Within Apache National Forest, Buffalo Crossing Campground provides access to the East Fork Black River and several nearby lakes for fishing enthusiasts. This US Forest Service site operates from May through October and includes drinking water, vault toilets, and trash service, though pets are not permitted.
The campground sits directly beside the river where small trout can be found, with Big Lake, Crescent Lake, and other fishing destinations within reach. Access requires navigating narrow, rough roads where off-highway vehicles travel at high speeds around corners. Recent bridge repairs temporarily closed the site, so campers should verify current availability before planning trips. For additional options, see campgrounds around Apache National Forest.
Description
At the southern end of the East Fork canyon is Buffalo Crossing Campground, an old Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) era site which actually boasts the largest campsites along the river.The East Fork meanders through the forested valley shaded by tall ponderosa pines and bordered by grasses, alders, and cottonwoods.__Campsites are located a few steps from the stream to protect the Black River's unique riparian zone, but access to the river is easy as the undergrowth serves more to enhance the river's picturesque nature than to obstruct easy passage.Click__here__for a map.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBuffalo Crossing Campground is located in Arizona
Directions
Directions from Alpine: Drive two miles north on US Highway 191 to Forest Road 249. Turn west and follow this wide, graveled forest road 5 miles to Forest Road 276. Turn south and follow Forest Road 276 for six miles to the East Fork Recreation Area.
Coordinates
33.791 N
109.358 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 51 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 5 hrs 1 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 5 hrs 4 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
- 5 hrs 6 min from Tucson, AZ









