Overview
Small, quiet loop tucked in the trees off Cherry Road - picnic tables, rings, vault toilets, and not much else. That’s the charm.
Powell Springs is a low-key Forest Service campground that works when you want shade, a level pad, and an easy overnighter in the Verde Valley/Mingus foothills. Sites sit beneath juniper and pine with decent privacy. It’s first-come and fills on fair-weather weekends.
No hookups, usually no potable water - plan to be self-contained. Wind can funnel down the slope in storm builds, but most sites are protected by trees.
Why go
Shaded, simple campground close to Cottonwood/Jerome without the bustle of a state park.Watch out for
Limited site count, first-come demand, and seasonal closures or fire restrictions.Roll in with water on board and grab a site with afternoon shade - mornings run quiet and blue in the trees.