Camping near Morenci, Arizona offers options across significantly varied elevations, with sites ranging from 3,000 feet in lower desert areas to over 8,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. This elevation variation creates temperature differences that can exceed 30°F between lower and higher campsites during summer months. The region experiences dramatic seasonal changes, with monsoon storms typically occurring July through September and occasional snow at higher elevations from December through February.
What to do
Creek exploration: Owl Creek Campground features a small hiking trail leading to a bridge and along the creek. "We really enjoy this spot. There are 7 campsites with ramadas and fire rings. One small pit toilet. There's a small hiking trail to a bridge that leads to the day use area and along the creek. We saw some coatimundi and lots of evidence of other wildlife!" notes Mike D.
Rock collecting: Black Hills Rockhound area allows visitors to search for fire agates right on the ground surface. "Millions of years ago, volcanic activity in the Southwest create lava rocks and fire agate. Inside the Rockhound area you can walk and collect fire agates right off the surface of the ground. It is the desert equivalent of searching for sea shells at the beach," explains Beth G.
**Mountain driving: Forest roads near Morenci provide scenic drives with significant elevation changes. "Sunday I drove up Mt. Graham till the road turn to dirt and enjoyed the cold and quite," shares Mindy H. about escaping summer heat during her stay at Roper Lake State Park. Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after monsoon rains.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from desert heat. "Nice little campground, high enough elevation that it was noticeably cooler than lower elevations. Heavily wooded, super quiet and secluded," reports camper Optimus about Lower Juan Miller Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forests and riparian areas support diverse wildlife. "We saw some coatimundi and lots of evidence of other wildlife!" shares Mike D. about Owl Creek Campground. Other campers report seeing deer, elk, and various bird species throughout the Apache National Forest.
Water access: Several campgrounds provide river or lake access. "Open well kept campground. 5 bucks a night. Just a walk from the river and a nice riparian area," notes Jacob M. about Riverview Campground. "The Bonita creek drive is gorgeous and provides creek water you can get in. Was a beautiful escape and very green post rain," adds Sara.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns. You turn off the pavement to dirt the last 1/4 mile. Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," warns Shane W. about Riverview Campground.
Amenities vary significantly: While some parks offer full services, dispersed sites require complete self-sufficiency. "Quite dispersed camping. I was here in early March so I was the only one. Forested lots with nice shade but with some solar harvesting. Nice and clean, well maintained," explains Al L. about Apache National Forest dispersed camping.
Construction activity: Check current conditions before departing. "Stayed here in one of the three semi-completed campsites. Nice place to throw down off the beaten path. The entire grounds are a work in progress tho and the sites are littered with sharp objects like screws, nails, etc.," warns Tim M. about Owl Creek Campground's recent development.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Many sites lack cell service and medical facilities are distant. "There is a couple different spots to post up in. Plenty of room for a tent, there was a couple of people there and it was very quite and peaceful. Fire rings, picnic tables, and a bathroom even if it was not the nicest," notes April S. about Apache National Forest dispersed camping.
Bike-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer safe areas for children to ride. "Kids were able to ride bikes on the numerous paths around the campgrounds and lake," shares Ryan V. about his family's experience at Roper Lake State Park.
Swimming areas: During hot months, water access becomes critical for families. "Great family friendly camping! Very clean and well kept park, beach swimming area is very large and never felt crowded by people!" reports J K. about Roper Lake State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site navigation: Many forest roads and campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "6/30/2022, 7:00 pm, completely empty. Nice little campground, high enough elevation that it was noticeably cooler than lower elevations. Heavily wooded, super quiet and secluded. I was able to easily get a 24' class C in and maneuver around," shares Optimus about Lower Juan Miller Campground.
Hookup availability: For those needing services, options are limited to specific locations. "We are staying here for 6 days. Mostly quiet (except when they emptied the dumpster at 5am on Monday morning) and peaceful. We have Passport America so the price is right. Full hookups," notes Lynn W. about North Clifton RV Park.
Dump station status: Check before arrival as facilities may close temporarily. "Sadly, there is construction going on in the park right now. It is windy and cold. The sites are pretty private and there are nice picnic table covers. Unfortunately, the dump station is closed for a while," reports Shawn about Roper Lake State Park.
