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Best Campgrounds near Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ

306 Reviews

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.

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Best Camping Sites Near Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona (137)

    1. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    45 Reviews
    Show Low, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-3680

    $25 - $75 / night

    "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."

    "The lake is fabulous for kayaking, or just hiking around.  Each campsite is spaced well away from neighboring sites, among beautiful, tall pines.  There is room to stretch out and relax.  "

    2. Show Low Lake Campground

    11 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-4126

    $18 - $150 / night

    "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)."

    "There are no hookups at all on this second loop, but you can fill fresh water from over near the dump station.

    Short walk to the lake for swimming and/or fishing."

    3. Encore Venture In

    6 Reviews
    Show Low, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great place to spend the summer months in Arizona. A bit expensive, but I was here for work so it was paid for."

    "They present a somewhat soft surface which is like walking in about 6 inches of soft sand. Almost all the sites have a tree planted right at the front next to the road."

    4. Hon-Dah RV Park

    4 Reviews
    McNary, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 369-0299

    "Excellent location near Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low. Easy check-in. Wifi available. Clean bathrooms. Laundry available. Wonderful hosts. 24 hour security driving around."

    "We had to crab over them so that we didn't leave our plumbing with them (and very nearly did leave some plumbing the first time over the first one)."

    5. Elk Horn RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 368-5343

    "Great location between Show Low and Pinetop with Highway access."

    6. Waltner's RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-4611

    "Great park, close to town but you’d never know it. Among the pines and cedar trees of the White Mountains"

    7. Ponderosa RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (928) 368-6989

    $45 / night

    "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. "

    "There are plenty local attractions: lakes, rivers and streams, wilderness and national forests. Activities include: fishing, biking (wish I brought my mtn bike), hiking/walking and ATV trails."

    8. Timber Mesa Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    2 miles

    "Easy to get to, close to town, clearly marked trails and roadways. Hiking views were spectacular."

    9. Los Burros Campground

    3 Reviews
    McNary, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 360-5111

    "Los Burros was a beautiful little spot, tucked away in the pines near Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ. There are at least two camping spots that include a fenced in area for your horses to stay."

    "There was a corral near one of the sites for horses. On the way in we passed an entire heard of cattle right next to the road. There is also 2 historic buildings from the ranger station."

    10. Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res

    6 Reviews
    Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 338-1230

    "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."

    "Hawley Lake is the perfect escape when you want to get out of the heat. Pristine views, cool weather during the summer and clean facilities almost make you feel like your not in Arizona anymore."

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Recent Camping Photos near Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ

90 Photos of 137 Pinetop-Lakeside Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ

306 Reviews of 137 Pinetop-Lakeside Campgrounds

  • M
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Diamond Creek Number Two Campground

    Drove to campground

    We followed directions via Dyrt map down Indian Rt 61. There were no signs. The road became primitive and once we reached the destination via map, still no signs. We turned around and headed back toward the highway. Cannot review this campground, don’t know if it exists -but at least provide some info.

  • Mary Ann H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Los Burros Campground

    Pretty Quiet, best in Fall

    We love this campground.  Small, usually not full - we have been here summer and Fall, and only one night have we seen it full.  Easy roads but pretty basic, fire pits, table and clean vault toilet.  The elk come in in the fall and are delightfully noisy so if you have trouble sleeping this won't be your gig. Excellent trail system for hikes and mountain bikes and a trailhead right at the campground. 

    There is a camp host but site is free.  Dispersed camping nearby if you want more solitude.

  • Rene F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts

    Lots of spots with slabs to the left looking at building.

    Was going to stay the night before, but needed a real bed. So I stopped this morning. It is tight next to south entrance of Petrified national forest.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 9, 2025

    Crystal Forest Campground

    Close to Petrified Forest

    We camped on the north side of the road. I believe there are four campsites that are pull through and maybe five or six campsites back in . $25 per night for electric. Only 30 amp. Sites were nice & level. Mary, the lady who runs the place, was very nice and accommodating. Only about 2 miles from the entrance to the national park.

