Places to Camp near Payson, AZ

Camping near Payson, Arizona

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Payson is a gateway to some of the most scenic and diverse camping experiences in the state. Whether you're looking for a serene lakeside retreat, a rugged forest adventure, or a family-friendly campground with all the amenities, Payson has something to offer. With its proximity to the Mogollon Rim and several national forests, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

From established campgrounds with full hookups to dispersed sites where you can truly get away from it all, the options are plentiful. However, each campground has its unique charm and quirks, so it's essential to know what to expect. This guide will help you navigate the best camping spots near Payson, highlighting what people love, what they don't, and tips to make your camping trip unforgettable.

What to do

Camping near Payson offers a variety of activities for all types of adventurers. From hiking and fishing to simply relaxing by the campfire, there's no shortage of things to do.

One of the top spots is Houston Mesa Campground, where you can enjoy swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson. As Brad and Britany B. noted, "The campground's proximity to swimming holes, hiking trails, and the charming town of Payson provides endless opportunities for exploration and adventure." Read more.

For those who love fishing, Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon is a great choice. Nancy C. shared, "We fished a couple of lakes and they were stocked regularly with lots of shore access." Read more.

If you're into hiking, Christopher Creek offers trails that run along the creek, providing beautiful views of the Mogollon Rim. Kim G. mentioned, "We had a view of the Mogollon Rim from our campsite that really showed up as the sun was setting." Read more.

What campers like

Campers have a lot to love about the campgrounds near Payson. From friendly staff to clean facilities, many sites offer a welcoming and comfortable experience.

At Houston Mesa Campground, the staff and spacious sites are a big hit. Brad and Britany B. said, "The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere." Read more.

The cleanliness and maintenance of Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon are also appreciated. Sharon F. noted, "Clean, well maintained. Helpful camp hosts. Very large sites and lots of first come first served as well as reservable spaces." Read more.

Campers at Knoll Lake Campground enjoy the wildlife and clean facilities. Roman R. shared, "Knoll lake campground is very clean and well kept. Designated areas for tents that were raked up. The bathrooms were cleaner than most restaurants." Read more.

What you should know

While camping near Payson has many perks, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth trip.

Some campgrounds, like Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area, can get quite noisy and crowded, especially on weekends. Lex C. mentioned, "Campgrounds were FULL of ATV users and loud music until 11-12pm." Read more.

Access to certain lakes can be challenging. Tyler D. noted about Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area, "Very hard to get to the lake. Have to climb down a steep mountain/hill." Read more.

At Christopher Creek, the proximity to the main highway can result in some traffic noise. Karl K. shared, "It’s also not very far off the main highway so traffic noise was noticeable at night." Read more.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with family can be a rewarding experience, especially when you choose the right campground. Here are some tips to make your family camping trip near Payson enjoyable.

Houston Mesa Campground is a fantastic choice for families. Brad and Britany B. highlighted, "Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees." Read more.

For a quieter experience, consider visiting Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon during the weekdays. Nancy C. advised, "Fun place to visit Monday thru Friday." Read more.

If you're looking for a campground with amenities like a pool, Payson Campground & RV Resort might be the place for you. Nick C. shared, "Property is kept up very well and staff were very friendly and helpful!" Read more.

Tips from RVers

RV camping near Payson offers a mix of convenience and adventure. Here are some tips from fellow RVers to help you make the most of your trip.

Carr Lake Campground on Forest Road 9350 is a great spot for boondocking. Neil H. mentioned, "Right on the edge of the Mogollon Rim. Fire pit, FREE, large area with 2 bars Verizon signal. No amenities. Pack in, pack out." Read more.

For those who prefer full hookups, Payson Campground & RV Resort is a solid choice. Chris P. noted, "Sites are clean and maintained and full hook ups including sewer, electric and water." Read more.

If you're looking for a more rustic experience, Mogollon Campground offers a great balance. Nick C. shared, "Ended up being a cool little spot with a concrete pad, picnic table, fire pit and vault toilets." Read more.

Camping near Payson, Arizona, offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to rugged forest adventures. Whether you're camping with family, in an RV, or looking for a quiet spot to relax, there's something for everyone. Just remember to plan ahead, respect the environment, and enjoy the natural beauty that Payson has to offer.

