Tent camping in the Alpine, Arizona region offers opportunities within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest at elevations ranging from 7,600 to 9,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer highs typically in the 70s-80s°F and nighttime lows that can drop below 40°F even in summer months. Most dispersed camping areas near Alpine remain snowed in until late April, with forest roads often impassable before then.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cutthroat Campground provides excellent access to Big Lake. "This campsite is perfect for tent campers looking to be close to the lake. Sites are more private that brookchar (next site over) but only have vaulted toilets, no running water in bathrooms," notes Candy P.
Lake exploration: Reservation Lake offers both camping and fishing in a higher elevation setting. According to Ryan V., "Awesome summer retreat for cooler weather. Be aware that monsoon season is late June-August and that means rain almost every day. Campground is quiet and clean. Lake has some great fishing and excellent scenery."
Rock climbing: The Blue River corridor near Upper Blue Campground features several rock formations suitable for amateur climbing. Daren W. reports, "Small and spread out, only 3 sites. Minute walk to blue river. Lots of fun to play and climb/hike."
What campers like
Secluded sites: Most tent camping areas near Alpine feature small, spread-out sites that provide privacy. Jon U. from Upper Blue Campground shares, "I camped here on the 4th of July. Although I planned to go somewhere higher, I couldn't pass on this site when I saw it. 4x4 is probably required."
Lake access: Many campers appreciate the direct water access at Cutthroat. Dave R. advises, "We stayed in Spot 5. You have to hike your stuff up a small hill from the car. Views are spectacular and great shade. All of the lower spots 3-8 good lake access. Spot 19 is really the best."
Fishing quality: Alpine tent campers frequently mention the quality of fishing in both lakes and streams throughout the region. Ryan V. confirms Reservation Lake "has some great fishing and excellent scenery."
What you should know
Site verification: Several listed camping areas may not actually permit overnight stays. Shane W. warns about Elderberry Spring: "This is not a campground, but a spot to pull off the road when logging trucks are coming up."
Road conditions: Access to many tent camping areas requires high-clearance vehicles. Jon U. notes about Upper Blue Campground: "4x4 is probably required."
Monsoon season: Late June through August brings frequent afternoon thunderstorms to the Alpine area. Ryan V. advises: "Be aware that monsoon season is late June-August and that means rain almost every day."
Water features: Several Alpine area lakes are smaller than visitors expect. Shane W. notes about Pratt Lake Dispersed: "Nice quiet area. Small lake. Didn't fish, so unsure. No amenities at all, which is fine. Road is a little rough going in, in places."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Families should consider Cutthroat Campground's site selection carefully. Dave R. advises: "Spot 19 is really the best. Great views, shade, close to bathroom (pit toilets) and car accessible."
Pack portable water: Most tent sites near Alpine lack water sources. Candy P. notes: "Sites are more private that brookchar (next site over) but only have vaulted toilets, no running water in bathrooms."
Plan for temperature changes: Alpine region camping requires preparation for cold nights even in summer. Temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs, necessitating warm sleeping bags and layered clothing for children.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent camping areas near Alpine cannot accommodate larger RVs. Roads to Upper Blue Campground and similar sites typically require high-clearance vehicles according to multiple reviewers.
Dispersed options: Pratt Lake offers more accessible dispersed camping suitable for smaller RVs. Shane W. notes: "Road is a little rough going in, in places," but confirms RV camping is possible.
Dump station access: No tent camping areas near Alpine offer dump stations or hookups. RV campers should arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks, planning for self-contained operation throughout their stay.
