Shannon Campground is small and tucked away along the upper reaches of Marijilda Creek, a pleasant little brook that winds through a setting of tall trees and green grass. Campsites are shaded under mature Engelmann spruce and Douglas-fir. Two three-sided wood shelters of the type originally developed in the Adirondack Mountains of New York add to the historic atmosphere of this campground.
The Arcadia Trail, which leads down the mountain from Shannon Campground to Arcadia Campground, has been designated a National Recreation Trail. A one-mile spur leads from this trail to the top of Heliograph Peak, a vantage point with a history as well as a view. This 10,022-foot vantage point once served as a location for signal mirrors used to communicate messages during the Apache Wars of the late 1880’s. Today you’ll find a Forest Service lookout tower on the mountaintop as well as some of the most panoramic views in southeastern Arizona.
Location: Shannon Campground is located in the Pinaleño Mountains 30 miles southwest of Safford.
Access: From Safford drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366. Turn right (southwest) onto 366 and drive 21.8 miles to the campground entrance on the right side of the road. Check local road conditions during winter months.
Elevation: 9,100'
Season: April 15 through November 14, weather permitting
Attractions:
Facilities:
Cool forested setting
11 individual sites with tables and fire grills
Mountain brook
Two Adirondack-style shelters
Hiking trails
Vault toilets
Notes:
No water available; bring your own.
Check local road conditions for access information at the beginning and end of season.
RV’s and vehicles with trailers up to 16' can be accommodated.
Arcadia National Recreation Trail leads from the lower end of Shannon Campground to Arcadia Campground for a 5.5 mile hike. A mile-long spur trail leads from the Arcadia Trail to the top of Heliograph Peak.
Nearest first aid - Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center in Safford, 30 miles.
Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground.
Bear Warning: To avoid putting a bear’s life in danger and risking the loss of some of your own property, please dispose of all garbage in the bear-proof containers provided. Also, remember to keep all food out of reach and out of sight of these curious and powerful animals
