Established Camping
Brook Char Campground
Brook Char Campground, near Big Lake, Arizona, is a cozy spot nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, perfect for those who love tent camping. The campground offers a small number of sites, each with ample space for tents and easy access to the beautiful surroundings, including nearby trails and the lake.
Visitors often rave about the clean facilities, including restrooms with running water and a friendly camp host who’s always ready to help. Many campers appreciate the convenience of potable water available at several locations throughout the campground. As one happy camper noted, “The sites are large and have multiple great clearings for tents,” making it a comfortable choice for families and groups.
If you’re into fishing or boating, you’re in luck! The campground is just a short walk from the boat ramp and the shores of Big Lake, where you can cast a line or enjoy a leisurely paddle. Plus, the area is known for its stunning views and wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer and elk wandering through.
While some campers have mentioned that the directions to the campground could be clearer, the scenic drive is worth it. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, Brook Char Campground offers a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to connect with nature.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Overview
Brookchar Campground is tucked on the banks of Big Lake in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. The campground is a small, tent-only facility comprised entirely of walk-in sites. Of the lake's five campgrounds, Brookchar is nearest to the water. The stocked lake draws anglers, and boat rentals and a boat ramp make it easy for campers to enjoy the lake's blue waters.
Recreation
Big Lake is one of Arizona's top trout fishing lakes, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache trout being the most sought-after species. The recreation area is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, birding and wildlife viewing.
Natural Features
The campground sits in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest at an elevation of 9,100 feet. The area is scenic, forested with ponderosa pine, fir, spruce and aspen, interspersed with high elevation meadows. Summer temperatures are pleasant and cool, a nice respite from the heat of lower deserts. Visitors should come prepared for afternoon thunderstorms and cool nighttime temperatures.
Nearby Attractions
Several other lakes can be found in the surrounding area. Visitors can also 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.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.
Reservation Info
Make a reservation at Recreation.gov.
Location
Brook Char Campground is located in Arizona
Directions
From Pinetop, Arizona, take Highway 260 east 25 miles to Highway 273 south. Follow Highway 273 south 19 miles to Forest Road 8115 (Big Lake Entrance). Turn right and travel 2 miles.
Address
APACHE-SITGREAVES
AZ
Coordinates
33.8755556 N
109.4130556 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobilePoor
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets