The Prescott National Forest provides numerous camping opportunities near Dewey, Arizona, with elevations ranging from 5,000-7,000 feet creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year. Summer temperatures typically stay 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix, making this area popular for escaping the desert heat. Most dispersed camping spots require high-clearance vehicles due to rough access roads that can become impassable after rain.
What to do
Gold panning at Lynx Creek: Located just a short drive from Dewey, the Lynx Lake Campground area offers access to gold panning. "The campsite is only 5 minutes from the lynx creek gold panning area and the pueblos ruins, as well as only 15 minutes from everything in downtown Prescott," notes camper Sam B.
Mountain biking from camp: Several campgrounds connect directly to trail networks. "The Homestead trail running through it. You can hike or bike all day or kayak on Lynx Lake," reports a visitor about Hilltop Campground. Another camper adds, "We love biking and hiking right from camp" at White Spar Campground.
Kayaking at Watson Lake: The distinctive granite formations make this a unique paddling destination. "Absolutely stunning views. incredible calm lake to kayak on at sunset," explains Kristen at Watson Lake Park. This park is only open seasonally from April through September.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer heat. "The temperature in Phoenix, where I live, is supposed to be 116 degrees today. Only 85 at this campground (7800 ft elevation) and only a quick 2 hour drive," shares Neil H. about Mingus Mountain Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campers report wildlife sightings near their sites. "Heard coyotes howling at night and saw a few deer passing through the area," reports a camper at Lynx Lake. Another notes, "Spent the afternoon watching bluebirds in the trees outside my RV and woke up to cottontail rabbits hopping around" at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer better spacing than others. "Sites are spread out enough that there is plenty of privacy between the spots," notes Sam B. about Lynx Lake Campground. In contrast, a visitor to Mingus Mountain mentions, "The campsites are close together so that is not great but they are clean at least."
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary throughout the year: Check current regulations before your trip. "Here in May 2025. 3 first come first serve for $10 a night," notes Lety about White Spar Campground, which typically allows fires when restrictions aren't in place.
Cell service is inconsistent: Reception varies widely between locations. "No cell service if that matters to anyone," points out Robert M. about Potato Patch Campground. Another camper notes, "Cell service: ok" at White Spar, indicating spotty but functional coverage.
Highway noise affects some sites: Interstate proximity impacts certain campgrounds. A visitor to Verde Ranch RV Resort shares: "Interstate noise is a real presence. The staff were nice about letting us change to a site not so close to the interstate and refunded the difference in price for the less expensive site."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with playground access: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. "They've recently improved the playground for young ones and offer horseback riding as well," notes Audrey R. about Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
Choose loop-style campgrounds for biking: Certain areas provide safer environments for children. "It is nice that this loop as a round about at the end so no through traffic can come through to just drive by. Makes it nice with kids that like to ride bikes," shares Melissa S. about White Spar Campground.
Consider water play options: Natural water features provide entertainment for children. One camper notes, "One of the hikes, per suggestion of the ranger, leads down to a little lagoon of water stopped between two dams. The kids were able to splash and play there" at Dead Horse Ranch.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability varies: Some national forest campgrounds offer limited electric options. "It's unusual to find electric hookups at USFS campgrounds in Arizona. The spaces are close together where there is power," explains Mary P. about Potato Patch Campground.
Select sites carefully at RV parks: Not all sites at RV resorts are created equal. A visitor to Point of Rocks RV Campground reports, "Each spot is clean and private. There are trees between the spots. Watson lake is 10 min hike."
Be aware of mountain roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access. "The road up to Potato Patch has many 6% grades and tight mountain curves," warns Mary P. This is important for larger rigs to consider when planning routes.
