Best Campgrounds near Forest Lakes, AZ

Several pine-shaded camping options surround Forest Lakes, Arizona, from regular campgrounds to more basic sites. Mogollon Campground has big sites under tall pines where many campers stay. Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area works well for people who want quiet spots with fishing and hiking nearby. Carr Lake Campground sits close to trails and has a peaceful setting. You'll likely see deer and different birds while camping here, so store food properly to keep bears and other animals away. Check for fire rules before your trip since they change during dry periods. Most places don't need permits, but double-check the rules for your specific campground. Spring and fall bring the best weather, as summers get hot and winter can be snowy at higher spots. Many campgrounds don't take reservations, so arrive early to get a site. The area makes a good base camp if you want to visit the Grand Canyon or Sonoran Desert during your trip. Both new and experienced campers find good spots around Forest Lakes. Take all trash with you when you leave and follow Leave No Trace practices. The Forest Lakes area has enough different camping spots that you can find one that fits what you're looking for.

Best Camping Sites Near Forest Lakes, Arizona (197)

    1. Aspen Campground

    26 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-9859

    $35 / night

    "It’s just a short walk to Woods Canyon lake. It’s fully stocked over the summer month with trout. They have kayak rentals available also and electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake."

    "The lake is in walking distance with rentable boats and swimming. The site was a drive up, with a table and pit."

    2. Fr 171 Campground

    15 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    4 miles
    Website

    "We are fairly new to camping in Arizona. We decided to go camping last minute this past weekend, so we had no reservations. We found this area randomly, and we were very pleased."

    "Proximity to the Rim Visitor's Center for some ranger advice and a toliet! Also just right across the street from the Rim Lakes."

    3. Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground

    15 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-9859

    $38 - $260 / night

    "The sites are similar to other campground around the area. The sites are kind of close together but that’s to be expected."

    "Located in the scenic Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest in north central Arizona near the town of Heber.

    Beautiful campground. Very well taken care of. Sites are large and spread out. Very quiet."

    4. Christopher Creek

    21 Reviews
    Kohls Ranch, AZ
    13 miles
    Website

    $24 - $80 / night

    "I have been coming here since i was a kid, my parents made sure we come here every year in the summer to enjoy cooler Arizona weather."

    "This is a good campsite just a short drive from Phoenix.  Campsites are on the smaller side and close to each other so would recommend mid-week camping over weekend."

    5. Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    19 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-7300

    "I’ve camped here twice and not only it’s great spot for the kids to roam around, it’s also nice having the lake close by."

    "Most of the campsites closer to the lake entrance were designed to have multiple tents. There was loud music and gunshots (even though there is no target shooting allowed) well past midnight."

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

    11 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-9859

    $20 / night

    "Only 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."

    "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."

    7. Sinkhole Campground

    9 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-9859

    $25 / night

    "My dog and I love it up here during an Arizona summer. Nice and cool with the Willow Springs lake nearby. Clean good camping."

    "We visited here for a night get away from Scottsdale. It's amazing! We sadly only camped one night."

    8. Mogollon Campground

    11 Reviews
    Kohls Ranch, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 535-9859

    $18 / night

    "For the distance it is away from Phoenix you can beat it ! 2hrs drive time!"

    "Just a 1/2 mile on dirt road so that’s nice but the walk in spots for this campsite are SMALL and VERY tight/close together. Not only that but all spots are parallel."

    9. Fr 195 Campground

    9 Reviews
    Kohls Ranch, AZ
    9 miles
    Website

    "Quite and off the busy path Elk at night"

    "The hike to the lake is rough at first between two campsites, then a long and reasonably smooth path, followed by a steep climb down (we had to carry our 2 year old)."

    10. Rim Road

    6 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    3 miles

    "We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful. We just got here and I have at least some reception because I’m doing the review from the site."

    "There are places to get away from the main roads and places near the roads for those with toys.

    The further from the toys and noisy people, the better for us."

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Showing results 1-10 of 197 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Forest Lakes, AZ

717 Reviews of 197 Forest Lakes Campgrounds



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 197 campgrounds and RV parks near Forest Lakes, AZ and 69 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 69 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.