Marble Canyon
Sitting back in my seat, I wait for a bison to cross the road. I never realize how large these creatures are until I get next to one. I marvel at its deep brown coat and note the scars on its side. I am crossing House Rock Buffalo Ranch on my way to one of the most isolated and least-known campsites in the state. The road deadends at the edge of Marble Canyon, the gorge that eventually turns into the Grand Canyon. Primitive campsites are perched on the lip of the chasm.
I explore the ledges of the canyon for hours without hearing a car or seeing a jet. The isolation is absolute; the scenery magnificent. The Colorado River far below carries a group of rafters downstream toward the adventure of their lives. They have no idea that far above, I am having an adventure of my own. You will have many places to pitch your tent.
Directions: Take SR 89A west over Marble Canyon Bridge until you see the sign for Buffalo Ranch. Turn south and continue to follow the signs to the ranch. Instead of going to the headquarters, continue south on FR 445 until the road reaches the Marble Canyon overlooks.
More info: Arizona Strip District Office BLM, 801-673-3545
Bonita Canyon at the Chiricahua National Monument
Southeastern Arizona
“The Land of Standing Rocks” is what the Indians called the Chiricahua Mountains. Here, almost legendary hiking trails wind through a maze of massive columns and balancing rocks. The campground rests in a thick wood at the base of the canyon. Intelligently planned, the sites are widely spaced so noise pollution from neighbors is kept to a minimum. Hiking the monument’s numerous trails is one of my favorite pastimes, and I enjoy returning to this elegant campground at the end of a hard day.
Rhyolite columns on distant canyon walls peek through a canopy of oak trees, while an Arizona sunset fades in the sky. A cardinal may flit through the trees, or a deer might wander fearlessly through the site as I light the evening fire. At Chiricahua National Monument anything is possible. The ambiance of this campground is as rewarding as the landscape surrounding it.
Directions: Reach the monument by taking SR 181 east from SR 186.
More info: Chiricahua National Monument, 520-824-3560