Portal CCC House

Overview

The Portal CCC House is a five-room cabin located just west of Portal, Arizona. The fieldstone masonry cabin has been determined eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the few remaining structures from the 1930s-era Cave Creek Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) Camp. The CCC House was built to serve as the camp's garage; the large vehicle entries were later filled in and the structure was converted to housing for a telephone switchboard and its operator. While the historic appearance has been maintained on the exterior, the interior was remodeled to provide modern amenities for visitors.

Recreation

Cave Creek Canyon is located on the eastern slope of the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona, about 2 1/2 hours from Tucson. Cave Creek Canyon is world-renowned for its dramatic rock formations and diverse wildlife. Birding is exceptional year-round, and particularly rewarding during the summer months. Hiking and rock-climbing are also popular activities, and the canyon has numerous picnic areas along Cave Creek for hikers.

Facilities

The Portal CCC House is a five-room cabin, suitable for up to five people. It has electricity and running water. The cabin has two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a large kitchen/dining area. The first bedroom has a twin-over-double bunk bed; the second has a queen-sized futon. A table with seating for four is located in the dining area, which also has a wood burning stove (firewood is provided). The kitchen is equipped with a stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, and coffee pot. Pots pans, utensils, and dishes are provided. Outside, guests will enjoy using the propane grill and furniture for outdoor dining.

Although the cabin has amenities for comfortable lodging, guests will need to provide some of their own supplies, including food, sleeping bags or linens, pillows, towels, dish soap, matches, a first aid kit, toilet paper, and garbage bags. It is recommended that guests bring additional drinking water and flashlight in case of emergencies.

Natural Features

The Portal CCC House is located at the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon at an elevation of 5,000 feet. The canyon's soaring cliffs, with their caves and pinnacles, are often described as "Arizona's 'Secret' Grand Canyon." Cave Creek, a perennial stream, flows nearby.

Nearby Attractions

The Portal CCC House is located approximately one mile west of Portal, Arizona. Attractions in the area include Chiricahua National Monument, Fort Bowie National Historical Park, historic Camp Rucker, the Geronimo Surrender sites, and the International Border and the border community of Douglas, Arizona.