Valentine Ridge Campground is located below the Mogollon Rim on the south side of Valentine Canyon. Nearby is Canyon Creek, known for its rainbow trout fishing. The campground is set among a thick stand of Ponderosa pines, white and Douglas firs, and is a 1.5 mile drive to Canyon Creek (fly and lure fishing only), a trout creek that is stocked from the Canyon Creek Hatchery. The hatchery has self guided tours running throughout the week until 4 p.m. The hatchery is located between Upper Canyon Creek Campground and Airplane Flat Campground.
There is no water available at this campground. Bring your own water. Bear proof your campsite here and practice good bear safety.
During heavy rain or snow, the road might require chains or a 4WD vehicle.
There is a sewage dump located at the Ponderosa Campground or Canyon Point Campground. there is a $5.00 charge for use of the facility.
Located at the campground are several mountain bike loops please call 928-462-4300 for more information. A GPS or topo map helps, but according to the Pleasant Valley Ranger District, the trails are not hard to find.
Directions
From Payson travel 33 miles east on S.R. 260 to F.R. 512 (Young Road). Turn right onto Young Road and drive 6.2 miles to F.R. 188. Turn left on F.R. 188 and drive 2 miles to the campground.
General Notes
- Elevation: 6630′
- Season: April to November
- Stay Limit: 14 Days
- Campsites: 10 Dispersed
- Trailer Limit: 16′
- Potable Water: No
- Restrooms: Vault
- Showers available at Canyon Point Campground
- First Come – First Served Campground – Reservations are not accepted here
- Campsite tables, grills and fire rings
- No utility hookups
- Information: Pleasant Valley Ranger District (928)-462-4300
- Nearest Store: Forest Lakes