Rainbow (Az)
4.71215 reviewsAPACHE-SITGREAVES
Rainbow (Az)
$26.00 - $28.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Standard Nonelectric sites range from $26-$28 per night during the peak season. Group sites cost $90 per night.
About this campground
Discover the crown jewel of Big Lake Recreation Area at Rainbow Campground, where 165 thoughtfully arranged campsites across six distinct loops create a vibrant outdoor community beneath towering pines. This well-appointed basecamp combines the comforts of modern amenities—including flush toilets, convenient water spigots, and a nearby camp store—with the wild beauty of Arizona's high country. Friendly camp hosts stand ready to help you make the most of your mountain escape, ensuring every detail of your stay is as pristine as the surrounding wilderness.
Rainbow Campground provides diverse camping options suitable for various visitor needs. The campground features standard nonelectric sites, double group sites accommodating up to 16 people, and accessible single-unit sites. While primarily geared towards tent and RV camping, it does not offer cabins or glamping options.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect air conditioning at Rainbow Campground, where summer days hover in an ideal 65-80°F range while nights dip into the crisp 30s—perfect for campfire stories and cozy sleeping bags. The afternoon skies often put on dramatic displays during monsoon season, as thunderclouds roll across the peaks bringing refreshing rain showers that enhance the forest's earthy aromatics and leave the air impossibly fresh.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,000 feet above sea level, Rainbow Campground offers a true high-altitude adventure where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath feels like pure mountain magic. While the thin air may require a day or two of adjustment, the reward is an escape into a cooler world far above the desert heat, where summer feels more like spring and the landscape transforms into an alpine paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanting forest cathedral where massive ponderosa pines mingle with stately Douglas firs, while delicate aspens dance in the mountain breeze and spruce trees add their distinctive silhouettes to the skyline. At 9,000 feet, this natural sanctuary treats visitors to a spectacular show of seasons—from the fresh green emergence of spring to the golden aspen displays of fall, all accompanied by cool mountain breezes and the occasional afternoon thunderstorm that paints the sky in dramatic grays and purples.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic White Mountains at 9,000 feet, Rainbow Campground occupies a remarkable geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity has created a landscape of rolling peaks and verdant valleys. This elevated forest ecosystem showcases nature's vertical diversity, with towering ponderosa pines giving way to Douglas firs, while graceful aspens and hardy spruce trees complete the montane tapestry—a living testament to the White Mountains' unique position as one of Arizona's most biodiverse regions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes two single-unit accessible campsites, ensuring some accommodation for visitors with disabilities. Paved roads and designated accessible pathways further enhance usability.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some capable of accommodating larger groups or families. One reviewer specifically noted the "large and spacious" campsites, which are "well designed for maximum privacy."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site, but many campers praised the spacing and wooded surroundings. "Campsites are fairly far apart, so you have some privacy," one user commented.
Total Campsites165 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites with level terrain for easier tent or RV setup. Avoid pull-through sites with tight turns if using a large trailer.
Best CampsitesSpecific sites praised in reviews include #68 and #109 for trailers, and #37 for privacy and natural beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site range from 8 for individual sites to 16 for group sites.
Groups
Four double sites are available, each accommodating up to 16 people, making them ideal for larger families or groups. Specific regulations regarding tents per group site have been raised by users as a point of concern.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into six loops with drive-in and pull-through sites. Some loops are closer to restrooms than others.
Open and Closed SeasonRainbow Campground is open from May 16 to September 18 each year. Reservations are available starting June 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during the shoulder season from September 19 to October 15. These must be booked in person.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations will also forfeit the first night's recreation use 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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Rainbow Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Proximity to the 450-acre Big Lake allows for excellent fishing, boating, and other water-based adventures. Visitors can also explore nearby hiking trails, enjoy wildlife viewing, or participate in cultural programs at the visitor center. The campground's scenic location at 9,000 feet elevation provides a cool, pleasant climate, ideal for activities.
