In arid lands, water is a finite resource. Take care to protect and conserve it. Throughout Aravaipa's side canyons, dispersed pools ensure that animals have access to precious drinking water. Avoid introducing anything to the water supply. Body oils, synthetic lotions, and sunscreens become concentrated, pollute drinking water, and harm the aquatic creatures living in the pools. Do not pour dishwater into the creek or pools.

Camping well away from the stream or trails reduces not only stream contamination but also interference with wildlife. Wild animals and their predators regularly visit the stream at night, and require uninhibited access to survive and thrive.

Good campsites are found, not made. Use existing campsites. Keep campsites small. Focus activities where vegetation is absent. Avoid places where impacts are just beginning.

Leave your campsite as undisturbed, or even more natural looking, than you found it. You will be doing your part to leave the wilderness WILD!

Can I have a campfire?

Yes, but lightweight backpacking stoves are the recommended and ideal option in Aravaipa Canyon. Clean burning and efficient, they help you to truly "leave no trace".

If you must have a campfire, use dead and down vegetation only that you can break with your hands. No axes or saws please! Small twigs and branches can be completely consumed, allowing easy cleanup of the ashes, and less risk of a wildfire. How resourceful are you? Use existing fire rings away from rock faces to prevent ugly scars. Small campfires require less fuel to keep going and result in fewer blackened rocks in the fire ring. A fire ring no larger than 18 inches across will meet the needs of a large group. Many visitors are able to provide all their needs with a fire ring no larger than 5 inches across! They will still cook and warm substantial quantities of food and drink.

Ensure that fires are out and ashes are cold before leaving your campsite, even for a day hike. Temporary campfire restrictions are sometimes imposed during times of extreme fire danger. Be sure to know the current restrictions.

Can we camp at the West end trailhead?

No, the trailhead and surrounding land is private property owned by The Nature Conservancy. Camping is restricted. Limited camping is available across from the Brandenburg Ranger Station and in the wilderness for permit holders.

At the West side, Brandenburg Campsite is identified by a sign along Aravaipa Road. There are restrooms and trash cans. Fires are not allowed. Space is very limited. Only one small group can occupy this site and no other public land is available outside the wilderness for camping on the West end.

Can we camp at the East end trailhead?

Yes, at the East side, two camping areas are available. Fourmile Canyon Campground, located about one mile southwest of the Klondyke Store has 10 units with picnic tables, grills and a flush toilet. Fourmile Canyon has a fee of $5.00 per night. The second area is Turkey Creek, a primitive camping area with no facilities. Turkey Creek is located near the East wilderness entrance and has no fee.

Please remember that, on both entrances, campsites are limited and are on a first-come, first-served basis.