Best Camping near Forest Lakes, AZ

Searching for the best camping near Forest Lakes, AZ? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Forest Lakes, AZ (192)

    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Campground

    1. Aspen Campground

    26 Reviews
    74 Photos
    369 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    Overview

    Aspen Campground is a scenic hideaway for anglers, boaters, families and photographers, located in north central Arizona near Heber and Payson. It sits in a dense pine and aspen area forest near the shore of Woods Canyon Lake at an elevation of 7,000 ft. With spacious campsites, calm and scenic lake waters, a marina, boat ramp and many amenities, Aspen is one of the most popular camping spots in Arizona.

    Recreation

    Popular activities include trout fishing, hiking, boating and photography. Woods Canyon Lake is one of seven lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, and one of the most visited. Two other lakes are within a short drive. Woods Canyon Lake only allows electric boat motors. An easy hiking trail meanders around the lake, and the campground's paved roads make for great bike rides. Families might also enjoy attending educational programs given by Forest Service rangers on the weekends.

    Natural Features

    The large and rambling campground offers several camping experiences and environments from marshy meadows to a rocky forest. Wildlife viewing includes birds, squirrels, deer and elk. Deer, skunks and bears are common campground visitors. Summer temperatures can be very pleasant because of the elevation. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for rain and cool nighttime temperatures.

    Nearby Attractions

    Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, is only a short drive from Aspen Campground. Visitors can find an informative staff as well as books and gifts related to the local area. The nearest towns are Heber and Payson.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from Christopher Creek

    2. Christopher Creek

    20 Reviews
    64 Photos
    301 Saves
    Kohls Ranch, Arizona

    Overview

    With an elevation over a mile-high(5640 ft), Christopher Creek Campground's crisp, fresh air and vibrant views are a joy to behold. The facility is tucked along the banks of the spring-fed Christopher Creek, which passes just below the Mogollon Rim. The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long cliff in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 ft in elevation. The unique landscape was created by extreme erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical dividing line between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Christopher Creek is located in the desert portion, but is balanced by the cool waters of the creek and forested surroundings.

    Recreation

    After a day of horseback riding or mountain biking, take a dip in one of the facility's three swimming holes to cool off from the summer sun. Each spring, the creek is stocked with rainbow trout, allowing anglers the opportunity to cast their hearts out for rainbows as well as brook and brown trout.

    Natural Features

    Christopher Creek provides creek side dwelling in Tonto National Forest, at the base of the Mogollon Rim. Sites are surrounded by ponderosa pines, junipers, oaks and manzanita evergreen shrubs.

    Nearby Attractions

    The small town of Christopher Creek is just a short drive away and offers a few restaurant options for those who tire of cooking at the campground.. A series of lakes called the Rim Country Lakes are about a 10 minute drive east. Woods Canyon Lake is one of the most popular recreational lakes in the state and offers options for boating as well as a nature trail that loops around the lake's perimeter.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Houston Mesa Campground

    3. Houston Mesa Campground

    37 Reviews
    123 Photos
    313 Saves
    Payson, Arizona

    Overview

    Houston Mesa Campground is located in the forested northern section of Tonto National Forest, just one mile north of Payson, Arizona and less than two hours from Phoenix. With family, equestrian and tent-only campsites, this campground can accommodate a range of visitors and offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors, including several miles of hiking and horseback riding trails nearby. As the fifth largest forest in the United States, the Tonto National Forest is one of the most-visited "urban" forests in the United States (approximately 5.8 million visitors annually). Its boundaries are Phoenix to the south, the Mogollon Rim to the north and the San Carlos and Fort Apache Indian reservations to the east.

    Recreation

    Many visitors come to Houston Mesa to horseback ride, hike, camp and picnic. Houston Mesa Loop Trail is a 9-mile round trip through a pinyon and juniper woodland and can be accessed from the horse camping area. The Houston Mesa Interpretive Trail is a 0.5-mile self-guided trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground is located at an elevation of 5,200 ft. in a mixed forest and shrub area, with spacious campsites offering both sun and shade. Winters are pleasant and cool with cold nighttime temperatures, while summers are warm and sunny, providing a nice getaway from the hotter deserts around Phoenix. Hawks, eagles, javelina, deer, fox, skunk and coyote live in the area.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 474-7900.

