Photo: gizilich / CC BY-SA 3.0

Campgrounds 6,164 ft Bortle 4 Solitude: 70/100 (secluded)

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground provides a quiet forest setting for groups of up to 100 people to camp and enjoy the outdoors. The historic town of Prescott, Arizona is just 8 miles away. This facility is set away from other developed recreation sites and offers town amenities, trails and lake recreation within minutes. To make reservations click on the availability button to the right to book this site or call 1 (877) 444-6777. For general campground questions contact the Bradshaw Ranger District at 1 (928) 443-8000. Recreation Within the facility, campers can relax with a game of volleyball( net not provided ) or horseshoes. Numerous hiking and mountain biking trails are found in the Bradshaw Mountains around the campground, and 15-acre Goldwater Lake is just a few miles away. Boaters, canoers and kayakers can make use of the lake's dock and boat ramp. Anglers try for trout, sunfish, crappie, largemouth bass and channel catfish in the calm waters. A drive down unpaved Forest Road 97 reveals mountain views and passes through a burn scar from a 2002 wildfire. Facilities The group site has 13 picnic tables, five grills and one campfire ring. Trees are thinly spaced in some areas, allowing ample space for group activities, RV parking (up to 40 ft.) and camping. Drinking water and hookups are not provided. Natural Features The group area is set at an elevation of 6,000 feet in a ponderosa pine forest mixed with juniper, Gambel oak, native grasses. Boulders are strewn throughout the area. A multitude of colorful wildflowers bloom in the spring and during the summer monsoon season. Goldwater Lake is nearby. The forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors may have the chance to spot deer, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, fox, rabbits, lizards, snakes and birds. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible from late June through mid-September. Nearby Attractions This site is a convenient camping spot for groups who reserve the Groom Creek Schoolhouse day use picnic area nearby.

Near Yarnell, AZ in Arizona

What to Pack for Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

Preparation starts with your pack. Here's what to bring.

Preparation for Upper Wolf Creek Group starts with your pack. These items address the real risks and conditions here.

Essential

Water (minimum 2L) — Even cool-weather hiking demands steady hydration, as exertion and altitude increase water loss faster than most expect.
Navigation (map/GPS/compass) — Even well-marked trails have confusing junctions, especially in fog or snow; a GPS unit or downloaded map keeps you on route.
Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) — Quality sunglasses prevent snow blindness and reduce eye strain during long days on exposed trails or ridgelines.
First aid kit — Adhesive bandages, antiseptic, and athletic tape handle the most common trail injuries and weigh under a pound.
Extra food — Blood sugar drops fast during sustained effort outdoors, and having a reserve keeps your body and mind sharp.
Headlamp with extra batteries — Batteries drain faster in cold weather; carrying spares ensures you won't be left in the dark when you need light most.
Fire starter — Starting a fire boosts morale and provides light, warmth, and a way to purify water in an emergency.
Emergency shelter (space blanket) — If an injury forces you to stop moving, a reflective blanket prevents the rapid heat loss that leads to hypothermia.
Knife or multi-tool — In a survival situation, a blade lets you process tinder, build shelter, and prepare food.
Extra clothing layer — Wet clothing accelerates cooling; a dry backup layer can prevent hypothermia when conditions turn.

Wildlife Gear

Hiking buddy (avoid solo) — Solo hikers are more vulnerable to predatory behavior from mountain lions, which typically avoid groups.
Noise maker — A loud whistle doubles as a rescue signal, serving both wildlife safety and emergency communication.
Gaiters — Beyond snakes, gaiters also protect against thorns, brush, and ticks in overgrown trail sections.
First-aid snakebite kit — A lightweight pressure bandage and marker for tracking swelling take up minimal space but provide critical aid.

Terrain Gear

Wide-brim hat — Desert and alpine environments with little tree cover leave you fully exposed; a hat is your primary shade source.
Sunscreen SPF50+ — Apply 30 minutes before exposure and reapply every 2 hours; sweating and pack straps rub sunscreen off faster than expected.
Extra water (desert) — Even well-mapped springs can go dry after low-snowpack years; always carry surplus and check recent trip reports.
SPF50 lip balm — Reapply every 2 hours and after eating or drinking, as lip balm wears off faster than body sunscreen.

Seasonal Gear

Spring: Camera, Wildflower field guide
Fall: Camera, Binoculars (foliage viewing)
Winter: Microspikes/traction devices

Activities & Best Time to Visit Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

The Desert terrain here lends itself to a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

With 13 activities available, Upper Wolf Creek Group works for both quick day trips and longer stays.

