Brookchar
APACHE-SITGREAVES
Brookchar
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The camping rate is $20 per night during peak and first-come-first-served seasons. Includes additional $10 fee for vehicle.
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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation.gov
ProviderAbout this campground
Nestled in the pristine wilderness, Brookchar Campground offers an intimate escape where anglers discover their own slice of paradise. This charming, compact campground centers around a fully stocked lake that beckons fishing enthusiasts from dawn to dusk. Whether you're casting your first line or you're a seasoned angler, the tranquil waters promise both relaxation and the thrill of the catch. With confirmed tent camping sites, visitors can fall asleep to the gentle lapping of water and wake to the promise of another perfect day by the lake.
Brookchar Campground caters exclusively to tent campers with 12 walk-in sites. RVs and trailers are not allowed.
Historical SignificanceThis treasured fishing destination has drawn outdoor enthusiasts for generations, creating a legacy of memorable catches and campfire stories. The area's waters have long been recognized as prime angling territory, establishing Brookchar as a beloved retreat in Arizona's outdoor recreation heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the refreshing mountain climate where cool mornings give way to comfortable afternoons, and evening temperatures invite cozy campfires. The high-elevation setting ensures pleasant summer escapes from desert heat, while spring and fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors.
ElevationPerched in the magnificent high country of eastern Arizona's White Mountains, the campground's elevation provides a natural refuge from lower desert temperatures. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and the promise of adventure, while the altitude creates an ideal habitat for both fish and the anglers who seek them.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a breathtaking tapestry of towering ponderosa pines, majestic firs, and whispering spruce trees that frame the sparkling lake. Stands of quaking aspen create golden corridors in autumn, while wildflower-dotted meadows stretch between forest groves. This diverse ecosystem showcases the White Mountains' most stunning natural elements, from the mirror-like lake surface reflecting azure skies to the surrounding peaks that stand sentinel over this outdoor sanctuary.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable high-elevation White Mountains of eastern Arizona, Brookchar occupies a unique geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity has created the perfect basin for its prized lake. The surrounding landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where ponderosa pine, fir, spruce, and aspen trees thrive in the mineral-rich soils, and expansive meadows provide windows to dramatic mountain vistas.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers walk-in tent sites with no specific mention of ADA-compliant facilities in the official source or user reviews.
Sites SizeEach campsite is tent-only and varies in size. One review stated that Site 12 could accommodate three tents comfortably.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Some reviews, such as one user describing Site 12, mention that it provides a 'private site and a parking spot,' while another user noted sites are approximately 45 to 50 feet apart.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No designated group sites are available in the campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide range of recreational activities. Big Lake is highly popular for trout fishing and boating activities. Visitors also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, birding, wildlife viewing, and relaxing near the lake's scenic beauty.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in the region. While specific trails near the campground are not detailed, the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest offers ample hiking opportunities.Fishing
Big Lake is renowned as one of Arizona's top trout fishing destinations. Anglers seek rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout. One user suggested, 'Fishing from the shore is hit or miss,' and another appreciated the helpful advice at the nearby store for fishing spots.Biking
Mountain biking is a recreational option in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. No specific trails are detailed for Brookchar Campground.Boating
Boating is facilitated by a nearby boat ramp, and rentals are available within a half-mile. A user noted, 'Renting a boat and relaxing on the lake is highly recommended.'Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with visitors frequently spotting elk, deer, and even skunks. One camper described the 'serenade of elk and coyotes in the evening,' while another spotted a deer across the street near the lake.Winter Activities
Winter recreation was not highlighted for this campground, but the high elevation and surrounding forest suggest potential for snow activities during winter months.Water Sports
Opportunities for non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are likely, given the lake access, but these are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
56
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services such as hospitals and ranger stations are not explicitly detailed.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe campground provides trash facilities, but one review mentioned a $5 fee per trash bag. Recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Campground Map
APACHE-SITGREAVES
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Tent camping only; guests must walk to their site from parking. Forest Road 8115 is accessible.Nearby places
Pinetop, AZ (approx. 46 miles or 1 hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Half-mile drive to firewood, gas, food, dump station, store, boat rental availability.
Camper Reviews
4.6
31 reviews

Brookchar is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's proximity to Big Lake, clean facilities, and natural beauty. Positive mentions include the helpfulness of hosts and the serene environment. Some complaints focus on noise from the road, lack of cell phone service, and specific site layouts.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, proximity to Big Lake, well-maintained facilities, and the helpfulness of campground hosts are commonly praised. Many users called it their 'favorite camping spot' due to the...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common issues include lack of cell service, disputes with campground hosts, and noise from nearby Big Lake Road. Specific complaints about site layouts include uneven ground and proximity to...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend downloading offline maps, reserving Site 12 for its privacy and proximity to the lake, and bringing warm clothing for cool nights. They also suggest renting a boat for lake...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is highly popular for camping due to the cool temperatures and scenic beauty, though visitors should be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms. Fall is appreciated for the golden aspen leaves,...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'We stayed over a week in the pouring rain. It was the best camping ever.' 2. 'The campground has a parking lot and you have to walk to your site, but Site 12 comes with its own reserved parking...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 is highly recommended for its privacy and proximity to Big Lake. Site 13 is criticized for its uneven ground and lack of privacy. Other sites, such as 10 and 11, are noted for their space and...
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Accessibility Features
No explicit reviews address accessibility for people with disabilities. The walk-in nature of the sites may pose challenges for some visitors.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet policies or pet-friendly features were identified.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025