Apache Junction's Mining Camp won't reopen in wake of devastating fire

The Mining Camp Restaurant, a longtime fixture in Apache Junction that drew scores of locals and winter visitors to savor its family-style dining and Old West allure, will not reopen as hoped after a fire destroyed the building last summer, its owner said Friday.

In a message posted on the restaurant's Facebook page, Vinton Fugate confirmed the restaurant, which has remained closed since the July 25, 2017, fire, would not reopen.

"While reaching this decision has been a long road traveled, and it’s been an emotional, heart wrenching time for us, after long debate, we must close this chapter with much optimism and move on in our lives,'' Fugate wrote.

"Looking back over the years we have confronted seemingly insurmountable business challenges and enjoyed many successes,'' he said. "Through both, we have learned and are forever grateful for the experience. We wish to thank all our customers, the community for its outpouring of support, and the wonderful staff that helped to make it such a success.''

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The Mining Camp was built in 1961, Fugate told The Arizona Republic last year after the fire. He said he had started as a dishwasher at the restaurant, then became part-owner in the 1980s, and then sole owner.

The property included two other structures aside from the restaurant, but neither was damaged.

The restaurant was known for its long, family-style tables and meals served the same way, with platters of ribs, chicken and sides. Live music and an adjacent gift shop, all with an Old West flair, were hallmarks of the restaurant and its surrounding terrain with its close-up views of the Superstition Mountains.

In the months after the fire, supporters rallied around the restaurant's employees and owners, hoping the Mining Camp would be rebuilt and open again, after initial indications that was the plan from some employees. Fugate was mum on his plans, saying only that the situation still was up in the air earlier this year.

READ MORE: Mining Camp restaurant loss stirs memories of its history

Dozens of people expressed their disappointment in the decision on Facebook, but thanked Fugate for the years he operated the restaurant.

"Sad to see you go,'' wrote one fan. "Been eating there since you opened. I was 7 years old and loved it.''

Added another: "While this isn't the result any of us wanted to hear, we respect your heart-wrenching decision. As an Arizona native, thank you for the many memories. I hold them close to my heart. I wish you the very best.''