Dispersed and free, Blue Ridge Reservoir sits within Coconino National Forest near Happy Jack, Arizona, drawing paddlers, anglers, and campers willing to navigate a rough dirt road to reach the water. The road down from Highway 87 is notably rocky and can rattle vehicles hard, so soft-top Jeeps and low-clearance cars should approach with caution. That said, one reviewer noted the road was "in great shape and easy for our travel trailer to make it in," suggesting conditions vary by season and recent maintenance.
Water access is the main draw. The reservoir supports kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards, and campers have spotted bald eagles and elk in the area. Fishing gets consistent mentions across reviews, and there are rock formations along the water's edge where swimming is possible. Cell service drops out entirely once you reach the water, so plan accordingly. The Arizona Trail also passes through this area, which opens up additional hiking options that many visitors overlook.
Sites near the water fill quickly, especially on holiday weekends, so arriving early matters. Dispersed spots along FR 751B include fire rings and reasonable privacy, and several campers report finding workable sites even on busy weekends by exploring further along the forest roads. The parking area near the boat launch is small, and anyone dropping a watercraft will need to move their vehicle up a steep dirt incline to park near the restrooms. No facilities exist at the dispersed sites themselves, so pack out everything you bring in. Rock Crossing Campground is roughly a mile away for campers who prefer a developed site.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBlue Ridge Reservoir is located in Arizona near Happy Jack
Coordinates
34.55466152 N
111.20721228 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Blue Ridge Reservoir needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 12 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 1 hr 26 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 2 hrs 1 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 39 min from Tucson, AZ























