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Big Lake at Grayling Campground, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Open

Open for the 2026 season. Stage 1 Fire Restrictions are in effect through September 30, 2026, limiting fires to Forest Service-provided fire structures only. No potable water available on-site. Opening and closing dates are weather-dependent.

Flood Watch issued July 21 at 4:04AM MST until July 21 at 10:00PM MST by NWS Flagstaff AZ

4:04 AM — 10:00 PM

* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Yavapai County, Coconino County, northern Gila County, Navajo County, central and southern Apache County. * WHEN...From 11 AM MST /noon MDT/ this morning 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... - Deep monsoon moisture in place across northern Arizona will lead to storms capable of producing rainfall in excess of 2 inches per hour, resulting in an enhanced risk of flash flooding. - Additional information is available at weather.gov/flagstaff.

About

Grayling Campground offers the most secluded sites in the Big Lake Recreation Area, nestled in a mixed conifer and aspen forest at 9,000 feet in Arizona's White Mountains. All 23 sites are arranged along a single loop, with some offering views of 450-acre Big Lake, though none sit directly on the waterfront. The high elevation provides cool summer temperatures and a welcome respite from lower desert heat. Big Lake is one of Arizona's top fishing destinations, supporting rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout. Beyond fishing, the area is popular for hiking, mountain biking, birding, and wildlife viewing. A visitor center offers educational programs. Campers should be prepared for cool nighttime temperatures and occasional summer thunderstorms. Each site includes a fire ring, grill, and picnic table. Flush toilets are on-site, but no potable water is available. A dump station, showers, and camp store with gas, food, boat rentals, and firewood are located approximately one mile away. Bears frequent the area; food storage regulations are strictly enforced.

Directions

From Show Low, take Highway 260 east for 42 miles to Highway 273. Take Highway 273 south for 30 miles to the Big Lake Recreation Area on the west side. From Eagar, go 5 miles west on State Route 260, turn south on State Route 261 for 29 miles to State Route 273, then west about 3 miles to the Big Lake Recreation Area.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $34

Vehicle

Max RV Length 45ft
Max Trailer Length 45ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (928) 537-8888

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

Big Lake at Grayling Campground, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
View of site 14 at Grayling Campground
Grayling Campground Entrance and Sign
Grayling Campground Entrance Gate and Information Kiosk
View of site 20 at Grayling Campground
Grayling Campground Fee Information
Grayling Campground Information Kiosk with view of Big Lake
Big Lake at Grayling Campground, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Grayling Campground, one of various water sources
Grayling Campground Restrooms
Grayling Waste Disposal Units

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