Chess Clubs in Payson, Arizona. The list of addresses.
Chess Clubs in Payson, AZ and Surrounding Areas
Nestled in the heart of Arizona’s Mogollon Rim country, Payson and nearby communities offer several chess opportunities for players of all skill levels. This guide details local clubs, casual meetups, and playing options available to residents and visitors in the Payson area.
1. Payson Chess Club
Address: Payson Public Library – 328 N McLane Rd, Payson, AZ 85541
Description: The Payson Chess Club meets weekly in the library’s community room, offering a welcoming environment for players of all ages. The group maintains a balance between casual play and competitive matches, with experienced players often providing instruction to newcomers. The club provides tournament-quality sets and clocks, and hosts monthly rated games. Special events include an annual Rim Country Chess Championship.
2. Pine-Strawberry Chess Society
Address: Pine Community Center – 3916 N Highway 87, Pine, AZ 85544 (15 minutes northeast)
Description: This active chess group meets twice weekly in Pine’s historic community center. The club attracts players from throughout the Mogollon Rim region, with a particular focus on senior players and families. The rustic mountain setting provides a unique atmosphere for chess games, and the group frequently organizes potluck chess socials.
3. Show Low Chess Club
Address: Show Low Public Library – 181 N 9th St, Show Low, AZ 85901 (1 hour northeast)
Description: For players willing to travel, this established club meets weekly and participates in White Mountain chess circuits. The group includes several tournament-rated players and hosts regular competitive events. Their annual White Mountain Open attracts players from throughout eastern Arizona.
4. Tonto Basin Chess Gathering
Address: Tonto Basin Community Center – 240 Solgahamiah Dr, Tonto Basin, AZ 85553 (45 minutes southwest)
Description: This informal chess group meets monthly in the lakeside community. The gathering has a relaxed, social atmosphere while still maintaining good competitive play. Players often combine chess with fishing trips to nearby Roosevelt Lake.
5. Mogollon Rim Chess Festival
Address: Payson Event Center – 415 S Beeline Hwy, Payson, AZ 85541 (annual summer event)
Description: Payson’s signature chess event features three days of tournaments, simultaneous exhibitions, and chess lectures. The festival draws players from throughout central Arizona and includes divisions for all skill levels. The cool mountain temperatures make it a popular summer chess destination.
Tournament Opportunities
Payson-area players can participate in:
Rim Country Chess Championship (annual fall event)
White Mountain Chess Circuit (rotates between Show Low and Payson)
Arizona High Country Senior Tournament
Youth Chess Programs
Several area schools offer chess instruction:
Payson Unified School District after-school chess clubs
Pine-Strawberry Elementary chess program
Mogollon Chess Academy weekend classes
Getting Involved
New players can attend any club meeting without prior registration. The Payson Chess Club offers free beginner lessons on first Saturdays. Most groups request small donations ($2-5) to support facility costs and equipment. The Pine-Strawberry group is particularly welcoming to vacationing players.
Future Developments
Plans include:
Installing permanent outdoor chess tables at Green Valley Park
Expanding chess programs in Rim Country schools
Creating a Mogollon Rim Chess League connecting area clubs
Final Thoughts
Payson’s chess scene offers a unique small-town atmosphere with surprisingly robust playing opportunities. The area’s cool mountain climate and scenic beauty provide an exceptional setting for both casual and competitive chess. For current schedules and event information, contact the Payson Public Library or Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce. With growing interest in the area, new chess opportunities continue to develop for players of all ages and skill levels in Arizona’s high country.
