Black Canyon Rim Campground (Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
4.5962 reviewsP.O. Box 2337, Overgaard, AZ, 85933, USA
Black Canyon Rim Campground (Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Az)
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Recreation use fee is $20 per night. Fee includes one vehicle. Payment for a second vehicle ($12) is collected by the camp host. Only cash and check payment methods are accepted.
About this campground
Escape the crowds and discover Black Canyon Rim Campground, a hidden gem tucked away in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This intimate campground offers just 20 sites, creating a peaceful retreat where the scent of ponderosa pines fills the air and the sounds of nature replace city noise. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV (up to 40 feet), you'll find everything you need for a comfortable stay, including vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and regular trash service. Each site comes equipped with its own campfire ring, grill, and picnic table – perfect for those memorable outdoor meals and evening stories around the fire.
The campground supports a range of camping styles including tent and RV camping. Primitive camping features are highlighted, with minimal facilities available beyond basic amenities, setting it apart from dispersed camping in the area.
Historical SignificanceJust a short walk from your campsite lies a sobering reminder of the Old West's turbulent past. The grave site of Stott, Scott, and Wilson – three young men whose lives were tragically cut short during the infamous Pleasant Valley War – stands as a haunting memorial to one of America's bloodiest family feuds. This piece of Arizona history adds a layer of depth to your camping experience, inviting reflection on the dramatic events that unfolded in these peaceful woods over a century ago.
Weather and SeasonsThe towering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral overhead, offering welcome shade and cooler temperatures during summer months. While this pine canopy provides relief from the heat, be prepared for nature's dramatic moments – powerful wind storms can sweep through, reminding visitors of the raw beauty of high-country camping. As autumn transitions to winter and winter melts into spring, temperatures drop significantly, transforming the campground into a crisp, invigorating wilderness experience. The area's characteristic dry conditions make it ideal for stargazing, though occasional storms can roll through, painting the sky with dramatic clouds and bringing the fresh scent of rain-washed pine.
ElevationPerched high in Arizona's mountainous terrain, Black Canyon Rim sits at an elevation that can literally take your breath away. Visitors ascending from desert valleys and lower elevations should plan for a gradual adjustment period, allowing their bodies to adapt to the thinner mountain air. This lofty position rewards campers with crisp, clean air and a refreshing escape from the heat of lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a natural sanctuary where massive ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark and needle-carpeted floor creating an enchanting forest atmosphere. The campground's flat, sandy terrain makes for easy walking and comfortable tent placement, while the surrounding wilderness beckons with scenic drives and hidden trails waiting to be explored. Keep your camera ready for the area's most magical visitors – a wild horse herd that roams these forests, often making their way to nearby Black Canyon Lake for a drink. These majestic creatures, silhouetted against the forest backdrop, create unforgettable moments that epitomize the untamed beauty of Arizona's high country.
Geological RegionBlack Canyon Rim Campground rests within the expansive Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, where ancient ponderosa pines have claimed dominion over a surprisingly level landscape. This unique geological setting features sandy soils that tell the story of ages past, while the flat terrain – unusual for mountain camping – creates an accessible wilderness experience. The towering pines that define this region stand as living monuments, some centuries old, creating a natural architecture that frames your camping adventure in one of Arizona's most pristine forest environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available. The presence of a campground host can assist in addressing additional accessibility needs.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary and accommodate tents, pop-up campers, and motorhomes up to 40 feet long.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some sites are spacious with good distance between them, while others are closer to the road and less secluded.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #14 provides privacy and shelter from road dust. Site #10 is ideal for wildlife viewing (deer and wild horses) and group setups.
Best CampsitesSite #14 is frequently praised for privacy and being located away from dusty roads. Site #10 offers proximity to wildlife.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by campsite size
- see specific regulations.
