Dispersed camping opportunities near Cibecue, Arizona allow campers to experience the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest at elevations between 6,000-7,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix, with daytime highs averaging 75-85°F. Forest roads accessing these areas can become rutted after rainfall, particularly during monsoon season from July through September.
What to do
Fishing at local lakes: Black Canyon Lake offers fishing opportunities despite lower stocking levels in recent years. "Unlike some of the more popular lakes in the area, Black Canyon Lake offers more serenity. Don't expect a great fishing experience, however, as the lake is rarely stocked any more," notes Audrey R. about FR738 Dispersed Camping.
Hiking trail access: Several established campgrounds provide direct trail access. "There are 2 trails that start from within Canyon Point campground. One goes to the edge of the Mogollon Rim and the other is the Sinkhole Trail," explains Krista Z. about Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Cibecue provide ample opportunities to observe deer, elk and wild horses. "We saw quite a few wild horses in the vicinity," reports Zachary C. about his stay at Black Canyon Rim Campground. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Proximity to water features: Several campgrounds offer direct creek or lake access. "The creek is stocked with trout and makes for calming background noise," mentions Shaun S. about Christopher Creek, which features sites along the water.
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in this region offer generously sized sites. "Sites were well spaced. Very quiet campground," reports Heather about Black Canyon Rim Campground. The spacing between sites allows for privacy even during busier periods.
High elevation cooling: The elevation provides natural temperature regulation during summer months. "We go several times a year and never camp in the same place twice! You can camp in groups or in smaller clusters," explains Nacole H. about Rim Road, a popular dispersed camping area where many Phoenix residents escape summer heat.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Forest fire restrictions are common during dry periods. "Unfortunately, we were in Stage II fire restrictions so we were not able to use it but it looked to be very well maintained and in working condition," notes Jordan H. about Christopher Creek Campground. Check current fire restrictions with the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest before your trip.
Road conditions: Some forest roads require higher clearance vehicles. "The road in isn't paved but anything with more clearance than a Honda Civic will make it just fine," advises Karl K. about Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az).
Water sources: Availability of potable water varies significantly between established and dispersed sites. "There is one water source and bathroom near the entrance so plan on a long walk or drive to use facilities if you are on the far end of the campground," warns Curtis about Black Canyon Rim Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking options: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly hiking trails. "It was very easy and only about ¾ of a mile each way with great tree coverage," describes Krista Z. about the Sinkhole Trail at Canyon Point Campground.
Creek exploration: Children often enjoy wading and exploring creek environments. "The best part is catching crawdads with our home made fishing poles (which is a step up from when i was a kid and would catch them with cups)," shares Jennifer A. about Christopher Creek Campground.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant even in summer. "We road out a crazy storm, and the canyons made the thunder sound like a really mad Greek God," notes Daniel L. from Black Canyon Rim Campground. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "My site in particular was pretty sloped but the rest of them looked pretty level," mentions Karl K. about Black Canyon Rim Campground. Research site limitations before arrival.
Dump station access: Some campgrounds provide dump stations while others do not. "Clean, very widely dispersed camp sites especially in loop B (no electricity hookup); loop A sites a little closer but still great and most sites have electricity. Double lane dump station but no full hookups," explains Larry K. about Canyon Point Campground.
Seasonal access: Higher elevation areas often close seasonally. "Open all year and is plowed when it snows," notes Eric N. about Show Low Lake Campground, making it one of the few pet-friendly year-round options near Cibecue.
Traveler
