Best Campgrounds near Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ
Camping near Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona is situated in the ponderosa pine forests of the White Mountains, with elevations around 6,200 feet providing a cool retreat from Arizona's desert heat. The area encompasses a mix of established campgrounds, RV resorts, and dispersed camping opportunities. Notable locations include Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area in nearby Show Low, consistently rated as one of the region's top campgrounds, and Los Burros Campground in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Several campgrounds are located on White Mountain Apache Tribal lands, including Hawley Lake, which requires special permits for camping and fishing. Many sites offer lake access, with fishing being a primary attraction throughout the region.
Most campgrounds in the Pinetop-Lakeside area are seasonal, typically operating from May through October, though some RV parks remain open year-round. Summer temperatures range from highs around 80°F to lows in the 40s, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Fire restrictions are frequently implemented during dry periods, particularly in early summer before monsoon rains arrive. Cell service varies significantly, with better coverage near towns and limited or no service in more remote areas. Reservations are strongly recommended for established campgrounds during summer weekends and holidays, as the area's cooler climate makes it extremely popular with visitors escaping the heat of Phoenix and Tucson.
The camping options around Pinetop-Lakeside cater to various preferences and needs. RV parks like Hon-Dah RV Park and Ponderosa RV Resort offer full hookups and amenities closer to town, while forest campgrounds provide a more rustic experience with vault toilets and limited services. According to reviews, wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, with visitors reporting encounters with elk, deer, and occasionally free-range horses and cattle. One camper noted, "The elevation makes for very pleasant weather most of the year. I have spent Thanksgiving at Fool Hollow and loved that it got cold at night and a little warmer during the day." Fishing permits are required for all lakes, with special tribal permits needed for waters on Apache land.
