Arizona / Apache County / Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests

Grayling

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from mid-May through mid-October with paid reservations. No-fee camping is available mid-October through mid-May when weather permits, though facilities may be limited.

About

Grayling Campground offers perhaps the most secluded camping experience in the Big Lake Recreation Area in eastern Arizona's White Mountains. Located at 9,000 feet elevation along the shoreline of 450-acre Big Lake, the campground features 23 sites arranged in a single loop within a scenic mixed conifer and aspen forest. The forest includes ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, spruce, and aspen trees providing ample shade during pleasant summer days. Big Lake is renowned as one of Arizona's premier trout fishing destinations, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout being the most sought-after species. The recreation area offers extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, birding, and wildlife viewing. Some campsites offer views of the lake, though none are directly waterfront. Summer temperatures are cool and comfortable, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat below, though visitors should prepare for cool nighttime temperatures and occasional summer thunderstorms. The campground features flush toilets, fire rings, grills, and picnic tables at each site. A dump station and shower facilities are located one mile away. A nearby store offers gas, food, boat rentals, and firewood. The area is popular for wildlife viewing, and bears frequent the region, so proper food storage is required. Springerville, Arizona is the closest town for additional supplies and services.

Directions

From Pinetop, Arizona, take Highway 260 east 25 miles to Highway 273 south. Follow Highway 273 south 19 miles to Forest Road 8115 (Big Lake Entrance). Turn right and travel 2 miles. Grayling is on the left.

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