Dispersed camping near Show Low, Arizona offers access to high-elevation forests typically ranging from 6,000-8,000 feet above sea level. The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest surrounding this eastern Arizona town provides numerous primitive camping options with varying seasonal access. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during day and 50-60°F at night, while winter brings frequent snow closures to higher elevation sites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Carnero Spring Road: This area features a clearing by a small lake where campers report seeing diverse wildlife. One camper noted, "Some traffic came through but not bothersome. No amenities, must be self-contained."
High-elevation hiking at Beehive Spring Camp: Located at 9,200 feet elevation, this site offers hiking through diverse forest types. A visitor mentioned, "Nice couple of sites with a variety of trees not just Ponderosa Pine," though they warned about "logging trucks noisy during the day."
ATV riding at Dutch's Tank: The back section of this area features extensive off-road opportunities. A camper enthusiastically shared, "In the back of this area is a huge ATV/Moto-x like course. Great hills and tracks!!"
What campers like
Dark skies at Dutch's Tank: This area provides excellent night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. A camper described it as having "Easy Access, Dark and Secluded" and noted despite being near a road "so few cars pass here I rarely noticed."
Cool summer temperatures at National Forest Road 117C: The high elevation provides relief from Arizona heat. One visitor shared, "Only a couple logging trucks on a very nice maintained road. All alone on a mountain top!! Me and my dog are living the life!"
Wildlife encounters at Concho Lake: Located about 25 miles from Show Low, this area offers wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper observed, "There's prairie dogs and bunnies galore, which was a nice bonus. Clean porti potties and decent AT&T signal."
What you should know
Seasonal road conditions on National Forest Road 117C: This area becomes difficult to access during certain times. A camper warned, "Don't try to make it to the shared coordinates soon after a snow melt. Grateful for our GoTreads. Road is rocky and rutted in places but there are camp spots 2wd can access if one takes it slow."
Hunting season impacts: During fall hunting seasons, many dispersed camping areas see increased traffic and competition for sites.
Concho Lake water levels: The water level at Concho Lake fluctuates significantly. A camper reported, "The lake is now more marsh with abundant bird life. A gas station / convenience store is across the street. Good Verizon!"
Tips for camping with families
Convenience store access at Concho Lake: Families can access basic supplies without a long drive. A camper mentioned, "Decent, safe overnight. Dirt lot with turnouts with shrubs and pines offering decent privacy and quiet. There are cement pads for vans or smaller RVs in some spots, and fire pits."
Winter activities at Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts: This area offers snow play opportunities during winter months. A visitor noted, "Cute gift shops, lots to buy if your into that kind of thing. The rv park looked flat and decently maintained."
Group camping options on Rim Road: This area accommodates larger family gatherings. A regular visitor explained, "You can camp in groups or in smaller clusters. There are places to get away from the main roads and places near the roads for those with toys."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Rim Road: This area offers numerous options for larger vehicles. An RVer advised, "There are a lot of dispersed camping sites here. Most of them are very easy to get to even with big rv's or trailers. Maintained roads all the way through."
RV-friendly spaces at Dutch's Tank: This area accommodates larger rigs with easy access. A camper reported, "Nice place, wide open views, easy access for Truck/rv. Almost no vz internet. Very clean, very little trash. Good dispersed camping."
Generator use considerations: Most dispersed camping areas near Show Low have no noise restrictions, but respecting quiet hours (typically 10 PM - 6 AM) is standard practice for generator use.
