Camping near Happy Jack, Arizona occurs at 6,500-7,000 feet elevation in the Coconino National Forest. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day with nighttime lows often dropping into the 40s. The high-altitude Ponderosa pine forests create a cooler climate than nearby desert regions, making it a popular destination from May through October.
What to Do
Hiking on Arizona Trail: The Arizona Trail crosses through Double Springs Campground, providing direct trail access. "The nearby trail to the overlook is a pleasant hike, not too intense," notes Renee H., while another visitor mentions the "tiny nearby creek can almost be heard from the site, and to the right there is a small field that the Arizona Trail crosses through."
Fishing opportunities: Knoll Lake Campground offers shoreline fishing in a secluded setting. "Lots of Fish!!" reports Jesse S., who visited during hunting season. For boat access, Lake Knoll provides options: "Spent the day on the lake which is well worth the extra drive to avoid the crowds at Woods Canyon," reports Whitney W.
Off-roading trails: The national forest around Happy Jack contains extensive OHV trails. "More RV park campers means more cell congestion and slower speeds. If this area has a drawback, it's that it has a lot of OHV use on weekends," notes Chuck N. about dispersed camping areas along Forest Service Road 81.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Many campers value the spacing between designated camping areas. At Cave Springs Campground, "Most of the spots have ample room so that you can only hear your neighbors if they are yelling," according to Victor R., who also noted "There's a steel fire ring and picnic table at each site."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides chances to spot and hear forest animals. Near Knoll Lake, Jay L. reports, "It amazingly quiet. The next closest campers were probably a half mile away. Didn't see any wild life but we definitely could hear a lot. The elk were loud in the early morning."
Natural water features: Creeks and lakes enhance the camping experience. "The creek is lovely to sit in or swim in and chill down," reports Karen D. about Rancho Sedona RV Park. "You can walk down along the creek and find some peaceful rocks for sitting on to read or contemplate," adds Kim G.
What You Should Know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from late April through September/October. Mormon Lake area features seasonal camping, with Mormon Lake Lodge RV Park & Campground noted for its "astonishing campground: all in alpine forests, at about 6500'. Mild summer, with cool nights, many escape the heat of PHX up here," according to Paul W.
Cell service variability: Connectivity is limited in most areas. "Do note: Campsite does not have cell service (and I have Verizon). You can walk out to the camp entrance just at the main road and pick up some service there if needed," reports Kaysha R. about Double Springs Campground.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds require travel on rough forest roads. For Knoll Lake, Penny A. warns, "This campsite is a bit far away and a good 1/3 of the drive is on switch back fire roads but this campground is worth it." Another camper adds, "I drive a Hyundai Sante Fe Sport and was fine. Was able to get 3-4 miles back and had just a 1.25 mile hike down to the lake."
Water availability: Water sources vary by campground. "Drinking water is a must, the water at the campground is barely clean enough for cleaning, unless it can be boiled ahead of time," notes a visitor to Knoll Lake Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer activities for children. Flagstaff KOA provides "a great place if you have children. Lots for them to do and lots of kids to play with," according to Terry T., who stayed there for two nights.
Spacious sites for play: Look for campgrounds with room for children to explore. Brad and Britany B. found that Houston Mesa Campground offers "ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees."
Wildlife education opportunities: Campgrounds often post educational materials about local wildlife. Angel A. reports that at Moqui Group Campground, "The woods are amazing and there were signs posted what to do in case a bear wandered into camp."
Yurt camping options: For families wanting more comfort, yurt camping in Happy Jack, Arizona provides amenities while maintaining the outdoor experience. Several campgrounds including Flagstaff KOA offer yurt accommodations with varying levels of amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV parks have varying space between sites. Derek C. reports that at Mormon Lake Lodge RV Park, "the RV sites are so packed together that you barely have room to put out your slides or awnings," while noting that "only the first three rows of sites are wooded, the rest are basically just in an open field."
Hookup availability: Electrical and water hookups vary widely by campground. Cave Springs has no hookups according to multiple reviews, while Mormon Lake Lodge "has many 30/50 amp full-hook up sites, with a laundry and shower room" according to Paul W.
Campground-specific amenities: Some RV parks offer unique benefits. At Rancho Sedona, Kim G. appreciated that "there is a dog run, laundry, and volleyball court. Really well run with a lot of attention to upkeep of the grounds."
Access to supplies: Proximity to stores matters for longer stays. Brad and Britany B. note that Houston Mesa Campground has "Home Depot and Walmart nearby," which they found "outweighs these minor drawbacks" of road noise.
