Idlewilde Campground is the first campground you encounter as you enter Cave Creek Canyon from the east. To get to these 9 streamside sites shaded by Arizona cypress trees, you’ll have to traverse Cave Creek on a one lane bridge.
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 Campgound to the Silver Peak Trailhead.
Sites at Idlewild are best suited for camping in tents, vans, or pickup truck campers. No trailers are permitted.
Note: Black bears are common in the area.
Nearby Activities
- Auto touring
- Camping
- Interpretive programs
- Hiking
- Visitor center
- Wildlife viewing
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.
GPS Coordinates
Latitude 31° 53′ 39.5268″ N
Longitude 109° 9′ 57.7404″ W