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Best Tent Camping near McNary, AZ

197 Reviews

The Apache-White Mountain region surrounding McNary, Arizona offers several tent camping options on both tribal and public lands. Shush Bezahze campground on the Apache Reservation provides tent-only camping with lake access, basic amenities, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Brown Creek Campground, though minimally marked and developed, offers secluded tent campsites with abundant shade from ponderosa pines. Beehive Spring Camp provides primitive tent camping at higher elevations, while McCoys Bridge and Shush-Be-Tou Lake campgrounds offer additional tent camping options within the reservation boundaries.

Many tent campgrounds in the McNary area require special permits for non-tribal members, particularly those on Apache Reservation lands. Campers should verify permit requirements before arrival, as some areas like Cooley Lake are restricted to tribal members only. Primitive tent camping sites typically lack developed amenities, with campers reporting few established fire rings at locations like Brown Creek. Roads to most tent-only sites remain unpaved but are generally accessible with standard vehicles in dry conditions. Vault toilets are available at some established campgrounds, while dispersed backcountry tent sites require pack-in, pack-out practices for all waste and supplies.

The tent camping experience near McNary varies significantly with elevation and season. According to reviews, Brown Creek Campground offers exceptional seclusion, with one camper noting "if you didn't know it was here, you wouldn't ever guess there was a campground." Walk-in tent sites at some locations require carrying gear short distances from parking areas, but reward campers with better views and privacy. At Beehive Spring Camp, which sits at approximately 9,200 feet elevation, temperatures drop significantly at night even in September. Monsoon season from late June through August brings almost daily rainfall to the region, affecting tent camping conditions. Wildlife sightings, including bears, have been reported near some backcountry tent camping areas, requiring proper food storage practices.

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Best Tent Sites Near McNary, Arizona (35)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near McNary, AZ

8 Photos of 35 McNary Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near McNary, AZ

197 Reviews of 35 McNary Campgrounds

  • Hayley K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 17, 2020

    Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res

    Camping for Nearby Lake Access

    We camped here when we had a permit to fish at nearby Christmas Tree Lake. Christmas Tree Lake is a beautiful little lake nestled in the White Mountains of Arizona on Apache land. It boasts some amazing fishing for the native trout species- the Apache trout. The fish are stocked, so it may not be a true experience for some but most of the access to the native fish in their native habitat is restricted or non existent to protect these beautiful creatures. The lake offers paid access on a day to day basis. A total of 25 permits per day are offered to keep fishing pressure in check. But these permits are non refundable so don't reserve too early. 

    Permits and information can be found on the website but customer service can be difficult. Camping is available on a first come basis at Hawley Lake which also offers great fishing and beautiful scenery. Be aware that I did experience some free range cattle snooping through the camp at 2am which was a bit unexpected. Also, being in the mountains, it was pretty cold at night. 

    The area we camped in was open and the roads were well marked. Campsites were situated near fire rings with only the occasional picnic table. There were four pretty well maintained portable toilets near our camp as well. Be sure to review the rules and regulations on the website as some areas are off limits and to make sure you have all the proper permits for fishing and/or camping.(State and local licenses required for fishing)

  • Beth G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2023

    Hannagan Campground - Apache Sitgreaves National Forests

    Lovely Little Campground

    This is a great campsite that is full of amenities for FREE (donations accepted).

    There are just a few spots and they are first come , first serve. We enjoyed chatting with the camp host and taking a walk along the hiking trails.

    At over 9000 feet elevation, this is a great spot to beat the AZ summer heat. The sites are nestled away among the tree and feel very secluded considering how close together they actually are to each other.

    Great for tent camping or a small camping trailer. Site have picnic tables, vault toilets, and drinking water

  • Ashley A.
    Jun. 26, 2022

    Alpine Divide Campground

    Great Setting, Average Site

    Alpine Divide is nestled in the Ponderosa Pines just outside of Alpine, AZ. It is pretty typical for a USFS site of its type. Perforated style picnic table, fire ring with grill attachment, vault toilet. The views are amazing, though! It is right off the highway so there is some road noise and half of the 12 sites are currently inaccessible (as of 2021).

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 15, 2024

    Buffalo Crossing Campground

    Love this river and area

    The location is wrong! This is the coordinates - 33.76672° N, 109.35443° W This was so much more beautiful before the Wallow Fire. Please put out your fires! I grew up not far from here and always enjoy coming. There are small trout in the river and Big Lake, Crescent Lake, Mexican Hat Lake, Reservation Lake, and Lee Valley Reservoir all close. There is picnic tables, potable water in tanks if needed, vault toilets, fire rings all in the campground. The marina store at Big Lake and Crescent Lake both have stores with firewood. At the time of the posting, the camp host at Diamond Rock campground had firewood for sale not far up the road. Watch the corners going in and out as the OHV guys drive pretty fast and the road is narrow in many places. Bear Wallow Cafe is in Alpine and I recommend the pie!

