Camping areas around Pine provide seasonal access to Arizona's high-elevation ponderosa forests from late spring through fall. Most sites sit between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation where summer temperatures range 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix. Winter camping options decrease significantly with many forest roads closed December through March due to snow and ice conditions.
What to do
Creek access for cooling off: Houston Mesa Campground offers proximity to water holes within a short drive. "Our favorite day use river spot is 15 minutes away👌🏻 A+++," notes Will W. The campground serves as a convenient base for water activities during hot summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Aspen Campground provides access to stocked lakes. "The trout fishing here is top notch. The lake is stocked during the summer almost everyweek but the hold overs in the spring can get pretty huge!" shares Shaun S. Waters are typically most productive early morning or evening hours.
Off-highway vehicle trails: Dispersed camping along Forest Service Road 81 allows direct access to trail systems. "Great area for dispersed camping! Plentiful large sites... if this area has a drawback, it's that it has a lot of OHV use on weekends," reports Chuck N. The area requires no permits for camping but follows standard 14-day stay limits.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around Knoll Lake Campground host diverse wildlife. "We could hear a lot. The elk were loud in the early morning," Jay L. explains. Dawn and dusk offer the best chances for wildlife sightings from camp or nearby trails.
What campers like
Creek swimming: Cave Springs provides natural water features for summer relief. "This campground has tons of sites to choose from many of them a short walk from the creek. There's a swimming hole on the creek nearby," notes Victor R. The creek remains accessible throughout the camping season.
Spacious campsites: Houston Mesa Campground offers room to spread out. "These spots are fairly large and allow for some large rigs and is located right on the edge of town. No hook ups though but you can fill your tanks on site," reports Miguel M. Sites accommodate various camping setups from tents to larger RVs.
Tree cover and shade: Knoll Lake's surroundings provide natural cooling. "There are lots of dispersed camping along the first road 295 (which leads up to Knoll Lake). Coconino National Forest allows camping up to 300ft from the road," Whitney W. explains. The forest canopy maintains lower temperatures even during peak summer months.
Proximity to towns: Payson Campground & RV Resort offers convenience to urban amenities. "You are off a major road so near by shopping is a breeze but you will not be forced to hear the traffic so no worries there," shares Brandy La Shea S. The location provides quick access to supplies when needed.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote sites requires preparation. "You have to take it slow heading back since the road is rough. I drive a Hyundai Sante Fe Sport and was fine," advises Jay L. about routes near Knoll Lake. Many forest roads remain unpaved and may deteriorate after rain.
Bears in the area: Wildlife precautions matter in the forests. "According to the rangers, bears are active in the area so it's important to follow the safety protocols," Whitney W. notes about camping near Knoll Lake. Food storage in vehicles or bear-resistant containers prevents unwanted encounters.
Cell service limitations: Verde Valley RV Resort & Cottages offers better connectivity than forest sites. "Verizon and AT&T work awesome here," Thomas S. reports, unlike most forest campsites where service remains spotty or nonexistent.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Pine, Arizona, Thousand Trails Verde Valley offers alternative accommodations. "This Thousand Trails campground offers a scenic and tranquil escape. The sites are well-spaced, and the amenities include a pool, hot tub, 2 dog parks, hiking trails, river access and clubhouse," according to Paulina B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities reduce boredom. "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" shares Mstwister E. about Verde River RV Resort.
Swimming options: Natural water features provide cooling recreation. "My kids enjoy staying here but be warned that 'resort' should be taken lightly. There is a 'playground' which consists of a metal swing set, uncovered and a small basketball court," explains Brandy La Shea S. about Payson Campground.
Wildlife education: Moqui Group Campground offers learning opportunities. "The woods are amazing and there were signs posted what to do in case a bear wandered into camp," Angel A. reports. The surroundings create natural science lessons about forest ecosystems.
Space for kids to explore: Houston Mesa provides room for active children. "Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees," Brad & Britany B. share. The natural setting encourages outdoor play away from electronics.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Payson Campground serves RVers needing services. "We chose this camp ground due to it having full hooks up's. Our spot was a bit tight with camper & 2 SUV's but we managed," shares Paul Z. Most sites accommodate standard-sized rigs with full hookups.
Dump station access: Houston Mesa offers practical services. "Close drive to home and nice setup that makes you feel like you are in the woods. No hookups here at all but nice clean bathrooms to use. Dump station was closed while we were here and it looks like they charge to use is when open," Chris P. notes. The dump station typically costs $10 when operational.
Site selection strategy: Aspen Campground provides RV-suitable spots. "Very large sites and lots of first come first served as well as reservable spaces," Sharon F. explains. Arriving mid-week improves chances of securing preferred locations.
Seasonal considerations: For those interested in yurt camping in Pine, Arizona's surrounding areas, most facilities close during winter months. "It is a beautiful spot. The current rate is $22 a night... close to Sedona," Dean H. shares about Cave Springs, which operates March through November like most high-elevation campgrounds.