Map showing campgrounds near Payson, Arizona

Best Camping Sites Near Payson, AZ (284)

1.
Houston Mesa Campground
37 Reviews
123 Photos
293 Saves
Payson, Arizona
Overview
Houston Mesa Campground is located in the forested northern section of Tonto National Forest, just one mile north of Payson, Arizona and less than two hours from Phoenix. With family, equestrian and tent-only campsites, this campground can accommodate a range of visitors and offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails nearby. As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited "urban" forests in the United States (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.
Recreation
Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Houston Mesa Loop Trail is a 9-mile round trip through a pinyon and juniper woodland and can be accessed from the horse camping area. The Houston Mesa Interpretive Trail is a 0.5-mile self-guided trail.
Facilities
Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Houston Mesa Loop Trail is a 9-mile round trip through a pinyon and juniper woodland and can be accessed from the horse camping area. The Houston Mesa Interpretive Trail is a 0.5-mile self-guided trail.
Natural Features
The campground is located at an elevation of 5,200 ft. in a mixed forest and shrub area, with spacious campsites offering both sun and shade. Winters are pleasant and cool with cold nighttime temperatures, while summers are warm and sunny, providing a nice getaway from the hotter deserts around Phoenix. Hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk and coyote live in the area.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.
Nearby Attractions
Campers who make the quick trip to the town of Payson, one mile south, will find restaurants, shopping and other conveniences. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, which embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath the Mogollon Rim.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
$20 - $22 / night
2.
Christopher Creek
20 Reviews
64 Photos
287 Saves
Kohls Ranch, Arizona
Overview
With an elevation over a mile-high(5640 ft), Christopher Creek Campground's crisp, fresh air and vibrant views are a joy to behold. The facility is tucked along the banks of the spring-fed Christopher Creek, which passes just below the Mogollon Rim. The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 ft in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Christopher Creek is located in the desert portion, but is balanced by the cool waters of the creek and forested surroundings.
Recreation
After a day of horseback riding or mountain biking, take a dip in one of the facility's three swimming holes to cool off from the summer sun. Each spring, the creek is stocked with rainbow trout, allowing anglers the opportunity to cast their hearts out for rainbows as well as brook and brown trout.
Facilities
After a day of horseback riding or mountain biking, take a dip in one of the facility's three swimming holes to cool off from the summer sun. Each spring, the creek is stocked with rainbow trout, allowing anglers the opportunity to cast their hearts out for rainbows as well as brook and brown trout.
Natural Features
Christopher Creek provides creek side dwelling in Tonto National Forest, at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Sites are surrounded by ponderosa pines, junipers, oaks and manzanita evergreen shrubs.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.
Nearby Attractions
The small town of Christopher Creek is just a short drive away and offers a few restaurant options for those who tire of cooking at the campground.. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 10 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating as well as a nature trail that loops around the lake's perimeter.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
$80 / night
3.
Payson Campground & RV Resort
15 Reviews
35 Photos
106 Saves
Payson, Arizona
Welcome to Payson Campground & RV Resort, a convenient and well-maintained spot near the town of Payson, AZ. This campground is a great place to park your RV or pitch a tent, especially if you're looking for a mix of comfort and accessibility.
One of the standout features here is the full hook-ups available at many sites, including sewer, electric, and water. This makes it a breeze for RV travelers to settle in without any hassle. The campground also boasts a nice pool, perfect for cooling off on those warm Arizona days. The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, which adds a welcoming touch to your stay.
The campground is close to town, so if you need to grab supplies or want to explore local shops and restaurants, you're just a short walk or drive away. This proximity does mean you might hear some road noise, but many visitors find the convenience outweighs this minor drawback.
For those traveling with pets, you'll be glad to know that pets are allowed. However, the dog park is on the smaller side, so keep that in mind if your furry friend needs a lot of space to run around.
If you're bringing the family, there's a playground, though it's pretty basic. The campground is also big-rig friendly, so no worries if you're rolling in with a larger setup.
Overall, Payson Campground & RV Resort offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience with clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay, it's a solid choice for your next camping trip.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
4.
Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon
21 Reviews
58 Photos
355 Saves
Forest Lakes, Arizona
Overview
Aspen Campground is a scenic hideaway for anglers, boaters, families and photographers, located in north central Arizona near Heber and Payson. It sits in a dense pine and aspen area forest near the shore of Woods Canyon Lake at an elevation of 7,000 ft. With spacious campsites, calm and scenic lake waters, a marina, boat ramp and many amenities, Aspen is one of the most popular camping spots in Arizona.
Recreation
Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking, boating and photography. Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Two other lakes are within a short drive. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the campground's paved roads make for great bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.
Facilities
Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking, boating and photography. Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Two other lakes are within a short drive. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the campground's paved roads make for great bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.