  • Tiffany B.
    May. 12, 2022

    Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    5 star if you pick the right sites

    We booked the last site available so I think with some careful reviewing of site map and asking over the phone about specific needs this is a 5 star spot, but it isn’t particularly pop up friendly. There are primitive tent sites and an assortment of electric + sites. The grounds are gorgeous, lots of space around the lake, so so so very quiet and clean. We have a small pop up. Generally we chose more primitive or small electric only sites. No rigs like ours were in the tent area so not sure if that is an option. Almost ALL the spaces are side by side shared double lots in the cinnamon teal loop. At least 40% - amazing if you’re group camping, but I like my space and privacy. Quiet hours 8pm- 7am. Showers/toilets in each loop. No outlets in bathroom for hair drying etc. showers were cold after minute 2 and each unit was a full bath so also cold and wet. None of this would matter at a cheap site but a hook up is $65/night. Surrounding town is cute with amenities. Visit The House for a meal.

  • Connor N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 23, 2021

    Timber Camp Recreation Area and Group Campgrounds

    Decent campground, few amenities, in the middle of nowhere

    Enjoyed three nights and generally had the place to ourselves excluding the host. The host was very nice. The fee station was out of order during our stay, so we paid via daily tickets at a place in Globe on our way out. The campground is right off the highway so there was a fair amount of traffic noise, but not unbearable. Little to do in the way of hikes within walking distance, but we enjoyed walking around the campground and into the woods to the north and east. Verizon service was great the entire time. Sites are well maintained and level. Vault toilets were clean. Each site has a steel fire ring and grate as well as a nice metal picnic table. There a a few group areas with full grills and communal tables. The campground appears fairly new.

  • Krista Z.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2017

    Show Low Lake Campground

    RIGHT on the edge of town.

    Cute little Campground literally on the edge of town. If you look in one direction you'll see the apartment buildings about a quarter mile away (you can see it in the video). Each "Loop" has about 4 to 6 spots and a hauled water dispenser with a faucet. There is a men's and women's bathroom for each Loop and a set of bear boxes. The bathrooms have wooden barn looking doors and a 5 gallon bucket in the corner for trash. Each campsite has a picnic table, a standing Grill, and a metal fire pit with Grill. Less than a quarter-mile away there is a canyon so if you have little ones you may want to pick your spot accordingly. The plus side to the canyon is there were people parked near the boat dock that had hiked down it to fish. Some campsites are pull in and some are pull through. A lot had reserved tags but there were still plenty open. There is a lake probably half a mile walk to where you can fish. Otherwise you can drive to it and park fairly close to the dock.

  • Rara B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2021

    Rainbow (AZ)

    Beautiful Hiking, Serene Camping

    Camped here in October 2016. My all-time favorite campgrounds. We tent camped and it was freezing cold, poured rain. We had huge sleeping bags and a little propane heater, and still really enjoyed it. Lots of area to hike and tons to see.

  • Kathy W.
    Aug. 30, 2016

    Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    Fool Hollow

    Probably the most beautiful campground in Arizona. Just outside Show Low, in the eastern part of the state, you are nestled in the pine & juniper of the region. Despite being in the middle of a developed area, once in the park, you feel appropriately isolated. We were at a reserved tent site (Osprey 12). All tent sites overlook the lake & a couple of them even have creeks running through them after rain. Visited family on a full hookup site & while the pads are huge, it seemed like you were more exposed to your neighbors. The tent loops all have access to a vault toilet & the middle loop has showers as well (the other loops are still walking distance from showers). There are several day use areas & boat ramps to the lake. Saw (& heard) many different birds & animals. Can't wait to go back.

Guide to McNary

Nestled in the heart of Arizona, McNary offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to nature lovers seeking tranquility and adventure.

Tent campers should check out secluded spots

  • Experience the tranquility of Brown Creek Campground, where you'll find a secluded atmosphere surrounded by trees and ample shade, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • For a unique experience, visit Shush Bezahze, a beautiful campground on the Apache Reservation, offering easy access to wildlife and a serene lake.
  • If you're looking for a simple yet charming spot, Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ provides a cozy environment near lakes, ideal for relaxation.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • At Brown Creek Campground, enjoy hiking and exploring the surrounding forest, with plenty of downed wood available for campfires.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity of Shush Bezahze to local lakes, making it a great spot for casting a line and enjoying the outdoors.
  • For those who enjoy wildlife observation, Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ is a fantastic choice, as it’s located in an area known for its diverse fauna.

Tips for tent camping near McNary

  • When camping at Brown Creek Campground, be prepared for a lack of amenities; bring your own supplies, including water and a portable toilet.
  • If you choose Shush Bezahze, remember that alcohol is allowed, so pack accordingly for a relaxing evening by the fire.
  • For a unique experience, consider Peace of Mind Campgrounds: SHOW LOW, AZ, where you can reserve your spot in advance, ensuring a hassle-free arrival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near McNary, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near McNary, AZ is Shush Bezahze with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near McNary, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 35 tent camping locations near McNary, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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