Best Campgrounds near Show Low, AZ

Show Low in Arizona has many different camping spots to choose from. Aspen Campground draws hikers who like the quiet forest trails. OK RV Park gets good reviews for its helpful staff and useful facilities for RV travelers. At Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area, you can fish and watch wildlife in a quiet setting. Lyman Lake State Park Campground has big campsites and easy access to the water for swimming and boating. Families often pick Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground for its clean facilities and nice views of the lake. Remember to keep food secure while camping here to keep wildlife away. Deer and raccoons live in this area, so you need to take some safety steps. Weather can change quickly here, with big differences between daytime and nighttime temperatures. You can take day trips to the Grand Canyon or Sonoran Desert from Show Low. The campgrounds around Show Low work well for both quiet camping and more active outdoor trips.

Best Camping Sites Near Show Low, Arizona (146)

    1. Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground

    45 Reviews
    Show Low, AZ
    2 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
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-4126

    $18 - $150 / night

    "Awesome Low key campground that's next to Show Low Lake. 30 amp service in some spots, no water or sewage but there is a dump station and water fill station on premises."

    "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)."

    3. Encore Venture In

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

    "This park is located in the forest area of Show Low, AZ.  At this time, the amenities (due to COVID 19), except for the laundry room, are closed so was unable to give it a 5 star rating. "

    "They do not have a pool or hot tub but will give a free pass to the Show Low aquatic center for use. We has a FHU site on a level, rock pad. "

    4. Elk Horn RV Park

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

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

    5. Waltner's RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    5 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"

    6. K-Bar RV Resort

    1 Review
    Show Low, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 537-2886

    7. Timber Mesa Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    7 miles

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

    8. GreatSky CampRanch Show Low AZ

    1 Review
    Show Low, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 981-2267

    $40 - $85 / night

    9. Ponderosa RV Resort

    2 Reviews
    Pinetop-Lakeside, AZ
    10 miles
    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."

    10. Hon-Dah RV Park

    4 Reviews
    McNary, AZ
    15 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)."

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Recent Reviews near Show Low, AZ

419 Reviews of 146 Show Low Campgrounds


  • M
    Sep. 5, 2025

    larson ridge dispersed camping

    Free Dispersed camping

    Lovely area with multiple large campsites along the road. No amenities. Was able to pull our 27ft trailer in. There’s a little general store just a few minutes up the highway and a town about 20 minutes away if needed.

  • 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.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 8, 2025

    Sun Valley RV Park

    Really nice park

    The owners and staff here is really friendly, great location as they are conveniently located right off the interstate, and yet still fairly quiet.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2025

    OK RV Park

    Nice place, friendly and helpful.

    Long full service sites, multiple sewer connectors along the sites, picnic table, playground, laundry, clubhouse, nice showers.

  • 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


Guide to Show Low

Camping near Show Low, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing at Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground. One visitor mentioned, "Clean site overlooking body of water. Gentle breeze. No bugs." This spot is perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around Aspen Campground. A reviewer said, "You are a short walk from the lake and a few other trails," making it a great base for hiking adventures.
  • Wildlife Watching: Campers at Carr Lake Campground have spotted deer and other wildlife. One camper shared, "If you hike deep into the woods, you will see deer."

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers at Lyman Lake State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "Bathrooms and showers are super clean and well maintained."
  • Spacious Sites: Many enjoy the roomy campsites at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA. One reviewer mentioned, "Campsites were wide and level," which is great for families and larger groups.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpful staff at OK RV Park. A guest said, "The staff were very friendly and making a reservation was easy."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area, lack amenities. A camper warned, "No amenities, located near the Rim. Peaceful and quiet."
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at McHood Park Campground noted, "By Saturday there wasn't a free open spot anywhere."
  • Road Conditions: Accessing some campgrounds may require navigating rough roads. A camper shared about Carr Lake Campground, "The main road is a good well-maintained dirt/gravel road."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites, like Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground. A family shared, "We had the most beautiful view of the lake and plenty of wide open space for my kids to explore!"
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have activities planned. One reviewer at Aspen Campground mentioned, "Great place for families, good restrooms and plenty of water spickets."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can keep everyone happy. A camper at Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA enjoyed the "delicious breakfast with a good variety."

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."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check campgrounds like Lyman Lake State Park Campground, which offers "FHU available."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area noted, "Nights were rowdy. This place feels like the Wild West."

Camping near Show Low, Arizona, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Show Low, AZ?

Fool Hollow Lake Recreation Area Campground is widely considered one of the best campgrounds in the Show Low area. Nestled among pine and juniper trees, it offers spacious sites with good separation between neighbors. The campground features a variety of options from tent sites to full hookup RV spots, all with beautiful views of the lake. Show Low Lake Campground is another excellent option, offering a more low-key experience right next to Show Low Lake. This year-round campground provides 30 amp electrical service at some sites and remains accessible during winter with snow plowing services. Both campgrounds offer water recreation opportunities and proximity to town amenities.

Where can I find camping near Show Low that's close to hiking trails?

FR 171 Campground offers dispersed camping with excellent access to the surrounding forest and trails. This area features spacious sites with plenty of separation, making it ideal for hikers looking for quick trail access. Benny Creek Campground is another excellent option for hikers, especially during busy holiday weekends when other campgrounds fill up. The surrounding White Mountains region offers extensive trail systems through pine forests and around lake shores, with many trails accessible directly from these campgrounds. Both locations provide a more natural, less developed camping experience while still being relatively close to Show Low's amenities.

Can I make reservations for Show Low Lake Campground?

Yes, reservations are available for Show Low Lake Campground. This year-round campground offers 30 amp electrical service at select sites, though water and sewer hookups are not available. The campground does provide a dump station and water fill station on the premises for camper use. Show Low Lake Campground is maintained during winter months with snow plowing services to ensure accessibility. To secure your spot, especially during peak summer season or holidays, it's recommended to make reservations well in advance through the official reservation system. The campground's proximity to the lake makes it a popular choice for fishing and water recreation activities.

What RV parks are available in Show Low, Arizona?

Hon-Dah RV Park offers an excellent location near Pinetop-Lakeside and Show Low with easy check-in procedures, clean bathrooms, laundry facilities, WiFi, and 24-hour security. Elk Horn RV Park provides a convenient location between Show Low and Pinetop with good highway access. Encore Venture In features wide sites for RVs in a forested setting within Show Low, offering a central location to area attractions. For those seeking a 55+ community, Ponderosa RV Resort in nearby Lakeside provides a quieter atmosphere. Most of these RV parks offer full hookups, though amenities may vary by season.