You're Invited!

After four years of planning and preparation, I'm thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of AZ Places — and you're invited to be part of our special launch campout! This is a fun and relaxed opportunity to preview the AZ Places experience, help us test our setup, try out our menu, and share your ideas and feedback.

📍 Location: Black Canyon Area on the Mogollon Rim Roughly 130 miles (2.5 hrs) from Downtown Chandler

We will locate a spot likely past the Black Canyon Rim Campground, on the Rim Road (FS300) on Tuesday the 8th. We will text you the exact location. Approx. Coordinates:  34.29854, -110.73491 | 34°17'54.7"N 110°44'05.7"W

DIRECTIONS: Take AZ-87 N to Payson, Turn right onto AZ-260 E, travel 38.4 and take a right onto Rim Road East. Rim Road East is 2.9 miles from Gilligan's Forest Lakes General Store in Forest Lakes. Appears to be open 7am-9pm. See Image, yellow markers are spots that have been scouted as potential sites.

What is in the Area

• Black Canyon Lake for trout fishing, non motorized boats are allowed. Do note the water level appears to be low.

• Gentry Lookout Tower

• Exploring & Hiking

• Wild Horses

Weather (Forest Lakes, AZ) See Forecast

• Bring your layers.

• 40% chance of rain on Saturday and Sunday.

• High 86-89*, lows 61*

• Expect some wind

• UV Index Extreme

Meals & Potluck Info

We’ll be providing meals throughout the campout.

Please RSVP so we can plan and prepare accordingly.

Friday the 12th dinner is a potluck — bring a dish to share.

Pot Luck Menu 6 people - Friday: Hamburgers with toppings, Macaroni Salad, Pesto Pasta

8 people - Saturday: Dutch Oven Lasagna with Salad & Rolls

Known Allergies: celery, onion

Food Provided (Still updating) Dinner Thursday: Bean Soup

Lunches Options Friday-Sunday (Includes Fruit and Chips)

• Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwiches

• Turkey & Cheese Sandwiches

• Egg Salad Sandwiches

• Chicken Salad Sandwiches
  

Breakfast Friday-Sunday (Includes Fruit)

• Huevos Rancheros - corn tortillas, black beans, egg and Pico de Gallo.

• Frittata - Eggs, Ham, Spinach, Tomatoes, Scallions, and Cheddar Cheese.

• Dutch Oven French Toast with blueberries and Sausage.
  

What to Bring:

• Bring your own drinks, water and any personal snacks or favorites.

• Your personal items and sleeping bag (Don’t have a sleeping bag? No problem — just let me know!)

• Optional: Any of your own favorite gear

View the full Packing List: What You Bring to Camp

All other supplies and camping equipment will be provided.

Why Come?

• Preview AZ Places before launch

• Meet great people & enjoy nature

• Share feedback and ideas

• Relax, eat, and enjoy great company

Please RSVP to reserve your spot and help us plan meals.

I can't wait to camp with you and share what we’ve built — together!