Within Apache National Forest, Big Lake Campground sits at 9,000 feet elevation alongside its namesake lake in the remote White Mountains. This US Forest Service facility accommodates RVs up to 24 feet with electric, water, and sewer hookups, plus tent sites accessible by driving, hiking, or walking in from nearby areas.
The campground spans multiple sections, with many sites positioned within walking distance of the lake's shoreline. Mike C. noted "several elk who wandered through camp in the early evening," while other wildlife includes blue jays, squirrels, and chipmunks. Vault toilets serve most areas, though some sites require longer walks to facilities. Flushing toilets with sinks are available in select restroom buildings.
Fishing draws many visitors to the lake, with boat rentals available at an on-site marina. Water spigots throughout the campground provide safe drinking water. A small store sells firewood, fishing supplies, and basic items. The elevation affects some visitors initially but provides cooler temperatures during Arizona's hot months. Ash C. observes that "many of the campsites are a quick walk away from the water" with "lots of opportunity to fish."
Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekends and holidays. The remote location means limited cell service and a significant drive from populated areas. Site conditions vary considerably - some are level while others feature rocky, uneven terrain with tree roots. Camp hosts are present during operating season. Sites accommodate large groups but restrict parking to two vehicles per site.
This high-elevation campground works well for anglers, families seeking cooler summer weather, and campers comfortable with remote locations and basic amenities.
Description
If getting completely away from it all and experiencing the outdoors for all it has to offer is your camping ideal then plan your camping vacation in the Big Lake Recreation Area. Big Lake itself is 575 acres, and makes a convenient base for other local lakes like Crescent Lake, Lee Valley Lake and the East and West Forks of the Black River. Choose your site from one of nine campgrounds and experience exceptional hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife viewing, and trout fishing. Campers have the convenience of paved roads, a dump station and showers, but no electric hookups. Apache Trout, the largest campground can accomodate RVs (max 45 feet) as well as in sections of Grayling Campground. Two campgrounds give tent campers the entire campground all to themselves. A visitor center and naturalist programs offer plenty of knowledge about the area.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBig Lake Campground is located in Arizona
Coordinates
33.87469114 N
109.41821375 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 4/3/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 30 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 hrs 30 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 4 hrs 54 min from Tucson, AZ
- 4 hrs 58 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