The scenery here earns a 55/100 photography rating — Good dark sky (Bortle 4) and 3 excellent meteor showers.

Activities

birdwatching — Quiet observation often leads to rewarding encounters.
boating — Always wear life jackets and follow local water safety rules.
bouldering — Crash pads and spotters help reduce risk.
camping — From developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, it's a classic way to immerse yourself in nature.
canoeing — Calm waters are ideal for beginners and families.
fishing — Check local regulations and seasons before heading out.
horseback_riding — Guided rides are available in many parks and recreation areas.
kayaking — Wear a personal flotation device and check water conditions before launching.
picnicking — Whether lakeside or in a meadow, it's a relaxed way to savor both the setting and the company.
rv_camping — Hookups and designated sites make extended stays convenient.
stargazing — Clear, moonless nights provide the best conditions for celestial viewing.
walking — Perfect for all ages, a casual walk can turn any outdoor space into a relaxing nature experience.
wildlife_viewing — Bring binoculars and patience — nature often rewards careful, respectful observers.

Best months: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr

Terrain: Desert — Rocky outcrops, sand, and dry washes are common features.

Wildlife Safety at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

Knowing what to watch for helps you enjoy the outdoors here safely.

Safety at Upper Wolf Creek Group involves knowing about 1 potential wildlife hazards in the area.

Danger rating: 25/100 (based on terrain difficulty, wildlife presence, weather exposure, and remoteness) moderate

Mountain lions
Venomous snakes
Far from city (73mi)

Altitude risk: mild

UV risk: extreme (Southern latitude (34N), Elevated (6,164ft), Desert (exposed))

Photo score: 55/100

Good dark sky (Bortle 4)
3 excellent meteor showers
Fall foliage
Spring wildflowers

Venomous Snakes

3 venomous snake species are found in this area: Western Diamondback, Mojave, Sidewinder.

Western Diamondback

Broad triangular head, vertical pupils, and a stout body often exceeding 3 to 4 feet in length.

Seek emergency medical care immediately and keep the bitten limb immobilized at heart level.

Mojave

Distinct facial stripe behind the eye and a prominent rattle.

Call emergency services immediately and limit movement to slow venom spread.

Sidewinder

Usually under 2 feet long with a relatively short rattle.

Seek immediate medical attention and immobilize the affected limb.

Watch where you step and place hands
Stay on trails
Wear boots and long pants in snake country
Do not reach under rocks or logs
If bitten: stay calm, immobilize limb, seek medical help immediately
Do NOT: cut wound, suck venom, apply tourniquet, ice, or alcohol

Nature & Wildlife at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

The Desert terrain here supports a rich ecosystem worth noticing as you explore.

This Desert habitat supports 4 mammal species, 30 bird species, and 5 reptile species.

Trees (1)

Frémont Cottonwood — The bark is light gray and furrowed on mature trunks.

Wildflowers (2)

California poppy — Four-petaled blooms that close at night or in cool weather.
Coulter's lupine — Purple to blue pea-like flowers form tall spikes.

Shrubs (4)

Brittlebush — A rounded desert shrub with silvery fuzzy leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
Creosote Bush — An evergreen desert shrub with small resinous leaves divided into paired leaflets.
redberry juniper — An evergreen shrub or small tree with scale-like leaves and reddish berry-like cones.

Other Plants (5)

saguaro
Buckhorn Cholla
California Barrel Cactus
Teddybear Cholla
stinknet

Mammals (4)

Desert Cottontail — Long hind legs for rapid escape.
Mule Deer — Bucks carry branching antlers that fork rather than form a single main beam.
Collared Peccary — Small straight tusks visible in adults.
Coyote — Lean, agile build.

Birds (30)

House Sparrow — Urban plumage often dusted and worn
Great-tailed Grackle — Iridescent sheen
Hooded Merganser — Compact diving duck profile
Brewer's Sparrow — Thin bill
Black-throated Sparrow — White belly

Reptiles (5)

Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake — Adults commonly 3–5 feet long.
Common Side-blotched Lizard — Typically 4–6 inches long including the tail.
Desert Spiny Lizard — Usually 5–7 inches long.
Gopher Snake — Adults commonly reach 3–6 feet in length.
Western Whiptail — Typically 8–12 inches long including the tail.