Natural Features
The large and rambling campground offers several camping experiences and environments from marshy meadows to a rocky forest. Wildlife viewing includes birds, squirrels, deer and elk. Deer, skunks and bears are common campground visitors. Summer temperatures can be very pleasant because of the elevation. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for rain and cool nighttime temperatures.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is only a short drive from Aspen Campground. Visitors can find an informative staff as well as books and gifts related to the local area. The nearest towns are Heber and Payson.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Cabins
$34 / night
5.
Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
18 Reviews
74 Photos
534 Saves
Forest Lakes, Arizona
A beautiful, narrow, canyon-bound lake, accessible by foot trail only, Bear Canyon Lake is one of several in a series of fishing lakes built by Arizona Game and Fish Department. Despite being several miles down a dirt road and having few amenities, it draws many visitors. The partially developed campground which is set among the mixed conifer, oak and aspen, has only limited amenities. Bear Canyon Lake is a "Pack it in - Pack it out" area. There is NO GARBAGE SERVICE. Please be good stewards of the land and leave the area better than how you found it.
For purposes of fire restrictions, this campground is considered to be an 'undeveloped' campground. No fires will be permitted when fire restrictions are in effect for the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest.
At an elevation of 7,560, Bear Canyon Lake consists of 60 surface acres with a maximum depth of 50 feet. Because of its depth, this lake has no water quality problems. The Arizona Department of Game and Fish stocks it with catchable-sized rainbow trout about six times each year.
Arizona fishing regulations apply. Please refer to the current year fishing regulations brochure produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for further details on licensing requirements, daily bag limits, and other restrictions. Boat motors are restricted to electric motors only.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
6.
Ponderosa Campground (AZ) Tonto National Forest
9 Reviews
54 Photos
128 Saves
Kohls Ranch, Arizona
Overview
Named for the towering pines under which it sits, Ponderosa Campground is tucked in the rolling forests of northern Arizona. As the fifth-largest forest in the country, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited urban forests in the United States, boasting about 5.8 million visitors annually. Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.
Recreation
Most visitors enjoy walking along the campground's nature trail, traveling into the town of Payson, taking advantage of the area's hiking trails and lakes or simply relaxing at the campsite. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 15 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating.
Facilities
Most visitors enjoy walking along the campground's nature trail, traveling into the town of Payson, taking advantage of the area's hiking trails and lakes or simply relaxing at the campsite. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 15 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating.
Natural Features
The ponderosa pine trees make this a memorable campground. Larger ponderosas release a vanilla scent into the air and have a relatively open understory, making the area perfect for camping. Mixed into the understory are junipers, oaks and manzanita shrubs. The campground sits on the border of the Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," a 200-mile-long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.
Nearby Attractions
The nearby town of Payson, Arizona, offers restaurants, shopping and other conveniences.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$100 / night
7.
Kehl Springs Campground
9 Reviews
11 Photos
215 Saves
Pine, Arizona
Kehl Springs Camp is located in a stand of ponderosa pines right at the brink of one of Arizona's most awesome geologic features, the Mogollon Rim. Just a short distance from these shady campsites the rim brings the Colorado Plateau to an endwith a precipitous drop-off that plunges two thousand feet from forested highland to Sonoran desert. From this high perspective you can enjoy spectacular views of Four Peaks, the Sierra Anchas, and the Mazatzals. At night, the lights of Payson wink up from 2,000 feet down and 15 miles away. Other recreation activities to enjoy nearby include hiking, mountain biking, fishing and boating. The General Crook Historic Trail and the Rim Country Scenic Drive pass right by the campground.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$8 / night
8.
Upper Tonto Creek Campground
8 Reviews
43 Photos
233 Saves
Sun Valley, Arizona
Upper Tonto Creek Campground The union of Tonto and Horton Creeks is at the north end of the campground. Fishing in both creeks is a popular sport. The trailheads for Horton Creek Trail 285 and Derrick Trail 33 are located in the campground. Both of these trails access the Highline National Recreation Trail (#31). Tonto Fish Hatchery is four miles north of Highway 260 on Forest Road 289. The Arizona Game & Fish Department welcomes visitors and has a self-guided tour of the hatchery.
- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$10 - $38 / night
9.
Mogollon Campground
11 Reviews
28 Photos
168 Saves
Kohls Ranch, Arizona
Overview
Mogollon Campground, although not directly in the Woods Canyon Recreation area, sits just outside and is only two miles from the lake. For those who like spectacular views, this campground is one of the closest to the Mogollon Rim.
Recreation
Fishing and boating are available at Woods Canyon Lake which is approximately three miles from the campground on Road 105.
Facilities
Fishing and boating are available at Woods Canyon Lake which is approximately three miles from the campground on Road 105.
Natural Features
Mogollon Campground is surrounded by ponderosa pines. The road to Mogollon is a sandy road off of Road 300. The campground itself is also sandy and gravel.
contact_info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.
Nearby Attractions
Some groceries are available at the Marina Store at Woods Canyon Lake which is approximately three miles from the campground. The store also offers boat and kayak rentals. Woods Canyon Lake is a great lake for fishing.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
$18 / night
10.
FS 609 - Dispersed Camping
8 Reviews
13 Photos
262 Saves
Strawberry, Arizona
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- WiFi

