Drive 22 miles south of Alpine on US Highway 191 past Hannagan Meadow Resort to Hannagan Campground on the west (right).

The campsite has access to a wonderful network of hiking trails that wanders all through this high forest and beyond -- all the way down to the bottom of Blue River Canyon in the middle of the Blue Primitive area. And if that's not enough hiking for you, it's only a few miles to Bear Wallow Wilderness area where you'll find native trout swimming in the streams and even more backcountry to explore.

Nearby hiking trails and scenic drives, close to the primitive area and wilderness. At 9100 feet, this is one of the highest campgrounds in Arizona. With that in mind, you might suspect that it is cool up here, deliciously cool--when it is hot everywhere else. You might also suspect that the surroundings are alpine. Right again! High country tree species such as Colorado Blue and Engelmann spruce, sub alpine and cork bark fir and quaking aspen shade these campgrounds.

The under story is made up of plants you might more readily expect to run across in Canada or the American northwest. Two species of columbine, several hard to find orchids, and some of Arizona's best mushrooming can be found here. The wildlife species you'll see here are high country dwellers too. Elk, mule deer and wild turkey make regular appearances in the meadows and forests that surround Hannagan and KP Cienega.

Black bear sightings happen frequently enough not to be considered rare, but don't worry, these bears are wild. They want to get close to you even less than you want to get up close and personal with them. In the trees you'll see Abert squirrels, and Steller jays, and if you have a sharp eye you might catch a glimpse of a rare northern goshawk.

Hannagan is situated in a tall, mature forest with trees towering over the campsites. And there's a picturesque little resort and restaurant nearby too, where you can escape your own cooking or pick up a few things you might have forgotten to bring.

Elevation: 9,120 feet above sea level

Season: Late spring to early fall

Fee: Check with forest for current fees.

Notes: No hookups, Pets must be restrained or on a leash, Lodge and restaurant at nearby Hannagan Meadow, and Campground hosts available May thru September