Lakeview Campground
4.5159 reviewsLakeview Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona
Lakeview Campground
$20.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees for campsites include $20 per night for single sites and $40 per night for double sites. Discounts are available with federal passes, reducing single-site fees to $10. Day-use fees are $8 per vehicle or $10 per week.
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About this campground
Perched majestically on a hillside above the shimmering waters of Parker Canyon Lake, Lakeview Campground offers 64 thoughtfully designed campsites across two distinct loops. The tent loop rewards adventurers with breathtaking lake vistas and intimate, secluded spots tucked among the trees, while the spacious RV loop welcomes larger rigs in a more open setting (though without hookups). Weekday visitors often find themselves in blissful solitude, sharing the landscape only with fellow nature enthusiasts who come for world-class birdwatching and some of Arizona's finest fishing.
Lakeview Campground offers a range of camping accommodations, primarily catering to tent and RV users. It features two distinct loops: one designated for tents and another for RVs, both equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and trash facilities. The tent loop offers better access to the lake and a quieter environment.
Historical SignificanceNo historical or cultural significance information provided.
Weather and SeasonsAt this refreshing elevation, Lakeview Campground enjoys a delightfully mild climate that offers respite from Arizona's notorious heat. Winter nights bring crisp, star-filled skies with temperatures settling into the 30s, perfect for campfire gatherings. Summer days peak in the comfortable low 80s, though afternoon monsoons occasionally roll through with dramatic thunderheads and refreshing rains. Many visitors specifically seek out this cool mountain retreat when the desert valleys below become unbearable.
ElevationRising 5,400 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary delivers naturally air-conditioned camping year-round. The elevation creates a unique microclimate where desert meets forest, bringing cooler temperatures and occasional exhilarating wind gusts that whisper through the trees and ripple across the lake below.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a stunning tapestry of oak and juniper forests, the campground serves as your gateway to Parker Canyon Lake's 160 acres of pristine mountain water. This ecological wonderland transforms each visit into a wildlife watching adventure, where majestic bald eagles soar overhead, osprey dive for their dinner, and elusive Coues white-tailed deer emerge at dusk. Lucky visitors might even spot the exotic coatimundi, a ring-tailed relative of the raccoon that adds tropical flair to this high-desert paradise.
Geological RegionSet within the vast Coronado National Forest, Lakeview Campground crowns a scenic hill overlooking Parker Canyon Lake, where ancient oak and juniper forests create a living mosaic of green. This remarkable ecosystem supports an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, from soaring bald eagles and fishing osprey to the graceful Coues white-tailed deer and the curious coatimundi. The unique combination of elevation, water, and varied habitats makes this one of southeastern Arizona's premier destinations for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes wheelchair-friendly vault toilets, and two barrier-free viewing areas with interpretive signs overlooking Parker Canyon Lake. Paved parking aprons and ramp access are also available for persons with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are designed for a mix of tent and RV users. Sizes vary, with some sites being tight for larger RVs or fifth wheels.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy ranges from poor to fair, with sites being fairly close to one another and limited natural screening by juniper and oak trees.
Total Campsites64 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent sites are recommended for their lake views and privacy. RV sites require leveling due to uneven terrain.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight campsite 14 in the tent area for its proximity to restrooms, drinking water, and trails leading to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is determined on arrival as reservations are not accepted.
Check-out
Checkout at noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- No explicit guest limit provided
- most sites accommodate single families.
Groups
Group camping options are not detailed, but separate tent and RV loops cater to various camping preferences.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground comprises two loops: one dedicated to tents with accessible sites and another catering to RVs but without hookups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform available; first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews advise arriving early, especially during weekends and holidays, as the campground fills up quickly.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy mentioned as reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Lakeview Campground at Parker Canyon Lake provides a wide variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. The most popular activities among campers include fishing, hiking, boating, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. The 5-mile Lakeshore Trail allows for peaceful hikes around the lake, offering occasional wildlife sightings such as Coues white-tailed deer and coatimundi. Seasonal bird-watching opportunities include sightings of bald eagles and osprey. Non-motorized boating and fishing for largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and catfish are highly favored activities.