    Nearby Attractions

    Campers who make the quick trip to the town of Payson, one mile south, will find restaurants, shopping and other conveniences. Scenic driving and outdoor recreation abound in the surrounding Tonto National Forest, which embraces almost 3 million acres of rugged and spectacularly beautiful country, ranging from saguaro cactus-studded desert to pine-forested mountains beneath the Mogollon Rim.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $20 - $22 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground

    4. Fr 171 Campground

    15 Reviews
    93 Photos
    289 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    Dispersed Camping Area

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground

    5. Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground

    15 Reviews
    14 Photos
    28 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    Overview

    Located in the scenic Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest in north central Arizona near the town of Heber, Canyon Point has a range of individual and group campsites to suit many visitors. The campground sits in a heavily wooded pine and aspen area 5 miles from the popular Willow Springs Lake. Campers enjoy trout fishing (both lake and stream), hiking, boating and photography.

    Recreation

    Hikers enjoy staying at Canyon Point because of its access to trails to the Sinkhole and the edge of the Mogollon Rim, which offers a spectacular view. Its proximity to Willow Springs Lake also draws boaters and anglers. Families who stay on the weekends often attend educational programs given by Forest Service rangers at the facility's amphitheater.

    Facilities

    Hikers enjoy staying at Canyon Point because of its access to trails to the Sinkhole and the edge of the Mogollon Rim, which offers a spectacular view. Its proximity to Willow Springs Lake also draws boaters and anglers. Families who stay on the weekends often attend educational programs given by Forest Service rangers at the facility's amphitheater.

    Natural Features

    Canyon Point lies in a forested area above the Mogollon Rim at an elevation of 7,500 ft. The Mogollon Rim, pronounced by locals as "muggy-own," is a 200-mile long escarpment in northern Arizona that ranges between 5,000 and 7,000 ft in elevation. The unique landscape was created by the uplift of the Colorado Plateau followed by erosion and faulting that has sculpted spectacular canyons and buttes. The rim serves as the geographical divide between the cool high country above and the hot, dry desert below. Summer daytime temperatures are generally 20 - 40 degrees cooler than the greater Phoenix Area. However, the rainy season often brings afternoon thunderstorms from late June through August. Visitors should come prepared for possible rain and cool nighttime temperatures.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

    Nearby Attractions

    Forest Lakes, Arizona is located approximately 2 miles east of the campground. Visitors can find food, fuel, telephones, and groceries. The nearest full service community is Overgaard, 22 miles east on Highway 260.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $215 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    6. Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    18 Reviews
    74 Photos
    579 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    A beautiful, narrow, canyon-bound lake, accessible by foot trail only, Bear Canyon Lake is one of several in a series of fishing lakes built by Arizona Game and Fish Department. Despite being several miles down a dirt road and having few amenities, it draws many visitors. The partially developed campground which is set among the mixed conifer, oak and aspen, has only limited amenities. Bear Canyon Lake is a "Pack it in - Pack it out" area. There is NO GARBAGE SERVICE. Please be good stewards of the land and leave the area better than how you found it.

    For purposes of fire restrictions, this campground is considered to be an 'undeveloped' campground. No fires will be permitted when fire restrictions are in effect for the Apache-Sitgreaves Forest.

    At an elevation of 7,560, Bear Canyon Lake consists of 60 surface acres with a maximum depth of 50 feet. Because of its depth, this lake has no water quality problems. The Arizona Department of Game and Fish stocks it with catchable-sized rainbow trout about six times each year.

    Arizona fishing regulations apply. Please refer to the current year fishing regulations brochure produced by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for further details on licensing requirements, daily bag limits, and other restrictions. Boat motors are restricted to electric motors only.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Knoll Lake Campground

    7. Knoll Lake Campground

    15 Reviews
    25 Photos
    458 Saves
    Kohls Ranch, Arizona

    This secluded forest camp offers easy access to two features of high visitor interest.The first is Knoll Lake, a medium-sized body of water tucked away in a picturesque setting. People come here to fish for trout and tour the lake in small boats.The second feature of interest near this campground is the spectacular Mogollon Rim, a two thousand foot escarpment that marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. This picturesque plunge from cool highlands to low deserts extends across most of Arizona. The area around Knoll Lake, however, is the home of some of the Rim's most magnificent views. It provides a scenic setting for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or just sitting back and enjoying the panorama.Group Campouts and Events: This campground does not have facilities for large groups or group activities. If one campsite cannot accommodate your group (eight at a single site, 16 at a double site), please call the Mogollon Rim Ranger District at 928-477-2255 to plan your group camp-out at Elks, Moqui, or Long Valley group campgrounds.__Hover mouse over photo to display slideshow controls. View album on Flicker

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Tent Cabin
    • Glamping
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Campground

    8. Mogollon Campground

    11 Reviews
    28 Photos
    176 Saves
    Kohls Ranch, Arizona

    Overview

    Mogollon Campground, although not directly in the Woods Canyon Recreation area, sits just outside and is only two miles from the lake. For those who like spectacular views, this campground is one of the closest to the Mogollon Rim.

