Camping near Greer, Arizona offers an escape into the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest at elevations between 8,500-9,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 40°F at night to mid-70s during the day, even in July and August. The region features several lake-based campgrounds with designated tent sites, RV spaces, and yurt accommodations throughout the White Mountains.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Big Lake Campground, visitors can rent boats directly from the marina. "We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather," notes Joseph K. The lake is stocked regularly and permits are required.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Greer provide excellent wildlife spotting chances. A camper at Rainbow Campground shared, "Quiet, beautiful, and clean. We even had visits from deer, a very bold skunk, chipmunks, squirrels, and blue jays." Mexican gray wolves have been spotted on forest roads.
Hiking trails: Multiple non-motorized trails are accessible from campgrounds. "There are lots of opportunity to fish! There are vault toilets close to most sites, though some require a bit more of a walk," reports Ash C. about Big Lake. The Mount Baldy wilderness area offers challenging hikes with significant elevation gains.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from desert heat. "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 and the passing rain showers," explains Rod D. about Rainbow Campground.
Lakeside access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to water. At Brook Char Campground, "spot 12 is the best for tent camping and closest to the water. Bears frequent the area so you must lock up all food and trash in your car overnight," advises Kamala G.
Privacy between sites: The natural layout provides separation at many campgrounds. "The sites have plenty of room for 2 tents. There is a clean bathroom in the campsite as well as water," notes Candy P. about Brook Char Campground. Some locations offer tent-only areas with more secluded spaces.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans are common during dry periods. "Firepit, picnic table and restroom facilities close by. The camp host Bob was very nice and had plenty of firewood for purchase," explains Cyndi S. about Brook Char, though restrictions can change quickly.
Wildlife precautions: Bears and other wildlife require proper food storage. At Hawley Lake Apache Indian Reservation, campers advise: "Bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows."
Reservation requirements: Most designated campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "It had been 28 years since we last camped at Rainbow. Reserve site 9 on Recreation.gov. The host expected me," shares a Rainbow camper. First-come-first-served loops are available but fill by Friday afternoon in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Store access: Lyman Lake State Park provides convenient amenities. "The on-site store sold firewood, bait, fishing and boating gear, snacks and souvenirs. The fishing was decent for catfish but you have to compete with the strong winds," shares JB L.
Weather preparation: Afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through September. "Weather was nice, but super windy. Ranger store on site with gas. Ranger was very nice. Bathrooms were clean with nice showers and flush toilets," reports a Lyman Lake visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Several lakes offer rental equipment for families. "The lake was beautiful. We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather. Wildlife: we saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," describes Mike C.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: While many locations are primitive, some offer full services. At Reservation Lake Apache Indian Res, "There is a loop around the East side with many different sites. There is a host there also. Tables and fire pit at most sites and some within walking distance to lake to fish," explains Gerald R.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require travel on unpaved routes. "The dirt washboard road getting in (45 mins) was enough for me to not love this place (I'm traveling with an infant and toddler). But, once you're there it really is a beautiful place," warns a visitor to Reservation Lake.
Site selection: Look for level pads with adequate shade. "We camped in site 20 at Grayling Campground (one of 5 or 6 campgrounds within the Big Lake Recreation Area.) The sites are large and well spaced. Site 20 is especially rocky, uneven and rooty which is why I didn't give this campground a 5," cautions Elisa.