Hiking
The campground provides direct access to the 5-mile Lakeshore Trail, which is a loop trail running around Parker Canyon Lake. The trail has several viewing benches and two barrier-free areas, making it accessible for users of varying mobility levels. A trailhead for the Arizona Trail is also located nearby.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Parker Canyon Lake, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, rainbow trout, sunfish, and catfish. Boats with a maximum of 10 horsepower are allowed. A fishing dock is available for campers without boats.Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted at the lake, and power boats are restricted to a maximum of 10 horsepower. The boat ramp is located approximately 0.8 miles from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities at Parker Canyon Lake include sightings of Coues white-tailed deer, bald eagles, and osprey. The area also attracts seasonal migrating waterfowl.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities like snowshoeing or ice fishing are mentioned. However, the campground remains open year-round, potentially allowing for off-season hiking.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, paddle boating, and canoeing are supported by the lake's facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with each site equipped with a firepit and grill. Fire safety during red-flag conditions requires the use of propane stoves.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM until 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are common in the area, and raccoons have been reported to steal food from tents and coolers. The campground lacks bear-proof food lockers, which poses additional food safety concerns.
Active alertsActive alerts or warnings were not mentioned.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 14.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are null. Information from user reviews and official sources does not explicitly provide details about the nearest hospital or ranger station.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided; user reviews suggest weekends and holidays are busiest.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles and bear-proof trash lockers are available throughout the campground for waste disposal. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located within 0.8 miles of Parker Canyon Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include generator noise, rocky terrain, and overcrowding during weekends. Noise from day-use visitors is noted in several user reviews, along with criticism of the cleanliness of restrooms and trash receptacles.
HostUser reviews describe hosts as 'friendly and helpful' but note varying levels of attentiveness to restroom and trash maintenance.
Campground Map
Lakeview Campground, Coronado National Forest, Arizona
Driving directionsFrom Tucson, drive east on Interstate 10 to the State Route 83 exit. Drive south to Sonoita, then continue on AZ 83 approximately 25 miles to Parker Canyon Lake. From Sierra Vista, travel through Fort Huachuca’s west gate to State Route 83. Turn south and travel 10 miles to Parker Canyon Lake. Alternate from Sierra Vista: travel south on State Highway 92 about 14 miles to Coronado Memorial Road (FR 61) and drive 25 miles over Montezuma Pass on FR 61, then FR 48, along the south side of the Huachuca Mountains to Parker Canyon Lake.
The campground is accessible year-round via paved roads, although some sections near the site are reported to have large potholes and single-lane stretches. Seasonal snow or rain may impact overall road conditions.Nearby places
Sonoita: 25 miles (approximately 30 minutes)
Sierra Vista: Nearby with detailed driving options provided for varying routes.
Nearby supplies
A general store near the boat ramp (0.8 miles from the campground entrance) offers limited groceries, fishing licenses, and boat rentals. User reviews consistently emphasize that supplies are overpriced, recommending visitors purchase essentials in Sonoita or Sierra Vista before arrival.
Camper Reviews
4.5
59 reviews
Lakeview Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Lakeview Campground at Parker Canyon Lake highlight its serene location, proximity to wildlife, and access to recreational activities like hiking and fishing. However, concerns about generator noise, lack of potable water, and occasional overcrowding during weekends are also frequently mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the peaceful environment, abundant wildlife, and convenient access to Parker Canyon Lake. The tent loop is particularly favored for its proximity to the lake and relative quiet....
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include generator noise disrupting the tranquility, lack of potable water, and rocky terrain making tent setup difficult. Some users mentioned crowded and noisy conditions on...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving early to secure a campsite, especially during weekends and holidays, as reservations are not accepted. Campers should bring their own water and shade structures, as...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Weekdays tend to be quieter and less crowded compared to weekends, which attract larger groups and can become noisy. Summer months may be busier due to favorable weather conditions and the influx of...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "We really enjoyed camping here. Bring an easy-up for shade because there isn't much over the tables." - Jo Jackson
- "Great other than the guy running his generator all day." - James Goss
- "It's...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews frequently mention the tent loop as more desirable for its proximity to the lake and quieter environment. RV sites are noted to require leveling due to uneven terrain. Campsite...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Campers with disabilities appreciated the wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and barrier-free viewing areas. However, they noted the rocky terrain and unmaintained trails as potential challenges.
Based on 59 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, and visitors enjoyed walking their dogs along the trails and around the lake. Owners should be cautious of wildlife interactions.
Based on 59 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025