On Arizona State Trust Land, The Lake offers free dispersed camping around two ponds accessible via a gated dirt road. Campers need a $20 annual Public Lands Trust permit to enter the area. The rocky, unimproved road requires high clearance vehicles and extends 1.5 miles to the main pond, with yellow ribbon markers helping with navigation.
Recent visitors report conflicts over camping proximity to the water features, with local ranchers claiming a quarter-mile restriction from the ponds. The area sees regular use for both camping and recreational shooting. Two portable toilets sit near the gate, though their condition varies. Campers can build fires and bring pets, but must pack out all trash as no services exist on-site.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsThe Lake is located in Arizona near Vail
Coordinates
31.91136073 N
110.691099 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/8/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 6/8/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if The Lake - Dispersed Camping needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 20 min from Tucson, AZ
- 45 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
- 2 hrs 14 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 18 min from Prescott Valley, AZ









