Camping sites near Whiteriver, Arizona offer diverse terrain at higher elevations ranging from 6,300 to 9,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature variations with overnight lows often dropping 30-40 degrees below daytime highs, even during summer months. Winter accessibility becomes limited for many camping areas with snow accumulation beginning as early as October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Cyclone Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy a peaceful fishing experience. "Cyclone Lake (Basin?) is nestled in the Arizona mountains and offers a breathtaking escape into nature. The basin is surrounded by dense forests on all sides and provides a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts," notes one camper.
Water-based activities: Big Lake Campground offers boat rentals for anglers wanting to explore the lake. "We rented a boat from the marina and spent about 3 hours fishing. Perfect weather," shares a visitor who stayed with family. The recreation area includes multiple campgrounds with various access points to the water.
Wildlife viewing: Early evenings at Big Lake provide excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "We saw blue jays, squirrels, chipmunks, as well as several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," reports one camper. Morning hours typically offer the best chance to spot elk grazing near camping areas.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: The higher elevation camping spots provide relief from summer heat. At Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res, campers appreciate the climate. "We have rented a cabin every August and the weather is wonderful. Some rain but very green and lovely outdoors," shares one regular visitor who gives the area five stars.
Lake views: Show Low Lake Campground receives consistent praise for its setting. "The camping spots are large and clean. The bathrooms are always clean and the showers are hot. There is a biking/hiking trail around the lake that we love to spend time on," describes a repeat visitor who considers it among their top three campgrounds overall.
Natural surroundings: Ponderosa pine forests create distinctive camping experiences unique to the region. "The whole area: Show Low, Lakeside & Pinetop are all blessed with friendly and courteous people. It's almost like somehow they have sprinkled LOVE and PEACE in the air," reports an anniversary visitor to the area.
What you should know
Tribal permits required: Most recreation on White Mountain Apache lands requires specific permits with separate fees for camping and fishing activities. "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," reports a visitor attempting to find Diamond Creek Number Two Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for unexpected animal visitors at campsites throughout the region. "FYI - be sure to put food away nightly, the cows are no joke... They get into everything!!!" warns a Hawley Lake camper. Another mentions, "Be aware that I did experience some free range cattle snooping through the camp at 2am which was a bit unexpected."
Limited cell service: Communication capabilities vary significantly by location. One camper at Show Low Lake notes, "We made the mistake of visiting here on a holiday weekend. At other times I suspect this is a decent place, but this particular weekend was chaos and everything was broken/dirty."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: At Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground, campers recommend specific loops. "The entire Mallard loop has generous paved sites. There is a picnic table and nice fire pit. Plenty of paved space to set up. Pines surround each site and provide ample shade," notes a visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the animal encounters common in the area. "Fishing was on point this Labor Day holiday," reports one Hawley Lake camper who also warns about nighttime bovine visitors to their site.
Weather preparation: Pack clothing layers for significant temperature changes. "Being in the mountains, it was pretty cold at night," reports a camper who stayed at Hawley Lake while fishing at a nearby location. Even summer nights can drop into the 40s in this higher elevation region.
Tips from RVers
Campground amenities: Hon-Dah RV Park provides full hookups with proximity to tribal enterprises. "Excellent location near Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low. Easy check-in. Wifi available. Clean bathrooms. Laundry available. Wonderful hosts. 24 hour security driving around," shares a reviewer who appreciated the facilities and location.
Road considerations: Access to many camping areas involves unpaved routes. "The speed humps in this place are MONSTERS! We had to crab over them so that we didn't leave our plumbing with them," warns an RV owner about navigating Ponderosa RV Resort. Similar caution should be exercised on forest roads leading to less developed sites.
Seasonal availability: Higher elevation campgrounds have limited accessibility in colder months. At Big Lake Campground, one visitor notes, "We paid $20 a night. There are water spigots throughout the campground and the water is safe and tasty to drink." The water systems at many campgrounds are shut down during freezing weather.
