RV parks near McNary, Arizona offer camping options in the White Mountains at elevations around 7,000 feet. The area experiences cooler summer temperatures compared to desert regions, with daytime highs typically in the 70s-80s°F during peak season. Most campgrounds in this ponderosa pine region impose strict fire restrictions from late spring until monsoon season begins in July.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes within 20 miles of McNary provide trout fishing. Visitors at Springerville RV Park mention proximity to outdoor recreation. According to one camper, "Had reservations that were made on the phone and when we arrived we were able to get an upgrade to full hookups. Very nice place. Not much shade but well taken care of and would recommend checking it out!"
Casino entertainment: The Hon-Dah Casino adjacent to some RV parks offers gaming and dining options. A visitor notes, "Casino and its restaurants next door. Wild horses venture through the camp in the evening!"
Mountain biking trails: The White Mountains contain extensive trail networks for various skill levels. One reviewer at Mogollon RV Park states, "This is on the mogollon rim so there is some great hiking and sightseeing nearby. Several lakes close also."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds report wild horse sightings. As one Springerville RV Park guest shared, "The spots are big and spread out. Clean laundry, clean grounds. Good electricity and water pressure. Only one wifi spot near office. Super nice folks."
Climate relief: Temperatures 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix make summer camping comfortable. A reviewer at Ponderosa RV Resort explains, "My wife and I have always wanted to visit The White Mountains in Arizona since over the years we've gone by several times on I40. We decided to visit and Ponderosa RV Resort in Lakeside sounded pretty good, 55+was great to not worry about being hit by energetic kids."
Central location: RV parks serve as convenient bases for exploring the entire White Mountains region. According to one visitor, "Location is central to everything. In fact, we rode our eBikes to get to just about everything. Temps are warm in June and then cool down significantly after the Monsoon rains begin."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds experience significant seasonal changes. A visitor at Elk Horn RV Park notes, "Park is looking great. Great location between Show Low and Pinetop with Highway access."
Reservation requirements: Summer months require advance booking due to high demand. One camper states, "We spent 5-nights here (July 1-6, 2022). Ponderosa is a reasonably quiet RV park in the pines of Pinetop. I wouldn't call Ponderosa a RV Resort as it's more a trailer park with the vast majority of occupants being long term tenants."
Connectivity issues: Cell service varies throughout the region. A reviewer explains, "Verizon 5G is strong but slowish. Close to town. Right on the highway but it was quiet at night."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Local towns offer family-friendly attractions when not at camp. A visitor at Snowflake Arizona RV Park shares, "I love that I didnt have to meet with anyone. Just booked online, and checked in and out on my own."
Weather preparation: Summer thunderstorms occur frequently during monsoon season. According to campers, "It is a nice flat place to walk your dogs. There is no fenced in dog run areas."
Site selection: Corner sites typically offer more space for families. One camper notes, "The sites are pretty level, really wide, and fairly deep. There is a concrete patio with each site."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites with 50-amp service exist at several parks. A visitor at Waltner's RV Resort states, "Great park, close to town but you'd never know it. Among the pines and cedar trees of the White Mountains."
Road conditions: Mountain roads to RV parks may include steep grades and tight turns. One RVer explains, "Good wide turns, clear signage, and in 10 years all the baby trees will super. We even had pizza delivered to our spot."
Site leveling: Most RV sites require minimal leveling. According to one reviewer, "Very level site, we didn't have to unhook."
