Williams, Arizona camping areas sit at 7,000 feet elevation, offering respite from summer desert heat with temperatures typically 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix. The region experiences seasonal closures from October through April due to winter conditions, with early summer providing optimal camping weather. Forest roads around Williams can become impassable during monsoon season (July-August) when afternoon thunderstorms create muddy conditions.
What to do
Fishing at White Horse Lake: This smaller lake 11 miles from Williams provides a quieter alternative to more crowded fishing spots. "The lake is pretty and all sites seem to have decent views of it. The campground is close to area activities, however nice enough to stay at exclusively," notes one Kaibab National Forest Kaibab Lake Campground visitor.
Ride the Grand Canyon Railway: Campers staying at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park can directly access the historic train. "We came to ride the Grand Canyon Railroad, the RV check-in was liking Clarity on how we completed our check-in for the train to the Grand Canyon. We had to figure the check-in process on our own," mentions one camper, suggesting asking about check-in procedures upon arrival.
Stargazing: The dark skies around Williams provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. "Incredible star gazing at night. The water flows making it easy to sleep. Ran into a couple of deer and elk," reports a visitor at Dogtown Lake, noting the combination of nature sounds and celestial views.
Explore Route 66 in Williams: The historic downtown is just minutes from most campsites. A camper at Railside RV Ranch shared, "Backed up to a lovely green space and dog walk. Railroad is for the Grand Canyon Excursion train. 9:35 in the AM it leaves, 5:45 in the PM it returns. Everyone goes outside and waves."
What campers like
Secluded forest sites: Many dispersed camping areas offer privacy not found at developed campgrounds. A camper at Garland Prairie Rd Dispersed Camping noted, "As I came in there seemed to be allot of fellow campers, but the further back I drove the less people I came across. Until I came to a spot with no other campers around."
Vault toilets better than expected: Multiple reviews mentioned clean vault toilets at forest service campgrounds. A visitor to White Horse Lake Campground commented, "The park hosts are friendly and keep the vault toilets very clean. They don't smell like vault toilets at all."
Close to multiple attractions: The strategic location allows for day trips. "This is a great jump-off spot to see the grand canyon or the sights in historic Williams az and route 66," explains a camper staying at Garland Prairie Road.
Affordability of dispersed camping: Free camping options abound in Kaibab National Forest. "Easy access off of Hwy 64. Good road in, drove past several sites, thought we could find something further in. Lots of closed areas further in and cut trees. Found a large pull off with a great fire pit," reports one camper.
What you should know
Winter elevation challenges: At 7,000 feet, Williams experiences significant winter snowfall and freezing temperatures. A tent camper at Grand Canyon-Williams KOA warned, "Any where that's not inside is great, but it was more of a high desert terrain than woodlands like I was hoping, however that was my error for not looking into it more. They provide a small heater for the cabins, so if you go during the winter season be sure to bring warm clothes and warm blankets!"
Road conditions to White Horse Lake: The dirt access road deters some visitors. "One of the best national park campgrounds we've ever been to. But getting here was 10 miles of pure hell. The absolute worst road ever. Worse than any boondocking site we've ever been to," reports one camper, adding "Nice place but will not endure that road again to stay here."
Forest road washboard: Seasonal conditions impact road quality. A camper at White Horse Lake noted, "Spent 5 nights in June, 2020. Weather was great. Lake was nice, and the fish were biting!! There were a lot of Elk. The road in is 11 miles of washboard, dirt roads."
Rocky soil for tent staking: Several campgrounds feature hard, rocky soil. A visitor to Dogtown Lake Campground And Group advised, "Most of the sites are very rocky and it was hard to securely peg anything into the ground. Overall, would not recommend this campsite for tents due to the hard ground."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities at KOA: The Williams-Circle Pines KOA offers multiple family amenities. "We have camped here many times and always have a great experience! This campground is super family friendly with a park, jumping pillow, small train ride, crafts, movie nights, a pool and more!" shares an enthusiastic family camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Younger visitors enjoy aquatic wildlife. "You can't swim in the lake, but our kids love catching frogs and crawdads," notes a White Horse Lake visitor, providing a natural alternative to swimming.
Quiet campgrounds for family relaxation: Some camping areas offer more serene experiences. A camper at Kaibab Lake noted, "I went during the week and found it lightly filled," suggesting weekday visits for more tranquility with children.
Weather precautions with children: The elevation means cooler temperatures even in summer. "Gets buggy in morning and dusk," warns a White Horse Lake camper, suggesting families bring insect repellent for comfort during peak mosquito hours.
Tips from RVers
Level sites for larger rigs: Many forest campsites accommodate bigger RVs without difficulty. "Very wide lightly rutted dirt roads. It's April 10th today and not as muddy as you would expect. Lots and lots of spaces. I came here in the dark in a 35' class pulling a jeep and found a spot no issues," reports a visitor to Kaibab National Forest.
Water and dump services: Full hookups aren't available at all campgrounds, but alternatives exist. "FYI.. we got water and dump from the Grand Canyon Railroad RV Park in Williams... it was $8 for Water, $10 to Dump... you can do either or both...very nice people!!" advises an RVer who stayed at dispersed sites.
Site selection for larger units: Specific sites work better for bigger rigs. "Kaibab Lake Campground, was a great find. Very friendly camp hosts, we didn't have reservations and they were helpful in contacting hosts in different loops and held a site for us. Well paved roads around the Kaibab lake, flat paved site, drive way backed in our 35' trailer without a problem," shares an experienced RVer.