Hiking
Several hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including the Mount Baldy and Indian Springs trails. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty and scenic views, with one user recommending the hike from the upper portion of the campground to the Big Lake lookout for its impressive vistas. "Great hikes in the area" is a common sentiment among reviewers.Fishing
Big Lake is renowned for its trout fishing, with species such as rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout available. Many reviewers highlighted fishing as a top attraction, though some noted variability in catch success. "Great trout fishing and wonderful hiking trails," remarked one camper.Biking
The campground’s paved roads and surrounding trails offer excellent opportunities for biking. "Nice roads to bike on," commented a user, emphasizing the suitability for family-friendly rides.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Big Lake, with boat rentals available at the nearby marina. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing from boats are commonly mentioned by campers.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, squirrels, and skunks, is commonly observed in the area. Reviewers frequently mentioned sightings, with one camper noting the "souls of elk and deer" around the campground.Cultural and Educational Programs
Educational programs are available at the visitor center, offering insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Specific topics or schedules were not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, or ice fishing are not mentioned, likely due to the seasonal nature of the campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing and kayaking are popular at Big Lake, supported by boat rental facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings are available at all sites. Visitors are encouraged to collect fallen wood on-site or purchase firewood locally. Strict adherence to fire bans is required.
- Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include bears, skunks, deer, and squirrels. Visitors should be prepared for bear activity and follow all food storage rules.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are in Springerville, AZ, approximately 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 18.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their locations or schedules were not mentioned. Visitors are reminded to follow proper waste disposal practices to protect the environment.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Big Lake, a 450-acre fishing lake known for rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include generator noise outside designated hours, rutted roads within the campground, and high shower fees.
HostCamp hosts are frequently commended for being friendly, helpful, and maintaining cleanliness. Named hosts include Cindy, Mel, Kathy, and JC.
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 1 mile to the campground.
The campground is accessed via paved roads. However, reviews note that roads within the campground have severe ruts and frost heaving, making navigation rough for vehicles and walking challenging.Nearby places
Springerville (approx. 25 miles, 30-minute drive), Alpine (approx. 17 miles, variable travel time), Eagar (approx. 20 miles, variable travel time)
Nearby supplies
Nearby Big Lake Store is located down the road from the campground. It sells gas, food, boat rentals, firewood, ice, and basic camping supplies. Additional supplies can be found in Springerville or Eagar, both approximately 25 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
215 reviews
Rainbow (Az) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rainbow Campground is widely regarded as a scenic, well-maintained campground with friendly hosts and abundant outdoor activities. The consistently high ratings emphasize cleanliness, spacious sites, and the variety of recreational opportunities. Commonly cited drawbacks include generator noise, limited cell service, and occasional skunk issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 215 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and the helpfulness of the hosts. "The sites are always clean," and the camp hosts receive high accolades for their assistance....
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the high cost of showers, generator noise, skunk activity, and limited cell service. Issues with road conditions and campsite accessibility for larger RVs are also noted.
Based on 215 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of blankets for cool nights, preparing for limited connectivity, and using repellents to mitigate skunk encounters. Several reviewers suggest booking group sites...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season, with cool daytime temperatures making it ideal for outdoor activities. Rain and thunderstorms are common, particularly during monsoon season, so visitors should...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The flushing bathrooms [are] ALWAYS clean." "There is absolutely no internet here, which isn’t really a bad thing!" "We love Rainbow Campground and have been camping there for years." "The weather...
Based on 215 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites such as 68 and 109 are recommended for smaller trailers, while site 90 is criticized for being uneven. Group sites are appreciated for their capacity but face tent-limit concerns.
Based on 215 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes accessible sites and paved roads, making it partially suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Based on 215 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at Rainbow Campground, and many visitors bring their dogs. Pets must be on a leash at all times, and the area offers good walking paths for pet owners.
Based on 215 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025