Dispersed camping in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Eagar, Arizona offers access to high-elevation mountain terrain with significant temperature fluctuations. Located at elevations between 8,000-9,500 feet, these camping areas experience afternoon thunderstorms during summer months with nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s even in July and August. Forest Service roads throughout the region provide numerous primitive camping options.
What to do
Fishing at multiple skill levels: Big Lake Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with varying levels of difficulty. "Amazing scenery, fishing and beautiful fall colors. Not crowded unless you go on a holiday weekend," notes John N Liz P. The lake supports multiple fish species with boat rentals available at the marina.
Hiking from campsites: Rainbow Campground offers immediate access to hiking trails directly from your site. "There are 3 loops that are FCFS. The rest of the sites are reservations," explains one camper. "There is always wildlife around, especially skunks, so watch your pets."
Boating options: Rent watercraft at several lakes in the area. According to Mike C., "We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather." Motorized and non-motorized options are available, with daily rental rates starting at $25 for kayaks.
Yurt camping near Eagar: Pinetop Lakeside Valhalla offers yurt accommodations as an alternative to traditional tent or RV camping, with 43 sites available. These year-round structures provide shelter from summer storms and cool nights common to the White Mountains region.
What campers like
Tent-only camping areas: Brook Char Campground features dedicated walk-in tent sites with water views. "The tent-only campground is small, but the sites are large and have multiple great clearings for tents," writes Taryn S. "Closest to the lake with water views, plus parking right outside your site for 2 vehicles."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds report frequent wildlife sightings. "We even had visits from deer, a very bold skunk, chipmunks, squirrels, and blue jays," notes Renee H. Another camper mentions, "We saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening."
Variety of yurt options: The Eagar area offers multiple yurt camping options with varying amenities. Some provide basic shelter while others include beds, electricity, and wood stoves. Yurt camping near Eagar accommodates those seeking a middle ground between tent camping and cabin rentals.
Temperature relief: Campers consistently mention the cool temperatures as a primary benefit. "It had been 28 years since we last camped at Rainbow. It is still a great place to escape the desert heat," shares Rod D. "It was 115 when we left the big city. Five hours later we found ourselves camped at 9100 feet, enjoying the cool temps in the mid 60's."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning. "It's always best practice to print a copy of your reservation. There is no cell service in this area," advises Rod D. Reservations for popular sites should be made at least 4 days in advance through Recreation.gov.
Seasonal access: The main camping season runs May through October. According to campers, some campgrounds open later than others, with El Caso being "the only campground open in the rec area during our April visit."
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection at most campgrounds. One camper at Lyman Lake State Park notes, "No internet service and poor phone reception (T-Mobile) which was a little issue for us as we are traveling cross country."
Bathroom facilities: Toilet facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "There are 2 toilet buildings. One is a vault (single) toilet with no sink and the other toilet building with flushing toilets and a sink, but no soap and no paper towels," reports Elisa at Grayling Campground.
Weather preparedness: Thunderstorms are common in summer months. "We had huge sleeping bags and a little propane heater, and still really enjoyed it," writes Rara B. about camping in cool temperatures.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious sites for group camping: Rainbow Campground accommodates larger family groups. "Great campsites within walk distance of the lake! Down fall is the campsites are big (enough room for all your camp friends) but you can only have two cars per site," advises Kasey J.
Lake proximity considerations: When camping with children, consider the walk to water. "This campsite is a quick drive or hike down to the lake," notes one camper. For families with smaller children, Brook Char Campground offers sites "within walk distance of the lake."
Wildlife education opportunities: Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res provides excellent wildlife viewing for children. "We saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," reports Mike C. These encounters create natural learning opportunities.
Camp security measures: At Hawley Lake, campers advise: "Bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows." This prevents animals from disturbing supplies or food stores while families sleep.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited but available. At Big Lake Recreation Area, Paul B. notes: "Several full-hookup spots, wildlife, friendly-helpful Hosts, $29.00 full hookup with senior Parks Card."
Road conditions for RV access: Some campgrounds have better RV access than others. According to Roger W., "El Casi CG in Rec Area: Past the lake with large campsites." Their report adds: "Large sites, well spaced" with dirt pad surfaces suitable for most rigs.
RV size considerations: Reservation Lake Apache Indian Res has limited access for larger rigs. One camper notes: "The dirt washboard road getting in (45 mins) was enough for me to not love this place." Consider vehicle capabilities when planning your route.
Dump station logistics: Not all campgrounds have onsite dump facilities. "There is a dump and water station a mile away. 5.00 charge to dump," reports Brad P. about facilities near Quemado Lake. Plan accordingly for extended stays.