    Recreation

    Fishing and boating are available at Woods Canyon Lake which is approximately three miles from the campground on Road 105.

    Natural Features

    Mogollon Campground is surrounded by ponderosa pines. The road to Mogollon is a sandy road off of Road 300. The campground itself is also sandy and gravel.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

    Nearby Attractions

    Some groceries are available at the Marina Store at Woods Canyon Lake which is approximately three miles from the campground. The store also offers boat and kayak rentals. Woods Canyon Lake is a great lake for fishing.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $18 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)

    9. Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)

    11 Reviews
    54 Photos
    70 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    Overview

    Black Canyon Rim Campground has 20 sites of varying sizes. All sites can accommodate tents and pop-up campers. Some sites are suitable for pull trailers, 5th-wheel trailers, and motorhomes up to 40 feet.

    Recreation

    Fishing and boating (electric motors) are available on Black Canyon Lake, approximately 2.5 miles northeast of the campground. The historic grave site of Stott, Scott, and Wilson, three young men lynched during the Pleasant Valley War is located within walking distance. This campground is a favorite stopping place for those traveling on the General Crook National Recreation Trail.

    Natural Features

    Black Canyon Rim Campground is sheltered among towering ponderosa pines and located in an area that is relatively flat and sandy. A herd of wild horses is often seen running through the area and stopping at Black Canyon Lake for water.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gas, phone, and groceries are available 8 miles west at Forest Lakes or 13 miles east at Heber.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Sinkhole Campground

    10. Sinkhole Campground

    9 Reviews
    32 Photos
    178 Saves
    Forest Lakes, Arizona

    Overview

    Located in the ponderosa pine forest, this campground is within walking distance of Willow Springs Lake which provides boating and fishing opportunities. Hiking and mountain biking opportunities are nearby in the non-motorized Wildlife Area. The General Crook National Recreation Trail is also within a mile of the campground. Be prepared for rain, often heavy, through July and August. Expect cool to cold nighttime temperatures.

    Recreation

    Fishing and boating are available at nearby Willow Springs Lake which is approximately one mile from the campground.

    Natural Features

    Sinkhole Campground is surrounded by ponderosa pines. The entrance, roads and back-in section is asphalt.

    Nearby Attractions

    Woods Canyon Lakes is located approximately 10 miles west off of Road 300 and Road 105. The store at the lake has boat and kayak rentals. Gas, phone and groceries are available approximately four miles east at Forest Lakes.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 535-0181.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 192 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Forest Lakes

Recent Reviews in Forest Lakes

685 Reviews of 192 Forest Lakes Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground
    Nov. 25, 2024

    Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    Beauty abounds

    The entire Mallard loop has generous paved sites. There is a picnic table and nice fire pit. Plenty of paved space to set up. Pines surround each site and provide ample shade. Each site has easy access to the lake. The bathrooms have showers and were spotless.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Homolovi State Park Campground
    Nov. 8, 2024

    Homolovi State Park Campground

    Quiet and beautiful

    Check in was quick and easy. Camp sites are kept well and clean. Beautiful view on the land/mountains. Visitor center is small but nice w/ friendly staff. A couple hiking trails to some very sacred/historic spots. Watch out for rattle snakes.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Timber Mesa Trailhead
    Oct. 18, 2024

    Timber Mesa Trailhead

    Haunted with a kill site

    Great fire pit and some flat spots for a tent. The highway got quieter in the middle of the night for a little while. We stayed right next to some ruins and all three of us had wild dreams about ghosts, ghost horses, and animals. The next morning we found we were only a few steps away from a mountain lion kill site! WOW! So many kinds of animals. Elk. Coyote. Cow. Sheep. You name it! It was an exciting way to spend the evening. Enjoy!

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
    Oct. 11, 2024

    Black Canyon Rim Campground (apache-sitgreaves National Forest, Az)

    Awesome site, but…….

    Beautiful, huge site! Sites were well spaced. Very quiet campground. The camp host didn’t bother us at all. She was around, just not intrusive. Now the bad. I have been camping in primitive sites for the last 20 years or more. In all those years I have never come across pit toilets as bad as the ones at this campground. We arrived Sunday night. They were really bad, but it was the end of a weekend so I gave grace. On Tuesday the toilets were “cleaned “ out. It didn’t help because no one put chemicals in the pit. The smell of raw sewage was always present in our site.

