Tent camping sites near Vernon, Arizona span across diverse forest terrain within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest and nearby Apache Reservation lands. The area sits at elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,200 feet, creating distinct microclimates throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures generally reach 70-85°F during daytime hours but can drop below 40°F at night, particularly at higher elevation sites like Beehive Spring Camp.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Shush Bezahze campground provides convenient lake access where campers can fish for trout and other native species. According to one visitor, this campground offers "easy access to lake, wildlife. Close to town but far enough that it feels like your way out."
Wildlife observation: Beehive Spring Camp attracts diverse wildlife due to its varied forest composition. One camper notes, "Nice couple of sites with a variety of trees not just Ponderosa Pine." The mixed forest habitat supports different bird and mammal species than pure pine stands found at other nearby camping areas.
Hunting access: During hunting seasons, several campgrounds serve as base camps for licensed hunters. Cooley Lake Campground is primarily restricted, with one reviewer cautioning, "Tribe members only." Non-tribal hunters should verify permit requirements before selecting sites on reservation land.
What campers like
Natural seclusion: Brown Creek Campground offers a genuinely primitive camping experience with minimal development. A camper reports, "If you didn't know it was here you wouldn't ever guess there was a campground. The only signage is a 'dead out' fire sign." This makes it ideal for those seeking genuine isolation.
Higher elevation camping: Beehive Spring Camp sits at approximately 9,200 feet, providing cooler temperatures during summer months. A camper notes, "At 9200 ft elevation got cold at night in September," making this location particularly valuable during hotter periods.
Accessible boondocking: Shush Bezahze offers a balance between amenities and wilderness experience. One camper describes it as "Boondocking at its finest! Quiet, large campground, easy access to lake, wildlife." The campground provides drinking water and toilet facilities while maintaining a remote feel.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most Apache Reservation camping areas require permits for non-tribal members. Cooley Lake has the most restrictive access, with one camper reporting simply, "Tribe members only."
Limited amenities: Most camping areas around Vernon lack basic facilities. Brown Creek Campground exemplifies this, with a camper noting, "There are very few fire rings established so plan to build your own. There are no bathrooms so plan accordingly."
Extreme darkness: Forest canopy creates unusually dark conditions after sunset. At Brown Creek, a camper experienced: "We went on a moonless night and it PITCH BLACK. I know it was overcast but I have to imagine with the amount of tree coverage even a clear night wouldn't be very well lit on the ground."
Noise considerations: Industrial activity affects some sites seasonally. At Beehive Spring Camp, one camper reported, "Logging trucks noisy during the day," though nights remained quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Brown Creek Campground has limited space for groups. A visitor cautions, "I wouldn't call this ideal for larger groups or units. There were only a few spots where I think you could have parked more than 2 tents or anything larger than a pop up camper."
Water availability: Concho Lake Recreation Area provides access to water recreation without potable water on site. Families should bring all drinking water needed for their stay, particularly during warmer months when dehydration risks increase.
Safety considerations: The dense forest creates navigation challenges. One Brown Creek camper advises, "Plenty of trees and shade. Very secluded but the roads on the way in from both Show Low and McNary were in decent shape." Families should arrive during daylight hours to establish camp before nightfall.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most Vernon area campgrounds accommodate only smaller rigs. A Brown Creek camper notes sites couldn't fit "anything larger than a pop up camper," making advance scouting essential for RV campers.
Elevation considerations: Concho Lake Recreation Area sits at a lower elevation than other Vernon area campgrounds, potentially offering more moderate temperatures during spring and fall camping seasons.
Boondocking preparation: Due to limited facilities, RVers should arrive fully self-contained. At Shush Bezahze, the amenities include "drinking-water, fires-allowed, pets-allowed, picnic-table, toilets, trash" but lack hookups or dump stations, requiring careful water and waste management.