Showing results 1-10 of 284 campgrounds

Popular Camping Styles near Payson

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Pet-friendly camping near Payson

Houston Mesa Campground

Overview

Houston Mesa Campground is located in the forested northern section of Tonto National Forest, just one mile north of Payson, Arizona and less than two hours from Phoenix. With family, equestrian and tent-only campsites, this campground can accommodate a range of visitors and offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails nearby. As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited "urban" forests in the United States (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.

Recreation

Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Houston Mesa Loop Trail is a 9-mile round trip through a pinyon and juniper woodland and can be accessed from the horse camping area. The Houston Mesa Interpretive Trail is a 0.5-mile self-guided trail.

Facilities

Natural Features

The campground is located at an elevation of 5,200 ft. in a mixed forest and shrub area, with spacious campsites offering both sun and shade. Winters are pleasant and cool with cold nighttime temperatures, while summers are warm and sunny, providing a nice getaway from the hotter deserts around Phoenix. Hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk and coyote live in the area.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

Nearby Attractions

Campers who make the quick trip to the town of Payson, one mile south, will find restaurants, shopping and other conveniences. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, which embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath the Mogollon Rim.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

$20 - $22 / night

Christopher Creek

Overview

With an elevation over a mile-high(5640 ft), Christopher Creek Campground's crisp, fresh air and vibrant views are a joy to behold. The facility is tucked along the banks of the spring-fed Christopher Creek, which passes just below the Mogollon Rim. The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 ft in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Christopher Creek is located in the desert portion, but is balanced by the cool waters of the creek and forested surroundings.

Recreation

After a day of horseback riding or mountain biking, take a dip in one of the facility's three swimming holes to cool off from the summer sun. Each spring, the creek is stocked with rainbow trout, allowing anglers the opportunity to cast their hearts out for rainbows as well as brook and brown trout.

Facilities

Natural Features

Christopher Creek provides creek side dwelling in Tonto National Forest, at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Sites are surrounded by ponderosa pines, junipers, oaks and manzanita evergreen shrubs.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

Nearby Attractions

The small town of Christopher Creek is just a short drive away and offers a few restaurant options for those who tire of cooking at the campground.. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 10 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating as well as a nature trail that loops around the lake's perimeter.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

$80 / night

Payson Campground & RV Resort

Welcome to Payson Campground & RV Resort, a convenient and well-maintained spot near the town of Payson, AZ. This campground is a great place to park your RV or pitch a tent, especially if you're looking for a mix of comfort and accessibility.

One of the standout features here is the full hook-ups available at many sites, including sewer, electric, and water. This makes it a breeze for RV travelers to settle in without any hassle. The campground also boasts a nice pool, perfect for cooling off on those warm Arizona days. The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, which adds a welcoming touch to your stay.

The campground is close to town, so if you need to grab supplies or want to explore local shops and restaurants, you're just a short walk or drive away. This proximity does mean you might hear some road noise, but many visitors find the convenience outweighs this minor drawback.

For those traveling with pets, you'll be glad to know that pets are allowed. However, the dog park is on the smaller side, so keep that in mind if your furry friend needs a lot of space to run around.

If you're bringing the family, there's a playground, though it's pretty basic. The campground is also big-rig friendly, so no worries if you're rolling in with a larger setup.

Overall, Payson Campground & RV Resort offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience with clean facilities and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you're just passing through or planning a longer stay, it's a solid choice for your next camping trip.

Pets
Fires
Electric Hookups
Phone Service

Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon

21 Reviews

58 Photos

355 Saves

Forest Lakes, Arizona

Overview

Aspen Campground is a scenic hideaway for anglers, boaters, families and photographers, located in north central Arizona near Heber and Payson. It sits in a dense pine and aspen area forest near the shore of Woods Canyon Lake at an elevation of 7,000 ft. With spacious campsites, calm and scenic lake waters, a marina, boat ramp and many amenities, Aspen is one of the most popular camping spots in Arizona.

