This free Forest Service campground sits next to Scott Reservoir within Sitgreaves National Forest, though it has permanently closed to camping. Rough access roads lead to the lakeside location where campers once found metal fire pits with grill grates and picnic tables at each site. The reservoir's water levels fluctuate significantly, creating rocky shoreline conditions that can make gear transport challenging.
Sites accommodated both tents and RVs up to 36 feet, with primitive restroom facilities located near the boat launch area. Trash service was limited to a single dumpster that often overflowed during busy periods. For current camping destinations outside Sitgreaves National Forest, check nearby alternatives like Timber Mesa Trailhead located a short distance away.
Description
AS OF 2023, THIS IS DAY USE ONLY CAMPGROUND PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Situated near Scott Reservoir, this campground has only modest developments but is very popular throughout the summer.
Undeveloped campground with a 14-day stay limit so you can fish your limit without breaking camp. The campground has 12 designated campsites with tables and fire rings. There is a 14-day stay limit during any 30-day period.
Reservation Info
From July to September summer thunderstorms are frequent and abrupt. Lightning is always a danger at this time. Take precautions and get off of the lake immediately. Camping is allowed in designated sites only and is prohibited along the lakeshore. There is an Accessible boat ramp, vaulted toilets, garbage dumpster, and parking available.
Map & DirectionsScott Reservoir Campground is located in Arizona near Pinetop-Lakeside
Public CampgroundDirections
Directions from Lakeside: From Lakeside District Office drive east .1 mile on State Highway 260. Turn left on Porter Mountain Road, ( Forest Road 45). Stay on Porter Mountain Road for 1.5 miles. Look for the sign on the right, Scott Reservoir, and follow the road to the facilities. Be careful as the access road is very rough in some spots.
Coordinates
34.19099591 N
109.959596 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 9/12/26
Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/12/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 9/12/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 9/12/26
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 9/12/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 9/12/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- WiFi
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Scott Reservoir Campground - PERMANENTLY CLOSED needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 7 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 3 hrs 8 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 8 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 3 hrs 26 min from Tucson, AZ