  • Bradley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed

    Views, solitude, and wind!

    We arrived around noon on Friday, and within an hour or two there were two others who arrived--but thankfully turned around to find another spot.  The views were extraordinary as we parked the Land Cruiser with the Roofnest in the ideal spot to not just soak up the afternoon and evening views, but to be blessed by a great sunrise from inside the tent.

    The stars... I mean, wow!  The starry sky at night was one of the best we've see anywhere, just stunning.

    Felt very safe in the area for our 3 year old boy to explore with us, so if you expect any sheer cliffs or dangerous drop-offs, they aren't really there.  There were gradual declines from the top, and they aren't immediately near where you'd park.

    We will be back--this was a real gem... but expect wind throughout the night being this exposed!

  • DiAnn N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Fr 171 Campground
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Fr 171 Campground

    FR171 is one of my favorite spots.

    Has 48 spots to camp. Some are great for rv, and some are very rocky. The road along sites are rv friendly. We spent 14 days in July and 20 days total. August went back for 12 days. September, it rained once every day.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Clints Well Campground
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Clints Well Campground

    Nice Forest service campground. Free

    A nice campground has about seven spots, sign said it was a fee area. However, the camp host said it was free.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Long Lake Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 7, 2024

    Long Lake Dispersed Camping

    Worth the challenging drive If you have AWD or 4WD

    Pristine and usually unoccupied lake off the beaten path. 17 miles of dirt road from Highway to the lake and the last 7 are truly a challenge for anything other than a slightly lifted vehicle. Four camping areas near or with access to Lake with two of them having boat ramps. Skip the first turn off to the right as that is the very narrow part of the lake and rather ugly. The second turn off has two to four campsites with vault toilets and access to the lake through a boat ramp which allows camping and small trailer access lakeside. The churn out to the right is, Really rough and has very little camping or RV access. One of the pictures shows how rough the road is. I took the fourth turn off which is 747 and has one to two camping sites with a fire pit and good RV access along with a boat ramp. Note that fires are allowed in the fire pits because this is above 6, 000 feet but there is no water or trash. Pack it in, pack it out.

  • Nick V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Milk Ranch Point Road
    Aug. 23, 2024

    Milk Ranch Point Road

    Easy spot to access

    Went down here mid August and it was a beautiful view. Thick tree coverage which hid us from the winds that day / night and the rim was a 200 foot walk away. Able to get there in my Chevy Trax which is front wheel drive only, without any problems. There are there are plenty of spot to pull off into on that forest road. If you don’t get this exact spot just keep driving the road and you’ll find something in no time. A lot of dead trees laying around for firewood, but did need axe and hacksaw to cut size them down. Area had a lot of pine needles on the ground.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Rim Road
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Rim Road

    Great time here

    We showed late on Friday eve and were still able to get a great spot for tent camping. Pretty quiet and close to town.

  • Daniel R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350
    Aug. 15, 2024

    Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350

    Mogollon Rim Road, FR9350, Arizona

    34.335842 - 110.973221

    Numbered free camp sites. First come first served. Beautiful cool high country with many overlooks over the rim. There is a lake near by for fishing, has a small store and you can rent kyaks and small boats.

    Camp sites are not near each other, but within sight. Campfires allowed when conditions permit. We stayed 3 nights while on our way home with our new R-Pod 192 Hood River Edition. We will definately go back again. The guy who came buy later to check us in was super nice and very informative.

  • Les G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Arizona High Country Campground
    Aug. 1, 2024

    Arizona High Country Campground

    Very nice location

    We had a great site near the rear of the park with many shade trees and plenty of room. In general the sites are quite close together, but the folks were friendly and very helpful.....

  • D
    Camper-submitted photo from Take It Easy RV Park
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Take It Easy RV Park

    Take it Easy

    Nice campground Close to Walmart, Flying J, Standing on a Corner Close to town and restaurant’s Within 2 mile diameter

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from McHood Park Campground
    Jul. 27, 2024

    McHood Park Campground

    Enjoyable

    The City try’s is best to keep it clean and so do the camps host as we saw both city works and the host walking around picking up trash is a nice little weekend trip for dry camping. The camp host are from Winslow so they are very knowledgeable about the area and very nice and willing to help no matter the circumstances. They do have bathrooms but no showers as they are out of order. Camp sites are right by the water for good fishing or you can park up above if you do not like bugs as they are worse down by the water than on the upper campsites.