Recreation

Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking, boating and photography. Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Two other lakes are within a short drive. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the campground's paved roads make for great bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.

Facilities

Natural Features

The large and rambling campground offers several camping experiences and environments from marshy meadows to a rocky forest. Wildlife viewing includes birds, squirrels, deer and elk. Deer, skunks and bears are common campground visitors. Summer temperatures can be very pleasant because of the elevation. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for rain and cool nighttime temperatures.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is only a short drive from Aspen Campground. Visitors can find an informative staff as well as books and gifts related to the local area. The nearest towns are Heber and Payson.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

Pets
Fires
Phone Service
RVs

$34 / night

Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

18 Reviews

74 Photos

534 Saves

Forest Lakes, Arizona

A beautiful, narrow, canyon-bound lake, accessible by foot trail only, Bear Canyon Lake is one of several in a series of fishing lakes built by Arizona Game and Fish Department. Despite being several miles down a dirt road and having few amenities, it draws many visitors. The partially developed campground which is set among the mixed conifer, oak and aspen, has only limited amenities. Bear Canyon Lake is a "Pack it in - Pack it out" area. There is NO GARBAGE SERVICE. Please be good stewards of the land and leave the area better than how you found it.

For purposes of fire restrictions, this campground is considered to be an 'undeveloped' campground. No fires will be permitted when fire restrictions are in effect for the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest.

At an elevation of 7,560, Bear Canyon Lake consists of 60 surface acres with a maximum depth of 50 feet. Because of its depth, this lake has no water quality problems. The Arizona Department of Game and Fish stocks it with catchable-sized rainbow trout about six times each year.

Arizona fishing regulations apply. Please refer to the current year fishing regulations brochure produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for further details on licensing requirements, daily bag limits, and other restrictions. Boat motors are restricted to electric motors only.

Pets
Fires
Phone Service
ADA Access

Ponderosa Campground (AZ) Tonto National Forest

Overview

Named for the towering pines under which it sits, Ponderosa Campground is tucked in the rolling forests of northern Arizona. As the fifth-largest forest in the country, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited urban forests in the United States, boasting about 5.8 million visitors annually. Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.

Recreation

Most visitors enjoy walking along the campground's nature trail, traveling into the town of Payson, taking advantage of the area's hiking trails and lakes or simply relaxing at the campsite. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 15 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating.

Facilities

Natural Features

The ponderosa pine trees make this a memorable campground. Larger ponderosas release a vanilla scent into the air and have a relatively open understory, making the area perfect for camping. Mixed into the understory are junipers, oaks and manzanita shrubs. The campground sits on the border of the Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," a 200-mile-long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 feet in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

Nearby Attractions

The nearby town of Payson, Arizona, offers restaurants, shopping and other conveniences.

Pets
Fires
Phone Service
RVs

$100 / night

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Recent Reviews In Payson

1028 Reviews of 284 Payson Campgrounds

No Reviews Found

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Payson, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Payson, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 284 campgrounds and RV parks near Payson, AZ and 115 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Payson, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Payson, AZ is Houston Mesa Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 37 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Payson, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 115 free dispersed camping spots near Payson, AZ.

What parks are near Payson, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 parks near Payson, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Coconino National Forest Recreation.

Places to Camp near Payson, AZ

Camping near Payson, Arizona

What to do

What campers like

What you should know

Tips for camping with families

Tips from RVers

Best Camping Sites Near Payson, AZ (284)

1.

Houston Mesa Campground

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

contact_info

Nearby Attractions

2.

Christopher Creek

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

contact_info

Nearby Attractions

3.

Payson Campground & RV Resort

4.

Aspen Campground at Woods Canyon

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

Nearby Attractions

contact_info

5.

Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

6.

Ponderosa Campground (AZ) Tonto National Forest

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

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Nearby Attractions

7.

Kehl Springs Campground

8.

Upper Tonto Creek Campground

9.

Mogollon Campground

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

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Nearby Attractions

10.

FS 609 - Dispersed Camping

Popular Camping Styles near Payson

Tents

RVs

Dispersed

Cabins

Pets Allowed

Yurts

Equestrian

Pet-friendly camping near Payson

Houston Mesa Campground

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

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Nearby Attractions

Christopher Creek

Overview

Recreation

Facilities

Natural Features

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