Groups
Group sites are available with spacious layouts and the ability to accommodate multiple vehicles or larger setups. Exact guest and vehicle limits per group site are not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains 20 individual sites spaced among ponderosa pines. Sites vary in size and distance from Forest Road 300.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9th through October 30th annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability noted when campground host permits, but may be limited during peak seasons. Reservation is recommended.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellation (starting midnight 1 calendar day before scheduled check-in) incurs additional penalties, such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to dates outside the original reservation incur a $10 change fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Black Canyon Rim Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Popular options include fishing and boating at nearby Black Canyon Lake, hiking on the General Crook National Recreation Trail, and exploring surrounding dirt roads via UTVs.
Hiking
The General Crook National Recreation Trail is a favorite among visitors. Other trails, including the Hangman Trail, offer exploration opportunities close to the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available at Black Canyon Lake, located about 2.5 miles from the campground. Some reviewers note that the lake water levels are low.Boating
Electric motor boating is permitted on Black Canyon Lake, providing calm and accessible water recreation for visitors.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife frequently observed includes wild horses, mule deer, squirrels, and birds. The wild horses are a unique highlight, with sightings near the lake and occasionally within the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted when restrictions are not in place. Firewood can be purchased onsite.
- Quiet hours are enforced but may be inconsistently observed according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife encounters include skunks and wild horses. Roads leading to the campground have large potholes. Some campsites are uneven or rocky.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Forest Lakes (8 miles west) or Heber (13 miles east).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9th - October 12th annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash services are provided on-site. Campers are also reminded to follow leave-no-trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated about 2.5 miles northeast of Black Canyon Lake, a popular spot for fishing and boating (electric motors).
Common complaintsCommon complaints include campsite mix-ups, limited rule enforcement, and uneven terrain at some campsites.
HostHosts have been described as friendly and helpful. Reviews mention hosts named Pat, Bob, Manny, Terry, Chick, and Wendy. Hosts provide firewood and helpful advice.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 2337, Overgaard, AZ, 85933, USA
Driving directionsLocated 13 miles west of Heber, Arizona. From Forest Lakes, travel east on Highway 260 for approximately 1 mile. Turn south on Forest Road 300 and travel approximately 2.4 miles. The campground is located at the intersection of Forest Roads 300 and 86.
Access is on both sand and gravel roads. The roads are relatively well-maintained, but some reviews mention large potholes near the entrance. Seasonal closures were not mentioned.Nearby places
Forest Lakes (8 miles west), Heber (13 miles east).
Nearby supplies
Gas, phone, and groceries are available at Forest Lakes (8 miles west) and Heber (13 miles east).
Camper Reviews
4.6
62 reviews
Black Canyon Rim Campground (Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Az) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Black Canyon Rim Campground receives generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.4 out of 5. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, helpful hosts, and serene natural setting. Some complaints include uneven campsites, noise from nearby roads, and lack of rule enforcement.
Review Summaries
Based on 62 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praise the cleanliness of the facilities, the helpfulness of camp hosts, and the quiet and peaceful environment. Wildlife sightings, particularly wild horses, added unique value to their...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues mentioned include a lack of enforcement of rules by hosts, noise from nearby roads, uneven ground at certain campsites, and occasional overcrowding on weekends. Additionally, some reviewers...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing SUVs for easier access to rough roads, avoiding busy weekends for a quieter experience, and reserving sites in advance. Verizon is the most reliable provider for cell...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is noted as particularly peaceful during weekdays but tends to fill up on weekends. Reviewers also suggest that the summer season offers cool, pleasant weather compared to...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We had a mule deer within 15' of our site and wild horses within 30 feet." "Verizon hotspot works good enough to stream a movie." "Bathrooms were clean, brightly lit, and not stinky inside with...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 is frequently mentioned as spacious and quieter due to its location farther from the road. Site #5 and #16 are noted for being close to roads with dust disturbances. Sites #18 and #19 are...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets are appreciated, though their distance from certain campsites can pose challenges. Visitors with disabilities are encouraged to consult the camp host for assistance.
Based on 62 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome when leashed. However, guests warn about potential encounters with skunks and other wildlife in the area.
Based on 62 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025