Herb Martyr Campground

Description:

• This small streamside campground is located on the banks of Cave creek at the end of the road that leads into Cave Creek Canyon. There is a small dam nearby that was built in 1935 and has since filled in with sediment and debris washed down from the mountains in a number of flash floods. During construction of the dam, a worker by the name of Herb was killed. Hence, the dam and campground were both named Herb Martyr.

  Campsites here are in two locations. One site is accessible from the upper of the two parking areas at Herb Martyr. Six other sites are located off a loop road that drops down toward the stream from the lower parking area. All sites are sheltered in the shade of oaks and other streamside trees. The upper site is on the banks of the stream, while the lower sites are situated on a bench above Cave Creek offering a good view of the waterfall formed by Herb Martyr Dam.

  Bird watching is excellent here at Herb Martyr. There are generally great wildflowers decorating the creek banks as well. Even if you don't camp, the drive to Herb Martyr is worthwhile for the view of 365 foot Winn Falls which tumbles off the shoulder of Sanders Peak. This area also serves as a trailhead for the Herb Martyr Trail #247 and the Ash Spring Trail #247A. The latter trail provides an excellent opportunity for a day hike loop that includes a couple of pleasant riparian areas, an old homestead site, and great views of Winn Falls. If you've got the time and energy, Herb Martyr Trail leads to the Snowshed Trail #246 and eventually to Crest Trail #270.