  • Patrick C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from forest road 181
    Jul. 22, 2024

    forest road 181

    Forest road 181

    Nice place to cool of and set up camp. The only reason it's not getting 5 stars is there isn't great views in this area.

  • Patrick C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed

    Best views and weather

    It rained every afternoon we were there for 3 days, but loved every bit of it. There is a camp host here even though it's free. His name is Steve and is super nice and helpful . He told us some spots in the are alto check out. Will stay here again

  • David Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Forest Road 195 Campground
    Jul. 17, 2024

    Forest Road 195 Campground

    Wilderness Camping

    pretty secluded and pretty remote. sites are of different sizes, anyone can camp, big trailers etc. very quiet except for nature and birds. no Verizon for the most part, nice place to explore.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Homolovi State Park Campground
    Jul. 14, 2024

    Homolovi State Park Campground

    Good campground

    We stayed one night at Homolovi and it was nice. Only one bathroom facility. Very cool ruins but we didn’t get to explore too much. It gets hot in summer-be prepared.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Rim Road Dispersed Site
    Jul. 4, 2024

    Old Rim Road Dispersed Site

    Beat the Heat

    I wanted to get out of the southern Arizona heat. This place did just that. Only the opposite side of the highway of Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs Lake. Both are just a 15min drive. Plenty of room for big rigs (40’+). I brought my 37’ Motorhome and had no problem finding a big enough site. Sites are marked and plenty spread out from other campers. Great views and perfect summer weather.

  • Robert H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from FR141 Dispersed Site
    Jul. 2, 2024

    FR141 Dispersed Site

    Weekend on the Rim

    A wonderful spot that is secluded and away from the busy FR300 traffic. 8 miles off of Hwy 87. There are no services but close to Kehl Springs Campground where there are restrooms.

    There is no cell service but close to the Rim where you have service.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Homolovi State Park Campground
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Homolovi State Park Campground

    Wonderful campground

    We had a pull through for one night on our trip. It was an easy hookup. The trails are a 1mile hike from camp. It was hot so we didn’t get all the way. The bathrooms are ok. We didn’t check out the showers.



Guide to Forest Lakes

Camping near Forest Lakes, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails around the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes, with one reviewer mentioning, "We took a 3.3 mile hike to Woods Canyon Lake. There is a marina and boat rentals available" at Mogollon Campground.
  • Fishing: The lakes nearby are great for fishing. One camper shared, "We went to fish. As other people have stated, very steep to get down to the lake," at Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. A visitor at Knoll Lake Campground noted, "We saw a few times elk and deer."

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and campsites. One review for Canyon Point Campground stated, "Bathrooms and showers are kept very clean. Sites are very clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer ample space between sites. A camper at Aspen Campground mentioned, "The site was lovely... you did not feel in top of your neighbors."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campground hosts often receive praise for their helpfulness. A visitor at Houston Mesa Campground said, "The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Carr Lake Campground, have no drinking water or toilets. A reviewer noted, "No amenities. Pack in, pack out."
  • Noise Levels: Expect some noise, especially on weekends. A camper at Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area mentioned, "Nights were rowdy... ATVs ripping around at night."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can fill up quickly. One camper at Mogollon Campground advised, "On the weekend it is packed... creates a lot of dust and noise."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Weekdays: If possible, plan your trip during the week to avoid crowds. A visitor at Houston Mesa Campground enjoyed a quieter experience, saying, "Very quiet (mid week)."
  • Bring Activities: Keep kids entertained with games and outdoor activities. One family at Aspen Campground loved the space, stating, "Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A camper at Payson Campground & RV Resort mentioned, "The property is kept up very well and staff were very friendly."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Knoll Lake Campground noted, "Parking can be full in Summer."
  • Look for Electric Hookups: Some campgrounds offer electric hookups, which can be a lifesaver. A camper at Canyon Point Campground appreciated, "Nice to be able to connect to electric a few days."
  • Be Prepared for Rough Roads: Some access roads can be bumpy. A visitor at Carr Lake Campground mentioned, "The main road is a good well-maintained dirt/gravel road."

Camping near Forest Lakes, Arizona, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning and these tips, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Forest Lakes, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Forest Lakes, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 192 campgrounds and RV parks near Forest Lakes, AZ and 70 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Forest Lakes, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Forest Lakes, AZ is Aspen Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 26 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Forest Lakes, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 70 free dispersed camping spots near Forest Lakes, AZ.

  • What parks are near Forest Lakes, AZ?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Forest Lakes, AZ that allow camping, notably Tonto National Forest and Coconino National Forest.