Forked Pine Campground
4.649 reviewsForked Pine Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Not available.
About this campground
Discover the pristine beauty of Ashurst Lake Campgrounds, where crystal-clear waters meet towering ponderosa pines in Northern Arizona's high country. This scenic mountain retreat offers multiple camping areas around a sparkling 230-acre lake, perfect for families seeking outdoor adventures or anglers chasing rainbow trout. With easy access from Flagstaff and well-maintained facilities, Ashurst Lake provides an ideal basecamp for exploring the surrounding Coconino National Forest.
This location primarily caters to primitive camping and smaller-scale nature activities.
Historical SignificanceNamed after pioneering businessman Henry Fountain Ashurst, Arizona's first U.S. Senator, this area has long served as a gathering place for outdoor enthusiasts. The lake was created in the 1950s as part of a watershed management project, transforming the landscape into a recreational paradise. The surrounding forest has been home to indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with the Sinagua, Hopi, and other tribes leaving their mark on the region through ancient trails and seasonal hunting grounds.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons at this high-altitude gem. Summer brings warm, sunny days perfect for swimming and boating, with temperatures ranging from 70-80°F during the day and cool, crisp evenings. Spring and fall offer mild weather ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland. The campground typically operates from May through September, though dates vary based on snowmelt and weather conditions.
ElevationPerched at 7,000 feet above sea level, Ashurst Lake offers a refreshing escape from desert heat. This elevated setting creates a unique microclimate where alpine meadows meet pine forests, providing cooler temperatures and cleaner air than the valleys below. The high elevation means visitors should stay hydrated and may need a day to acclimate, but the reward is stunning mountain vistas and star-filled night skies free from light pollution.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by dense stands of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and quaking aspen, Ashurst Lake showcases the diverse beauty of Arizona's high country. The lake's shoreline features rocky outcroppings perfect for fishing, sandy beaches ideal for picnicking, and hidden coves waiting to be explored by kayak or canoe. Wildlife abounds, with elk, deer, and wild turkey frequently spotted at dawn and dusk, while bald eagles and osprey patrol the skies above the fish-rich waters.
Geological RegionNestled within the expansive Colorado Plateau, Ashurst Lake sits in a natural depression formed by ancient volcanic activity. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, with nearby cinder cones and lava flows evidence of the region's fiery past. The porous volcanic soil creates unique growing conditions for the area's diverse plant life, while the underlying basalt formations help maintain the lake's water levels throughout the dry summer months.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned.
Sites SizeCampground size accommodates both tents and trailers, but specific sizes are not mentioned.
Sites PrivacySites offer a sense of privacy with more open spaces and less traffic compared to busier areas.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNot available.
Best CampsitesNot available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not available.
Check-out
Not available.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNot available.
Open and Closed SeasonNot available.
Reservation PlatformsNot available.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available.
Cancellation PolicyNot available.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Forked Pine Campground provides visitors with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and nature observation. Many activities are focused around the nearby Ashurst Lake.
Hiking
Hiking activities seem readily available, particularly around the lake and less trafficked areas.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight according to reviews: "You can fish all around the lake," with trout being a key attraction.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is often mentioned by visitors: "We watch sunsets, sunrise, there are beautiful wildflowers" and "Great place for camping, fishing."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not available.
- Quiet hours are Not available.
Hazards
General hazardsNot available.
Active alertsNot available.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 75%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.6 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Not available.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot available.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available at the site as per user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresNot available.
Common complaintsNot available.
HostNot available.
Campground Map
Driving directionsNot available.
Not available.Nearby places
Not available.
Nearby supplies
Not available.
Camper Reviews
4.6
9 reviews
Forked Pine Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiments about Forked Pine Campground are generally positive, emphasizing its tranquility, accessibility, and proximity to Ashurst Lake.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean toilets, friendly camp hosts, and well-maintained grounds are key positive aspects. Campers also noted the peaceful ambiance and good fishing conditions.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some campers complained about the windy conditions and the rocky nature of tent sites. One reviewer commented: 'Terrible tent sites, too rocky. Definitely not worth $20/day.'
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sturdy equipment to manage the windy weather. Visiting during weekdays is advisable to avoid potential crowds.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
"What a great lake and campground. The campgrounds are conveniently located around the lake." - Isa Marquez. "Great camping spot and very friendly park staff! They were so helpful." - Alexandra...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews highlight the challenges with tent sites being rocky but also praise the open spaces and proximity to fishing areas around Ashurst Lake.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025