RV sites near Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest range from 6,500 to 8,500 feet elevation in Arizona's White Mountains. The region experiences temperature fluctuations with summer highs in the 80s dropping to 40s at night. Snow often closes certain campgrounds from November through April, and monsoon storms frequently occur July through September.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: In Alpine, access forest trails directly from Coronado Trail RV Park 55+ where wildlife viewing is exceptional. "The elk herds out number the cattle—a morning and evening spectacle!" reports one visitor, noting how the adult-oriented park serves as "a great base camp to visit the area."
Fishing access: Lakes and streams near Springerville provide trout fishing opportunities within short drives. A camper at Springerville RV Park mentioned, "Close to town but had reservations that were made on the phone and when we arrived we were able to get an upgrade to full hookups."
Winter sports: Several RV sites remain open year-round for winter activities. According to a reviewer, Springerville RV Park has "water spickets in an under ground, green lawn sprinklers control box with insulation blankets. Because this place does get snow in the winters."
What campers like
Pine forest setting: Tall ponderosa pines provide natural ambiance at many parks. At Ponderosa RV Resort in Lakeside, campers appreciate the natural environment: "We were there to RELAX and enjoy the tall pines and cool weather, which we do not get in Las Vegas, NV."
Wildlife viewing: Wild horses sometimes visit campgrounds in the region. At Hon-Dah RV Park, a camper reported: "Wild horses venture through the camp in the evening! Spots are pretty close together, it is very full and mostly full timer/long term campers."
Entertainment access: Casino proximity offers additional activities for RVers. A Hon-Dah visitor noted, "Casino and its restaurants next door. The walk to the Casino is, at most, 1 mile (furthest spot)."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Summer temperatures are significantly cooler than Phoenix but reservations become essential. "During summer months they are making improvements with each year," one camper at Springerville noted.
Cell service variations: Internet connectivity fluctuates throughout the forest. One camper at Coronado Trail RV Park reported, "The WiFi was good as was cell phone reception (we lost both for 2-1/2 days due to a fiber optic cable break near Show Low/Springerville)."
Road conditions: Mountain roads require careful driving, especially after storms. A Springerville RV Park guest commented, "The whole campground is graded level with fresh gravel each spring. Which makes it nice to park and to get level."
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: While some parks cater primarily to adults, family-friendly options exist. One camper at Springerville RV Park noted, "A playground would have gotten the 5 star," indicating the park is suitable for families but lacks playground equipment.
Community events: Local towns host seasonal festivals and gatherings. "The park is great and they have a lot of activities in the clubhouse," shared a camper at Waltner's RV Resort.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds implement specific security measures. As a Springerville visitor mentioned, "There are not Picnic tables in every site. But after talking to Don the camp host you could get a spot with one at checkin."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many parks offer level sites with concrete pads. According to a visitor at Snowflake Arizona RV Park, "Spacious and good hookups. I love that I didn't have to meet with anyone. Just booked online, and checked in and out on my own."
Slide-out space: Site widths vary between parks. At Ponderosa RV Resort, a visitor explained, "We spent 5-nights here. Ponderosa is a reasonably quiet, adult oriented, RV park in the pines of Pinetop. I wouldn't call Ponderosa a RV Resort as it's more a trailer park with the vast majority of occupants being long term tenants."
Extended stays: Some RV sites near Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest accommodate seasonal residents. At Hon-Dah RV Park, a camper observed, "Able to secure large plot for full 4 months. Many return to the same reserved spot year after year."
Self-check-in options: Several parks offer convenient online booking systems. A camper at Springerville RV Park shared, "Great temporary RV sites in a great park in a great Town," highlighting the streamlined reservation process that works well for short stays.