  • R
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Crystal Forest Campground

    Easy access

    Wonderful option for people like us who got tired much earlier than expected and wanted to deviate from our original plan. Unbelievably gorgeous view of the sunrise, perfect pit stop on a longer journey

  • nThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 25, 2025

    Crystal Forest Campground

    Entrance to petrified forest

    Nice place has electric available. Not sure of amperage we did not need it. Picnic table level gravel parking

  • Richard H.
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    Fools Hallow Lake Park

    I've been enjoying this little "corner of Heaven" almost daily for five years.  In all that time, I have been consistently amazed at the level of effort and care the park staff, both permanent and volunteer, provide.  Two of the seasonal volunteers, Rodney & Marsha, provide awesome care to the park grounds, as well as interaction with visitors.  The staff...I've seen so many examples of dedication by every one of those individuals, whether "across the office counter or gate", or out in the field.  As the Park Manager put it, this Park is my baby, and it shows in the beautiful surroundings.

    Come visit...come stay.  Come enjoy a "part of creation" witnessed there with me!

Guide to Pinetop-Lakeside

Camping near Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A reviewer at Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground mentioned, "Bathrooms and showers are kept very clean."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer plenty of space between sites. One visitor at Aspen Campground said, "The site was lovely; we got one that made it so you did not feel in top of your neighbors."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A guest at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA shared, "The staff were friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. One family at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA enjoyed the "kid and doggo loved the amenities."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on children, especially near water. A reviewer at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground mentioned, "The grounds are gorgeous, lots of space around the lake."
  • Plan for Quiet Hours: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone has a good time. A camper at Aspen Campground noted, "Quiet hours 8pm-7am."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at OK RV Park said, "They took us to our site and it was huge."
  • Electric Hookups: Look for campgrounds with electric hookups if you need them. A reviewer at Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground appreciated the "ability to connect to electric."
  • Laundry Facilities: If you're staying longer, check for laundry options. A camper at OK RV Park mentioned, "The laundry area was clean and reasonable."

Camping around Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, whether you're in a tent or an RV. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there free camping options available in Pinetop-Lakeside?

Yes, there are free camping options near Pinetop-Lakeside for those seeking budget-friendly adventures. Timber Mesa Trailhead offers dispersed camping with established fire pits and flat spots for tents. While it's close to the highway (which quiets down at night), it provides basic primitive camping with interesting surroundings including some historic ruins. For a more secluded free camping experience, Los Burros Campground is tucked away in the pines near Pinetop-Lakeside. This beautiful spot even includes designated areas with fenced sections for those camping with horses, making it unique among free camping options in the region.

What are the best campgrounds in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona?

The Pinetop-Lakeside area offers exceptional camping experiences in Arizona's White Mountains. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground is widely considered one of the most beautiful campgrounds in Arizona, featuring spacious sites nestled among tall pines with excellent privacy between neighbors. The campground provides numerous amenities and offers lakeside camping with beautiful views. Another top option is Brook Char Campground, a smaller tent-only campground with large sites, multiple tent clearings, ample shade, and potable water. Both campgrounds provide excellent access to the natural beauty of the White Mountains while offering clean facilities and a true mountain camping experience.

What RV camping facilities are available near Pinetop-Lakeside?

RV campers have excellent options near Pinetop-Lakeside. Hon-Dah RV Park offers an excellent location near both Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low with amenities including WiFi, clean bathrooms, laundry facilities, and 24-hour security. For those 55 and older, Ponderosa RV Resort in Lakeside provides a peaceful adult-oriented camping experience. Other options include Elk Horn RV Park near Lakeside and Waltner's RV Resort near Show Low, both offering drive-in access with RV-friendly amenities. Many of these facilities are open year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the White Mountains in any season, though calling ahead for reservations is recommended, especially during peak summer months.

What activities can I enjoy while camping in Pinetop-Lakeside?

The Pinetop-Lakeside area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Fishing is a primary attraction at Horseshoe Cienega Apache Indian Res, a beautiful mountain lake about 45 minutes east of Pinetop-Lakeside that's perfect for both fishing and kayaking. Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate Cyclone Lake Campground, which is surrounded by dense forests and offers access to numerous trails through the Arizona mountains. Additional activities throughout the region include wildlife viewing, photography, mountain biking, horseback riding, and stargazing. In winter months, nearby areas offer snow activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making Pinetop-Lakeside a year-round outdoor recreation destination.

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