Dispersed camping near St. Johns, Arizona provides varied options in northeastern Arizona's high plateau region. Most camping sites sit between 5,500-6,500 feet elevation, creating a distinctive transition zone where desert vegetation meets coniferous forest elements. Camping opportunities include both dispersed sites along forest roads and established campgrounds with varying amenity levels, with access conditions changing seasonally due to monsoon impacts and winter precipitation.
What to do
Explore petroglyphs and hiking trails: At Lyman Lake State Park Campground, visitors can access well-maintained trails showcasing ancient rock art. "There is a rock squeeze in the trail too," notes Jessica S., who visited the petroglyph area. Another camper mentioned, "The petroglyphs were awesome with some nice hiking trails."
Wildlife viewing: Concho Lake attracts various wildlife species, making it ideal for nature observation. "There were lots of cattle free range grazing around the lake," reports Monte W. At Concho Lake Recreation Area, campers regularly spot "prairie dogs and bunnies galore, which was a nice bonus," according to Abby M.
Stargazing: The dark skies in this region create excellent stargazing conditions. "At night it is beautifully dark," reports a camper at Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts. Dave N. from Lyman Lake notes you can enjoy "nice viewing of stars at night" due to minimal light pollution in the area.
What campers like
Lake access: Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground receives high marks for its water features. "The lake is within walking distance and can be seen from most spots on west side of loop," says Melissa S. Another camper noted, "There is a nice trail to hike around the lake. Dogs are allowed on it."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms were close to our camp site. Convenient to go at night since it had lights to lead the way. Also had a chance to shower in a clean bathroom," shares Cristina G. about Fool Hollow Lake. At Lyman Lake, Dave N. reports "clean restrooms and showers" and "fish cleaning station" among the amenities.
Spacious sites: Springerville RV Park offers "very nice pull through down the middle and equally spacious back in on both sides." Charles K. notes, "The spots are big and spread out." At Fool Hollow, campsites feature "widely spaced sites, great views of the lake and excellent facilities."
What you should know
Wind conditions: The St. Johns area frequently experiences strong winds. At Concho lake, Twan M. notes it's "WINDY" despite being "great, great free camping." Another camper at Lyman Lake mentioned, "Wind does come up" and can affect camping and fishing.
Cell service varies: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. At Crystal Forest, one camper reports, "Good Verizon!" while at Springerville RV Park, a visitor notes, "Verizon 5G is strong but slowish." Penélope F. at Lyman Lake experienced "no internet service and poor phone reception (T-Mobile)."
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially in milder seasons. For Fool Hollow Lake, Melissa S. advises, "Highly advise making a reservation at least 6 months ahead of time." Springerville RV Park operates on a different system: "Still runs on your hand shake is your word you will be here and she will have spot saved for you."
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-use recreation options: Desert Falcon Ranch, LLC provides varied activities for family members. "A peaceful place to think your thoughts, go on walks, listen to wildlife, look at wildflowers and read a book," notes Judy L., making it suitable for families seeking nature-based activities.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting comfort with outdoor access, cabins provide good alternatives. At Lyman Lake, Eny O. reports, "Stayed at Elk Cabin for 2 nights. Cabins are very nice and clean." The park offers "quiet, cabins, tent sites, FHU available, beach camping" according to Dave N.
Check for bathroom proximity: When camping with children, bathroom access becomes crucial. At Fool Hollow, one camper stayed "right across from the bathroom," calling it a "fantastic camping area." Another mentions bathrooms with "lights to lead the way" for nighttime convenience.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: At Springerville RV Park, Craig & Linda L. note, "The whole campground is graded level with fresh gravel each spring. Which makes it nice to park and to get level you just have to raise or lower your tongue jack as the case may be!"
Electric hookup options: For power needs, check specific amenities. At Lyman Lake, Dave N. reports, "FHU available" and "some pull thru site, mostly back ins." Karla D. appreciated Springerville RV Park's layout: "Great wide turns, clear signage" making it suitable for larger rigs.
Weather preparation: RVers should prepare for seasonal conditions. "Because this place does get snow in the winters. Don't want the water pipes to freeze," notes a camper about Springerville RV Park's water system design. At Desert Falcon Ranch, "It can be very windy and fierce storms at times, especially in monsoon season. Go prepared for any weather."
