Dispersed camping opportunities near Cibecue, Arizona provide access to high-elevation forest environments within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. The area sits at approximately 5,000-7,000 feet elevation, creating a significant temperature difference from Phoenix during summer months. Camping permits at some locations near Cibecue include restrictions on alcohol consumption and generator usage to maintain the natural environment.
What to do
Fishing at Willow Springs Lake: The lake offers excellent trout fishing throughout the summer season. "The trout fishing here is top notch. The lake is stocked during the summer almost everyweek but the hold overs in the spring can get pretty huge!" notes a visitor to Aspen Campground.
Explore cliff dwellings: The Tonto National Monument near Roosevelt Lake showcases Puebloan cliff dwellings within driving distance of camping areas. "Across the road, lies the Tonto National Monument which shows off some terrific examples of early Puebloan cliff dwellings," reports a camper at Windy Hill Campground.
Visit Cibecue Falls: With proper permits, campers can hike to this scenic waterfall. "With your permit to hike Cibecue Falls it gives you one night of camping at the camp ground... It does make for a relaxing night after a short hike to the falls," shares a reviewer from Second Campground.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides escape from valley heat. "Always a great place to stay in the summer. Usually about 25 degrees cooler in then Phoenix," explains a visitor to Aspen Campground about the temperature difference.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to see local fauna. "Elk wander through the campgrounds in early mornings and evenings," reports a camper at Sinkhole Campground, noting the accessible wildlife.
Lakeside activities: Many campgrounds offer direct or nearby access to lakes. "We enjoyed a splendid paddle out on the water near sundown, after many power boats were already back up on their trailers," shares a visitor to Windy Hill Campground, highlighting water recreation possibilities.
What you should know
Road conditions: Some access roads require caution and appropriate vehicles. "The road back is a dirt road with a cliff on one side. Saw cars back there so not a bad road," notes a camper at Second Campground regarding access to Cibecue Falls.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies greatly throughout the area. "Verizon service was great the entire time," reports a visitor to Timber Camp Recreation Site, contrasting with many other locations that have little to no service.
Varied restroom facilities: Bathrooms range from flush toilets to vault systems. "The bathrooms were cleaner than most restaurants," states a camper at Knoll Lake Campground, though facilities vary by location and maintenance schedules.
Tips for camping with families
Check space requirements: Some sites accommodate large groups better than others. "We reserved this spot for a large family gathering and it served our needs perfectly... It is a very large space and each family can spread out as much as they want," shares a visitor to Timber Camp Recreation Site.
Consider weather patterns: Afternoon storms are common during summer months. "There is rain almost every day (varying between light afternoon showers and heavy storms)," notes a camper at Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res.
Protect from wildlife: Take precautions with food storage. "Bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows," advises a Hawley Lake visitor, highlighting unique considerations for the area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary greatly in size and accessibility. "Sites are well spaced out, friendly hosts, close enough to the lake and the dump out ($7), quiet. The big plus for us was the spacing between the sites and the quiet nature of the camp," reports a visitor to Aspen Campground.
Limited hookups: Most forest service campgrounds lack full RV amenities. "Only 26 units but a good spot for even large trailers. No utility hookups," explains a camper at Sinkhole Campground, noting the trade-offs for camping in more natural settings.
Generator considerations: Noise can impact the camping experience. "This place takes the prize for the most generator impacted site that we've ever stayed in our lifetimes," reports a Windy Hill Campground visitor, suggesting those seeking quiet might choose alternative locations.
