Apache Trout Campground
4.54278 reviewsApache Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville, AZ 85938, USA
Apache Trout Campground
$30.00 - $375.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$46.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$50.00
Group Site Fee$375.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $30 to $375 depending on the type of site and season (standard sites, group sites, electric hookups). Extra fees apply for advanced reservations ($8 online, $9 via phone, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking Big Lake Recreation Area, Apache Trout Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comforts and wilderness adventure. Here, you'll discover full hookup sites alongside pristine shower facilities and convenient flush toilets, making it an ideal basecamp for families and groups seeking both comfort and connection with nature. The campground has earned its reputation as a premier destination for anglers drawn to the legendary trout fishing at nearby Big Lake, where morning mists dance across the water and the promise of the day's catch keeps spirits high.
Apache Trout Campground offers diverse camping options, including full hookups for RVs, group campsites, tent camping, and dry camping areas.
Weather and SeasonsEscape the scorching desert heat and discover nature's air conditioning at Apache Trout, where summer days bring refreshingly cool temperatures that feel like a gentle embrace after the intensity of Arizona's lower elevations. July and August transform the landscape with dramatic monsoon performances – nature's own light show where afternoon clouds build into towering thunderheads, releasing cleansing rains that occasionally pepper the forest floor with hail, adding an element of wild excitement to your mountain retreat.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 9,100 feet, Apache Trout Campground offers visitors a chance to literally rise above it all. This lofty elevation delivers crisp, clean mountain air and naturally cool temperatures, though newcomers to the heights should take it easy their first day or two as their bodies adjust to the thinner atmosphere – a small price to pay for the spectacular high-country experience that awaits.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted forest where towering ponderosa pines release their vanilla-scented perfume on warm afternoons, and Douglas firs stand sentinel alongside stately spruce trees. Vibrant aspen groves shimmer in the breeze, their leaves creating nature's own symphony. Between the forest corridors, sun-drenched meadows burst with wildflowers, creating perfect frames for photographing the majestic elk that graze at dawn and dusk. Keep your camera ready – graceful deer often appear like forest spirits, adding magic to an already captivating landscape.
Geological RegionRising from the ancient volcanic peaks of eastern Arizona's White Mountains, Apache Trout Campground sits at an impressive 9,100 feet, where the earth's geological history unfolds in layers of forest and meadow. This high-altitude sanctuary showcases nature's vertical diversity – from the aromatic ponderosa pine forests at its base through cool Douglas fir groves, up to the spruce-dominated heights where quaking aspens paint golden brushstrokes across autumn meadows. It's a living testament to the power of elevation, where each thousand feet reveals a new chapter in the mountain's ecological story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible occupant features, though specific accessibility details are not extensively mentioned in authoritative sources. Users frequently praised staff for helpfulness in assisting guests.
Sites SizeCampsites are noted for being large and spacious, accommodating setups like double RVs or large groups. 'Spacious sites with plenty of privacy,' noted one review.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are generally spacious and offer privacy, with many backing up to forested areas. 'The spots are spread out so you're not on top of your neighbor,' according to one user. However, some complained about proximity to roads: 'Traffic felt right in my campsite.'
Total Campsites123 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 37-40 are spacious but may lack gravel, making them muddy during rainy periods. Site 84 is noted for proximity to facilities, though complaints about fire pit placement exist.
Best CampsitesFir Loop and Pine Loop are popular for group camping. Sites 46-86 in Aspen and Oak Loops feature full hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 7:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 7:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard single-family sites allow one camping unit only. Group site capacities vary.
Groups
The campground includes one group site accommodating up to 50 people and another for up to 100 people. These sites are favored by large families and organizations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops including Fir, Pine, Aspen, and Oak loops, offering a variety of site options.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally, opening mid-May and closing mid-September. First-come, first-served sites are available during shoulder seasons (September to October).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, via online, phone, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during shoulder seasons. These sites cannot be reserved or checked for availability by phone.
Cancellation PolicyA standard $10 cancellation fee applies, plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Modifications to reservations incur a $10 fee if dates are changed entirely.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Apache Trout Campground provides a wealth of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to the 450-acre Big Lake makes it a prime location for outdoor recreation.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at Apache Trout Campground, with numerous trails nearby. 'Close to lots of great hiking trails,' one review noted. Another suggested, 'Would be nice to have hiking trails designated and marked from the campground.'Fishing
Big Lake is known for trout fishing, offering species like rainbow, cutthroat, brook, and Apache trout. 'Fishing was outstanding,' according to one review, while another noted the lake's algae issues during certain seasons.Biking
Mountain biking is available in the campground's vicinity. Specific trails are not detailed in the sources.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at Big Lake. Visitors can rent boats at the general store or bring their own.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of elk, deer, and other forest animals. 'We enjoyed all the wildlife that came through our camp,' stated one review.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates seasonally, typically closing from late fall to early spring.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are popular at Big Lake, as noted in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire bans are common during dry seasons. Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, and food storage guidelines must be followed. Seasonal potholes and gravel roads may make driving challenging.
Active alertsShowers and some facilities may be closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. Fire bans are common during dry seasons.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.6 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
Closest hospital and emergency services are in Springerville, AZ, 27 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 18
Trash and recyclingOn-site trash dumpsters are available, and bear-resistant dumpsters are locked nightly at 7 PM to prevent wildlife interference. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated within walking distance of Big Lake, a 450-acre lake popular for trout fishing.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention potholes in campground roads, broken water hookups, and the closure of showers during certain periods.
HostHosts Mark and Lisa are often praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
Campground Map
Apache Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville, AZ 85938, USA
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 3 miles.
The access roads are paved up to the campground, but within the campground, roads are wide dirt/gravel. Some user reviews mention potholes that could affect driving. Accessibility depends on snow conditions during winter closures.Nearby places
Springerville, AZ (27 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Alpine, AZ (33 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Eagar, AZ (28 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be found at a store near Big Lake Recreation Area. Additional options are available in Springerville, AZ, approximately 27 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
278 reviews
Apache Trout Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiments about Apache Trout Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with highlights including clean facilities, spacious sites, and helpful hosts. Negative feedback includes issues with potholes, closed showers, and occasional overcrowding.
Review Summaries
Based on 278 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praises include the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers, the friendly and helpful camp hosts, and the scenic beauty of the campground. 'Great campground with plenty of space between...
Based on 278 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include potholes in the roads, closed showers, and proximity of some sites to loop roads. 'The potholes desperately need attention,' one user remarked. Another stated, 'The shower...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Reserve sites early due to high demand during peak seasons.
- Bring cash for purchases at the general store to avoid card transaction fees.
- Carry additional leveling blocks for uneven sites.
- Be...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are highly praised for cooler temperatures and scenic beauty. Monsoon season brings daily rain showers, which users generally appreciate but note can lead to potholes and muddy sites....
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Hosts were very friendly and accommodating. Restrooms were clean and modern.' - User review.
2. 'The spots are spread out so you're not on top of your neighbor.' - User review.
3. 'Showers were...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes both praises and complaints. For instance, site #37 in Aspen Loop was noted for its proximity to wildlife but criticized for potholes. Sites #57 & #58 were described...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are praised, especially the helpfulness of camp hosts in assisting guests. Specific details about wheelchair-accessible sites or facilities are not mentioned.
Based on 278 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and many reviews highlight how pet-friendly the campground is. 'Great for fur babies,' one user stated. However, some complaints arose about off-leash dogs and non-compliance with...
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Last updated August 10, 2025