Aspen Campground - East Fork Black River
05 reviewsForest Road 276, East Fork Recreation Area, Alpine, AZ
Aspen Campground - East Fork Black River
$7.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Per Camp Unit per night costs $14; an additional camp unit also costs $14. Interagency/Senior discounts reduce the fee to $7 per night.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil waters of the East Fork of the Black River, Aspen Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. Towering Ponderosa pines and graceful hardwoods create a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns across the forest floor. This cozy mountain retreat features compact sites perfect for those seeking a genuine backcountry experience, though adventurers with smaller RVs and trailers will find select spots to call home for the night.
Aspen Campground is a rustic site catering primarily to tent and small vehicle campers. It is not equipped for large RV setups.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this serene spot remains quietly tucked away in the forest's memory, the land itself tells countless stories through its ancient pines and ever-flowing river.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain weather at Aspen Campground, where each season paints the landscape in dramatic new colors. Winter transforms the forest into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the pines and temperatures that invite cozy campfire gatherings. As spring arrives, the forest awakens under brilliantly clear skies, while summer brings gentle warmth perfect for riverside relaxation. Autumn showcases nature's grand finale with crisp air and golden light filtering through the changing leaves.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,780 feet above sea level, Aspen Campground offers a refreshing high-altitude retreat where the air is crisp and pure. This lofty elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer months, while winter visitors should come prepared for the mountain's snowy embrace and the magical silence that comes with fresh snowfall.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where the East Fork of the Black River meanders through a protected riparian paradise. Majestic Ponderosa pines stand sentinel alongside whispering alders and native hardwoods, their roots drinking from the crystal-clear mountain stream. Meadow grasses sway in the breeze, creating a tapestry of green that changes with the seasons. This carefully preserved ecosystem offers visitors front-row seats to nature's daily performance, from morning mist rising off the water to evening light painting the forest in gold.
Geological RegionHidden within a verdant valley of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Aspen Campground occupies a special pocket of Arizona's high country. This forested sanctuary showcases the region's diverse ecosystem, where mountain meadows meet riparian corridors, creating a unique habitat where Ponderosa pines tower above streamside alders and hardwoods. The East Fork of the Black River has carved this peaceful valley over millennia, creating the perfect backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are small, and only a few can accommodate large motor homes or travel trailers. The campground is better suited for smaller camping setups.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are located a few steps from the stream to protect the riparian zone and are spaced apart modestly, offering some privacy. However, the proximity to the river enhances the natural ambiance.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites located closer to the river might provide better views but also face accessibility challenges due to overgrowth.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- No specific limit mentioned
- sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limit stated.
Groups
Details about group camping accommodations, including capacity limits, are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are mainly small and located a few steps away from the river. Most sites cannot accommodate large motor homes or travel trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground remains open year-round, but potable water has been removed for the season as of October 15, 2024.
Reservation PlatformsNone; reservations are not available. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come-first-served basis. No specific information on the number of walk-up sites.
Cancellation PolicyFirst-come, first-served policy; reservation cancellation terms do not apply.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Aspen Campground offers recreational opportunities primarily focused on fishing and enjoying the natural scenery. The serene setting of the East Fork of the Black River is a key attraction.
Fishing
Fishing is available in the East Fork of the Black River. The river's picturesque setting enhances the fishing experience, though specific details about types of fish are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described, although seasonal changes may affect the usability of the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific information on fire policies is provided.
Hazards
General hazardsThe campground lacks potable water and restrooms, which could pose challenges for campers. Overgrowth at the river can hinder access, as mentioned in a user review.
Active alertsPotable water has been removed for the season as of October 15, 2024.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are located in Alpine, including a fire department and local medical services.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific information provided regarding trash and recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe East Fork of the Black River runs alongside the campground. While riparian access is protected, easy passage to the river is available through undergrowth.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention overgrowth near the river hindering access. One user highlighted that access to the river is not great due to overgrowth.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
Forest Road 276, East Fork Recreation Area, Alpine, AZ
Driving directionsFrom Alpine, drive two miles north on US Highway 191 to Forest Road 249. Turn west and follow this wide, graveled road 5 miles to Forest Road 276. Turn south and follow Forest Road 276 for six miles to the East Fork Recreation Area.
Access is via wide, graveled roads; Forest Road 249 and Forest Road 276 are accessible but may have seasonal challenges. Potable water has been removed for the season, which may further impact accessibility.Nearby places
Alpine (Approx. 13 miles), Greer (Approx. 30 miles), Springerville (Approx. 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
The nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are in Alpine, which is approximately 13 miles from the campground. Alpine has basic supplies and services.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Aspen Campground - East Fork Black River has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Aspen Campground are generally positive, with users appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. However, some reviewers have noted that access to the river can be obstructed by overgrowth.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the quiet, picturesque setting and the attractive camping environment. Examples include: 'Beautiful, mountain campground,' and 'Amazing camping. Had a blast.'
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of facilities, such as restrooms and potable water, is a concern for some campers. Additionally, one review mentions that access to the river can be challenging due to overgrowth.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Potential campers should bring their own water and plan for the absence of restroom facilities.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
There is no specific mention of seasonal variations in user experiences, though weather data suggests significant changes in conditions throughout the year.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Amazing camping. Had a blast.' - Pee Breezy
2. 'Beautiful, mountain camp ground.' - Marcia Larson
3. 'Beautiful area, but the access to the river from this campground is not great due to...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are highlighted in the reviews.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no comments or reviews that specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025