Christopher Creek Campground
Open for the 2026 season. Operating season runs April through October. Most sites are reservable via Recreation.gov; a few sites are first-come-first-served with on-site payment. 14-day stay limit.
Flood Watch issued August 31 at 2:34AM MST until September 1 at 12:00AM MST by NWS Flagstaff AZ
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...All of northern and central Arizona. * WHEN...Through this evening. * IMPACTS...Flash flooding will be possible in creeks, normally dry washes, swimming holes, and over recently burned areas. Raging killer currents will be possible in side canyons and narrow slot canyons. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue this afternoon and evening. With deep monsoonal moisture in place and already saturated soils in some locations, an elevated risk of flash flooding will be in place through Monday. - Additional information is available at weather.gov/flagstaff.
Canyon Lake Drawdown Public Safety Closure
Due to the Canyon Lake drawdown all recreational sites around Canyon Lake including the marina and the lakebed will be closed. Apache Trail (SR 88) will remain open.
Houston Mesa Area Clean-Up & Restoration Project Temporary Closure Order
Temporary Closure Order For Public Health and Safety of the Houston Mesa area.
About
Christopher Creek Campground is one of the most popular developed campgrounds on the Payson Ranger District, nestled along both sides of a spring-fed creek that flows below the Mogollon Rim. At 5,640 feet elevation, the campground provides relief from Arizona's desert heat while remaining accessible from the Phoenix metro area. The 43 individual sites and one group site are surrounded by ponderosa pines, junipers, oaks, and manzanita shrubs. The creek is stocked with rainbow trout each spring, and anglers can also find brook and brown trout. Three swimming holes provide refreshing spots after hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding in the area. Woods Canyon Lake and other Rim Country Lakes are about a 10-minute drive east, offering additional boating and fishing opportunities. The campground operates April through October. Most sites are reservable through Recreation.gov with reservations required at least 3 days in advance. A few first-come-first-served sites are available with payment at the on-site digital fee machine. The small town of Christopher Creek is a short drive away with restaurant options.
Directions
From Payson, Arizona, take Highway 260 east for 21 miles to the Christopher Creek Campground turnoff. Take Forest Road for 1/4 mile to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $24 - $80 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 22ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 22ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (928) 474-7900 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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