Horse Springs Campground
4.647 reviewsHorse Springs Campground
$8.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
The per-vehicle fee is $16.00 per night, with an additional camp unit fee of $16.00. Discounted rates are available for interagency or senior pass holders ($8.00 per night).
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About this campground
Nestled among towering ponderosa pines, Horse Springs Campground offers 27 thoughtfully spaced sites where the gentle murmur of the East Fork river creates nature's perfect soundtrack. This mountain retreat features modern amenities including clean restroom facilities and a spacious group ramada, while picnic areas scattered throughout invite you to dine al fresco beneath a canopy of pine boughs. Here, where grasses dance in the breeze and alders line the riverbank, tranquility isn't just promised—it's guaranteed.
Horse Springs Campground supports tent camping and single-unit camping sites, as confirmed by official sources. The campground does not provide RV hookups and does not offer cabin or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceHorse Springs carries stories of resilience in its very landscape. The East Fork river has served as nature's firebreak, protecting this pristine pocket of forest from wildfires that have swept through surrounding areas, allowing the campground's natural beauty to remain untouched. Wildlife enthusiasts take note: lucky visitors have spotted magnificent longhorn sheep traversing the nearby ridges, adding an element of wilderness adventure to any stay.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of four distinct seasons at Horse Springs. Winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland, with frequent snowfall creating a pristine alpine landscape. As summer arrives, the high elevation delivers refreshingly cool temperatures and crystal-clear skies that make for perfect camping weather. Peak visiting conditions grace the campground in June and July, when wildflowers bloom and days are long and warm, while nights remain pleasantly cool for comfortable sleeping under the stars.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,610 feet above sea level, Horse Springs Campground offers a true high-country escape. This elevation brings welcome relief from summer heat, with temperatures often 15-20 degrees cooler than the valleys below. Winter visitors should come prepared for a genuine mountain experience, as snow frequently blankets the campground, transforming it into a winter wonderland that's perfect for those seeking a more adventurous camping experience.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of ponderosa pines while the East Fork river sings its morning song. Horse Springs Campground rests in a picturesque forested valley where nature has crafted the perfect camping backdrop. Majestic pines provide generous shade throughout the day, while riverside alders and streamside hardwoods create layers of green that shift with every breeze. Previous visitors consistently praise the campground's 'peaceful and clean' atmosphere—a testament to both its natural beauty and careful maintenance.
Geological RegionHorse Springs Campground lies within the breathtaking East Fork valley, a jewel in the crown of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This remarkable ecosystem showcases the best of Arizona's high country, where towering ponderosa pines dominate the landscape, creating a forest cathedral that feels worlds away from the desert below. The valley's unique geography supports a diverse tapestry of vegetation—from meadow grasses that ripple like golden waves to moisture-loving alders and hardwoods that thrive along the river's edge, painting the landscape in varying shades of green throughout the growing season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility is described as relatively good in the authoritative content ('Most of the campground is relatively accessible.') However, specific features for disabled campers were not highlighted.
Sites SizeThe authoritative content mentions 27 single-unit sites, but does not elaborate on the sizes of the campsites.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews offer varied perspectives on privacy. One user stated that despite being full during a holiday weekend, 'neighbors were far enough away that they didn't bother us,' suggesting a reasonable level of privacy.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the East Fork river may offer enhanced views and ambiance, but odors from latrines are reported throughout.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No explicit details about group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 27 single-unit sites, each equipped with picnic tables and rock fire rings. User reviews mention good spacing between sites for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed season begins when water is removed, as of October 15th.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are not reservable; first-come, first-served basis noted explicitly.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Horse Springs Campground offers recreational activities such as fishing, hunting, shooting, and picnicking as described in authoritative content. User reviews do not elaborate much on the activities but mention proximity to the river and the enjoyment of shaded areas provided by ponderosa pines.
Fishing
Fishing is mentioned as being available along the East Fork ('Fishing - River/Stream'). Specific details about fish types or fishing quality are not provided.Winter Activities
No information was provided about winter-specific recreational activities.Water Sports
No information was provided about non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed within designated rock fire rings at individual sites.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include thunderstorms (as noted in user reviews), odors from latrines, and wildlife encounters. The forested setting may lead to shorter days due to limited sunlight in the canyon.
Active alertsWater has been removed for the season as of October 15th, making potable water unavailable. Seasonal closures occur during winter months due to freezing conditions.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 likely in Alpine, which features local medical facilities and police services. Exact locations not specified.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned in authoritative content or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the East Fork of the Black River, providing opportunities for fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsComplaints include odors from latrines and disturbances from off-road vehicle users driving the wrong way to access facilities. Holiday weekends may be crowded.
HostThe campground is concessionaire-operated, with positive feedback from users about hosts being 'nice and friendly.' Specific contact details are not provided.
Campground Map
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.
Accessible via wide, graveled roads; suitable for most vehicles. Forest roads may require caution during inclement weather.Nearby places
Alpine, 7 miles, approximately 10-minute drive.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Alpine, approximately 7 miles away, including fuel, groceries, and camping provisions.
Camper Reviews
4.6
7 reviews
Horse Springs Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Horse Springs Campground generally describe it as clean, peaceful, and shaded, with a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many praised the cleanliness of the restrooms, the helpfulness of the hosts, and the scenic surroundings. However, complaints about odors from the vault toilets and disturbances on holiday weekends were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects raised by users include clean restrooms, spacious campsites ('camping spots are spaced well'), proximity to the river ('close to the river'), and friendly campground hosts ('friendly...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focused on disturbances from off-road vehicles ('people with off road vehicles that would come into the campsite') and unpleasant odors from the vault toilets ('I couldn't get away...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend avoiding holiday weekends to experience peace and quiet ('If you want to get some peace and quiet I would recommend not going a holiday weekend').
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are described as busy, particularly during holidays ('we were there over 4th of July weekend and there were a lot of people'). Reviews also mention cool weather in June as a positive...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Campground and host were really nice.' - Kayleigh Collins. 'Despite the campsite being full, neighbors were far enough away that they didn't bother us.' - Kayleigh Collins....
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were mentioned in reviews.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
While the authoritative source mentions the campground as relatively accessible, user reviews do not provide specific feedback on accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, as confirmed in authoritative sources ('Pets must be restrained or on a leash'). User reviews do not specifically address pet-related experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025