Prescott National Forest

Central Arizona's mild climate makes the Prescott National Forest a year-round destination to camp, fish, picnic, hike, and ride!

Photo credit: USDA Forest Service

Comprised of about 1.25 million acres, the Prescott National Forest borders three other National Forests in Arizona: Kaibab, Coconino, and Tonto. Roughly half of the forest lies west of the city of Prescott, Arizona, in the Juniper, Santa Maria, Sierra Prieta, and Bradshaw Mountains. The other half of the Forest lies east of Prescott and takes in the Black Hills, Mingus Mountain, Black Mesa, and the headwaters of the Verde River. Administratively, the Prescott National Forest is comprised of three Ranger Districts: the Bradshaw Ranger District, the Chino Valley Ranger District and the Verde Ranger District. The Forest is also home to the Prescott Fire Center and Henry Y. H. Kim Aviation Facility.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/prescott

Wilderness Areas/Wild & Scenic Rivers

Apache Creek Wilderness - Rolling hills of juniper and pinyon interspersed with granite outcrops characterize this small, remote and relatively rugged wilderness. 

Castle Creek Wilderness - This wilderness of 25,517 acres sits on the eastern slopes of the Bradshaw Mountains and is characterized by extremely rugged topography with prominent granite peaks that overlook the Agua Fria River.

Cedar Bench Wilderness - Offering 32 miles of trails, hikers come explore Cedar Bench Wilderness!

Granite Mountain Wilderness - Granite Mountain Wilderness is a popular wilderness due to its proximity to Prescott and the unique experience it offers for hiking among huge granite boulders, rock formations, and the outstanding view of the surrounding area.

Juniper Mesa Wilderness - A great variety of wildlife can be found in the area. Black bear, elk, mule deer, bobcat, and Abert's squirrel are relatively common.

Pine Mountain Wilderness - Recreational opportunities include: hiking, backpacking, and horse riding.

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness - Established in 1935, this area contains a unique canyon-land environment.

Woodchute Wilderness - This small wilderness offers relatively easy access and spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks and panoramic vistas of central Arizona.

Invasive Species