Lyman Lake State Park Campground offers glamping close to St. Johns, Arizona at 6,000 feet elevation where summer temperatures typically range 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix. The White Mountains region creates a distinctive climate zone, with monsoon patterns bringing afternoon thunderstorms from July through September. Winter camping here means temperatures often drop below freezing at night.
What to do
Petroglyphs exploration: The hiking trail system at Big Lake Campground connects visitors with extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," reports Mike C., who visited with his family.
Fishing options: Multiple lakes within 45 minutes of St. Johns provide different fishing experiences. "Fishing was pretty bad, not one bite in 3 days," notes Jamey R. about their Lyman Lake experience, while William C. found that "Decent fishing, although the lake was flooded and murky while we were there, and we didn't give it the best shot."
Mountain biking: The surrounding forest roads near Rainbow Campground offer miles of scenic terrain. "I found the first non-motorized trail off the gravel Forest Service road by the lake. The trail teemed with wildlife. There were squirrels and chipmunks everywhere. I spotted a group of elk cows and later mule deer bucks," explains Jacob W.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Restrooms and showers at many area campgrounds receive positive feedback. "Bathrooms and showers are super clean and well maintained. There is only one designated bathhouse building so if you park far, you'll be walking a ways," notes Brodie D. about Lyman Lake State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The White Mountain region offers frequent wildlife sightings. At Brookchar Campground, Cyndi S. experienced "Elk, deer and plenty of skunks (who waddled thru the campsite but never raised their tails)."
Boat rentals: Several lakes offer watercraft options for visitors without their own equipment. "We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather," writes Mike C. about his Big Lake experience, which costs approximately $45-95 per day depending on boat type.
What you should know
Weather patterns: The White Mountains experience rapid weather changes, particularly in summer. "Rained a couple of hours each night but it lulls you right to sleep," notes Cyndi S. about camping at Brookchar, while another camper mentioned, "We saw highs close to 80 and lows in the high 30s/low 40s. Only sprinkled once!"
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between locations. "No internet service and poor phone reception (T-Mobile) which was a little issue for us as we are traveling cross country," reports Penélope F. about Lyman Lake, while William C. notes "T-mobile service was awful" at the same location.
Reservation requirements: Hawley Lake Apache Indian Reservation requires specific permits. "Be sure to get your fishing license and permits in town, it's a long drive into town from the lake," advises Christa D., who has made Hawley Lake her favorite escape from summer heat.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife preparation: Families should secure food properly overnight. "Bears frequent the area so you must lock up all food and trash in your car overnight," warns Kamala G. about Brookchar Campground, while another camper suggests "Bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows."
Site selection: Some campgrounds offer better family-friendly sites than others. At Rainbow Campground, one reviewer notes "The sites have plenty of space, shade, and privacy. Roads are paved and in good shape," while at Reservation Lake, Gerald R. points out "Tables and fire pit at most sites and some within walking distance to lake to fish."
Alternative accommodations: For families seeking glamping near St. Johns, Arizona without tent setup, cabins provide comfortable options. "The sites are large and well spaced," notes a camper about Hawley Lake, which offers both camping and cabin rentals.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Lyman Lake State Park offers the most comprehensive RV facilities in the area. "FHU available, spacious sites, wind does come up, clean restrooms and showers, has store well stocked (no tobacco or alcohol), fish cleaning station, blacktop roads, blacktop to park your rig," details Dave N., who appreciates the full hookup options.
Road conditions: Access to some of the more remote camping areas can be challenging. "The dirt washboard road getting in (45 mins) was enough for me to not love this place," warns Candy P. about Reservation Lake, suggesting travelers with larger rigs or those towing trailers should research access routes carefully.
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations impact RV camping comfort. "We lived in Phoenix, and it was 115 when we left the big city. Five hours later we found ourselves camped at 9100 feet, enjoying the cool temps in the mid 60's and the passing rain showers," describes Rod D. about his Rainbow Campground experience.
