered mountain ranges, or "sky islands," that rise dramatically from the desert floor, supporting biologically diverse plant communities.
Recreation
Reef Townsite Loop Trail, an interpretive trail that highlights the mining history of this area and showcases beautiful views, begins and ends at the northeastern edge of the campground.
The national forest has a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails for those who wish to leave the facility for a day trip.
Contact Information
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4070 S Avenida Saracino Hereford AZ 85615
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Tucson, Arizona, drive east on I-10 to exit 302 to State Route 90. Drive south 25 miles through Sierra Vista. Proceed 8 miles south of Sierra Vista on State Route 92 and turn west onto Carr Canyon Road/Forest Road 368.
Forest Road 368 is a narrow gravel road with steep mountain grades, tight switchbacks and recomended for vehicles with good clearance. Contact Sierra Vista Ranger District Office if you have questions or want to know current conditions.