Amphibians (1)

Red-spotted Toad

Insects (6)

Empress Leilia
Western Honey Bee
Queen
American Snout
Sleepy Orange

Other Wildlife (1)

Desert Blonde Tarantula

Nature Bingo at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

Can you spot them all? Check off each species as you find it on your visit.

Wildlife Challenge

Cactus Wren (bird)
Desert Cottontail (mammal)
Western Diamond-backed Rattlesnake (reptile)
Red-spotted Toad (amphibian)
saguaro (plant)

Botany Challenge

Achnatherum Pinetorum
Aquilegia Coerulea Var. Pinetorum
Arabis Holboellii Var. Pinetorum
Asclepias Engelmanniana
Echinocereus Engelmannii
Almutaster

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai Climate & Sun

Here's the weather and sun data to help you pick the best time to visit.

Best months to visit based on climate: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr. Avoid unless prepared for .

Climate type: Temperate

Annual avg temp: 52.3°F

Annual precipitation: 23.1 in

With an average annual temperature of 52.3°F and 23.1 inches of precipitation, Upper Wolf Creek Group has mild, moderate rainfall conditions. Summer highs average around 71°F, while winter lows drop to 37°F.

Best months to visit: May, Jun, Sep, Oct.

Winter 37°

2.4"

Spring 48°

0.9"

Summer 71°

3.8"

Fall 54°

1.3"

Month	Avg Temp	Precip
Jan	37°F	2.4 in
Feb	38°F	2.9 in
Mar	43°F	2.2 in
Apr	48°F	0.9 in
May	56°F	0.5 in
Jun	66°F	0.3 in
Jul	71°F	3.8 in
Aug	69°F	3.6 in
Sep	64°F	2.2 in
Oct	54°F	1.3 in
Nov	44°F	1.1 in
Dec	36°F	1.9 in

Daylight & Sun Times

Daylight ranges from 9.9 hours in winter to 14.4 hours in summer — a difference of 4.5 hours.

Summer: 5:16 AM – 7:43 PM

Winter: 7:28 AM – 5:20 PM

Winter Solstice: Sunrise 7:28 AM, Sunset 5:20 PM Golden hour from 4:42 PM

Summer Solstice: Sunrise 5:16 AM, Sunset 7:43 PM Golden hour from 7:06 PM

Spring Equinox: Sunrise 6:42 AM, Sunset 6:36 PM Golden hour from 6:03 PM

Fall Equinox: Sunrise 6:11 AM, Sunset 6:38 PM Golden hour from 6:05 PM

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai Trip Planning & Access

Now for the logistics — distances, costs, and accessibility details for Upper Wolf Creek Group.

Phoenix is the nearest hub at 73 miles — here's the trip breakdown.

Nearest city: Phoenix (73 mi)

Estimated fuel cost: $18.22 (28 mpg, $3.5/gallon)

Carbon footprint: 58.9 kg CO2 (round trip by car)

Visitor Friendliness

Accessibility: dog-friendly (likely_allowed), family-friendly (excellent), elderly-friendly (highly_suitable).

Dogs: likely_allowed — No restrictions found
Families: excellent
Elderly: highly_suitable
Strollers: excellent (100/100)
Beginners: Perfect for beginners (Moderate difficulty (+5), Good information available (+5))
Accessibility: Generally accessible to most visitors (90/100)

Campground Details

Reservable

Places Near Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

Extend your trip with these nearby outdoor spots.

Nearby options include trails and campgrounds within a short drive.

Nearby Trails

Horsecamp Loop, Yavapai 0.94 mi
Wolf Creek Loop, Yavapai 0.95 mi
Groom Creek Nature Trail, Yavapai 1.48 mi
Groom Creek Loop, Yavapai 2.1 mi
Kendall Camp Trail, Yavapai 2.15 mi

Nearby Campgrounds

Fdr9406l-pipeline Rd-designated Disp., Yavapai 0.2 mi
Lower Wolf Creek Campground, Yavapai 0.37 mi
C101-wolf Creek Designated Dispersed Campground, Yavapai 0.5 mi
Fdr79-tritle Mtn -designated Disp. Campground, Yavapai 0.58 mi

Stargazing & Night Sky at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

The night sky adds another dimension to an overnight visit here.

The dark sky quality at Upper Wolf Creek Group (Bortle 4) places it among the better stargazing spots in the area.

Bortle 4 Rural/suburban transition

Constellations

Key constellations visible from this latitude include Ursa Minor, Cepheus.

Ursa Minor — Visible throughout the year in much of the United States, Ursa Minor rotates steadily around the North Celestial Pole.
Cepheus — Though its stars are modest in brightness, Cepheus is visible year-round from most of the U.S.

Meteor Showers

The Geminids peaks around December 13-14 and is the best meteor shower visible from here.

Geminids — peaks December 13-14 (excellent)
Find a dark location away from city lights and give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust for peak rates.
Quadrantids — peaks January 3-4 (excellent)
Look toward the northern sky after midnight for the highest activity.
Perseids — peaks August 11-13 (excellent)
Expect fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs under dark skies.
Eta Aquariids — peaks May 5-6 (good)
Plan for early morning viewing; activity increases in the hours just before sunrise.
Delta Aquariids — peaks July 28-29 (fair)
Southern states often see stronger activity due to radiant placement.

Planets

Planets visible to the naked eye from this location:

Venus — The brightest planet, often called the Morning or Evening Star
Jupiter — The largest planet, bright and steady in the night sky
Saturn — Famous for its rings, visible as a golden steady light
Mars — The Red Planet, recognizable by its reddish-orange hue

Equipment Guide

Naked eye: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Mercury (with care)
Binoculars: Jupiter moons, Uranus, Saturn rings (barely)
Small telescope: Saturn rings, Jupiter bands, Mars surface features, Neptune

Viewing Tips

Check planets rise/set times for your specific date
Planets appear along the ecliptic (zodiac path)
Planets don't twinkle like stars - steady light
Venus and Jupiter are unmistakable - brightest objects after Moon
Use a stargazing app to confirm planet positions
Best viewing: when planet is highest in sky (transit)

Best Viewing Months

Evening: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Morning: Jul, Aug, Sep

Seasonal Highlights at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

Beyond the night sky, the changing seasons shape what you'll experience here.

The seasonal rhythm at Upper Wolf Creek Group shapes what you'll see on the trail, in the sky, and across the landscape.

Spring Wildflowers

Peak bloom: March - April

Check local park websites for bloom reports

Fall Foliage

Peak color: October 15 – November 5

Best trees for color: Maple, Oak, Aspen

Higher elevations peak 1-2 weeks earlier

Bird Migration

Spring peak: March - April

Fall peak: October - November

Best spots: Wetlands, coastlines, mountain ridges

Indigenous Land at Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai

The natural world here has been shaped by thousands of years of Indigenous stewardship.

Recognition of Indigenous stewardship matters. Upper Wolf Creek Group lies within the ancestral lands of Hohokam, Yavapai Apache.

Territories

Languages

The languages traditionally spoken in this area include Yavapai.

Yavapai

Data from Native Land Digital

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai Geology & Natural History

Beyond the trails and wildlife, Upper Wolf Creek Group sits within a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological processes. Here's what researchers and surveys have documented about this area.

Bedrock Geology

Rock Type: Crooks Canyon Granite
Formation: Crooks Canyon Granodiorite
Age: Paleoproterozoic

Fossils

Fossil Occurrences: 75
Unique Species: 44
Oldest: 23 million years ago

Mineral Deposits

Deposit Sites: 604
Richness: Exceptional
Minerals Found: Gold, Copper, Silver, Lead, Zinc, Sand and Gravel, Construction, Iron

Endangered Species

Species at Risk: 1478
ESA Endangered: 29
ESA Threatened: 16
Conservation Score: 100/100

Temperature Records

Record High: 105°F (2021-06-16)
Record Low: -21°F (1937-01-22)

Wildfire History

This area has a relatively low wildfire risk, but always follow posted fire regulations.

Recorded Fires: 83
Largest Fire: Battle (31,801.8 acres)
Most Recent: 2024
Fire Risk: Extreme

Watershed

Watershed: Crooks Canyon
Water Quality (Good): 0%
Impaired: 0%

Reported Phenomena

UFO Sightings: 38 (NUFORC)
Bigfoot Reports: 2 (BFRO)
Haunted Places: 7 (Shadowlands)
Eeriness Score: 86/100

Upper Wolf Creek Group Campground, Yavapai Safety & Conditions

Check current conditions from these authoritative sources before you go.

Official condition reports for Upper Wolf Creek Group cover weather, wildfire activity, flood status, and road conditions.

Flood zone: Not in a flood zone

Nearest weather station: PRESCOTT 3.6 SW, AZ US (4.96 mi)