Dogtown Lake Campground And Group
4.44238 reviews, WILLIAMS, AZ, 86046, USA
Dogtown Lake Campground And Group
$30.00 - $300.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$300.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $30 to $300 depending on site type and season. Group sites cost $300 per night. A reservation fee ($8 online, $9 via call center, $3 in person) applies.
About this campground
Nestled within the sprawling Kaibab National Forest, Dogtown Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its pristine shoreline camping and breathtaking views of Bill Williams Mountain. Whether you're casting a line into the tranquil waters, exploring forest trails, or simply relaxing at your accessible lakeside site, this scenic retreat offers an authentic Northern Arizona wilderness experience just waiting to be discovered.
Dogtown Lake Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with frontier history, where sprawling prairie dog towns once dotted the meadows, giving this cherished lake its distinctive name. Just a short drive away lies the historic town of Williams, proudly known as the 'Gateway to the Grand Canyon,' where the spirit of the Old West meets modern adventure. This connection to both natural and human history makes every visit a journey through time.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Arizona's high country through the seasons. Summer nights cool to a refreshing 50°F, perfect for campfire gatherings, while days warm to a pleasant 90°F ideal for lake activities. July and August bring the spectacular monsoon season, when afternoon thunderstorms paint the sky and refresh the forest. Winter transforms the landscape from December through March, blanketing the area in pristine snow and creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and serene beauty.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,050 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from desert heat. The high elevation brings crisp, pine-scented air and noticeably cooler temperatures year-round, with winter occasionally transforming the campground into a snow-dusted paradise. This lofty setting provides the perfect climate for comfortable summer camping and stunning seasonal transitions.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral around the shimmering waters of Dogtown Lake. At 7,050 feet, this mountain oasis showcases the best of Northern Arizona's high country, with the majestic Bill Williams Mountain serving as a dramatic backdrop. The interplay of forest, water, and mountain creates endless photo opportunities and moments of pure natural wonder, while the legacy of historic prairie dog towns adds a unique character to this enchanting wilderness retreat.
Geological RegionDiscover the wonders of the Colorado Plateau at Dogtown Lake, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a remarkable landscape within the Kaibab National Forest. At 7,050 feet elevation, this region showcases the dramatic results of ancient uplift processes that created today's pine-forested highlands. The surrounding terrain tells a fascinating story of Earth's power, from volcanic origins to erosional artistry, making every hike an exploration through deep geological time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAll campsites are accessible, offering level areas and both pull-through and back-in options for RVs.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size, including standard, double, and group sites accommodating up to 80 people.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate a mix of experiences with privacy. Some campsites are well-spaced, while others lack sufficient tree cover between sites.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near restrooms are convenient but may lack privacy. Loop B is favored for its quieter atmosphere.
Best CampsitesLoop B sites 49 and 52 are often praised for their proximity to amenities and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows a maximum of 8 guests.
Groups
The group site can host up to 80 people overnight and includes features such as ramadas and two fireplaces. "AMAZING place - we had a group of about 30 people and the group area accommodated everyone perfectly!"
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized in loops (Loop A and Loop B) with options for pull-through and back-in RV spaces.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 30 each year. Reservations available until September 15; afterwards, first-come-first-served.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov (website, mobile app, or contact center).
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from September 16 to September 30 on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or through the contact center. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 24 hours for individual sites and within 14 days for group sites) will also forfeit the first night's 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Dogtown Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. The lake is a central focus for activities such as fishing and kayaking.
Hiking
Hiking trails near the campground include a guided nature trail and a path leading to a scenic overlook on Davenport Hill. "The lake is about 2.5 miles around. Made for a nice little walk with the kids." (User review).Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with the lake stocked with trout, crappie, and channel catfish. User reviews are mixed, with some enjoying successful fishing trips: "Caught some trout. Parking is close to the lake." Others mentioned challenges: "Fishing was a drag so far. 3 days and nothing to show for."Biking
The area is suitable for mountain biking, with trails available in the surrounding forest.Boating
Boating is permitted with restrictions—electric motorboats of one horsepower or less can be used. Canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are popular on the lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, herons, squirrels, bald eagles, and osprey. "Keep an eye on your 'catch' because the crawfish are very active." (User review).Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground features an amphitheater where activities for children are occasionally organized.Winter Activities
Snow occurs commonly from December through March, providing opportunities for winter activities, though none are explicitly mentioned in the reviews or authoritative materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Dogtown Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood use requires approval from host.
- Quiet hours enforced after 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are prevalent during summer months. Gravel roads and rough terrain can pose challenges for vehicles.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are located in nearby Williams, AZ, approximately 15 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May 16 to September 15.
Trash and recyclingThere are dumpsters near the host site for trash disposal. Trash containers near some campsites were locked, requiring campers to use the central dumpsters. "Trash containers were locked so had to go to entrance to dump trash." (User review).
Proximity to water featuresDogtown Lake is adjacent to the campground, offering fishing and boating (electric motors only).
Common complaintsComplaints include: road conditions being rough, lack of RV hookups, crowded sites during weekends, and noise from train horns near Williams.
HostHosts are praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, with comments noting their frequent cleaning and helpful nature.
Campground Map
, WILLIAMS, AZ, 86046, USA
Driving directionsIn Williams, Arizona, turn south onto 4th Street (County Road 73) and drive about 5 miles to Forest Road 140. Turn left and proceed about 4 miles to Forest Road 132. Turn left and proceed 1 mile to Dogtown Campground. Forest Roads 140 and 132 are gravel roads.
Roads leading to the campground are gravel. Several reviews mention the road as rough, with washboard and dust conditions being common. It’s recommended to drive slowly, particularly for RVs and motorhomes.Nearby places
Williams (approx. 15 minutes, 5 miles), Flagstaff (approx. 45 minutes, 36 miles), Grand Canyon National Park South Rim (approx. 1 hour north).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials can be found in Williams, AZ, approximately 15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
238 reviews
Dogtown Lake Campground And Group is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews frequently highlight the cleanliness of the campground, the friendliness of the hosts, and the scenic beauty of the area. However, noise issues and the lack of certain amenities, like showers, are recurring drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 238 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive highlights from user reviews include exceptionally clean vault toilets, helpful and friendly camp hosts, spacious campsites, and the proximity to a picturesque lake. "Vault toilets were...
Based on 238 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints among users include noise disturbances from trains and generators, locked trash containers near campsites, and the lack of swimming in the lake. "You hear train noise all night...
Based on 238 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User recommendations include bringing bug spray for mosquitoes, reserving sites well in advance, and using earplugs to block train noise. "Make sure you have cash for firewood purchases." "The train...
Based on 238 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews mention that the campground fills up on weekends, especially in summer. Winter reviews highlight the scenic frozen lake but note limited accessibility. "We went mid-week this year and it was...
Based on 238 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The vault toilets were cleaner than some hotel rooms I've stayed in!" "The camp hosts were very friendly and helpful." "The lake is pristine, the morning mountain air was intoxicating, and the stars...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate that Loop B is preferred for its spaciousness and proximity to the lake. "Loop B is our favorite." Some sites are noted for privacy, while others are criticized for...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and level pull-through and back-in RV sites make this campground suitable for campers with disabilities. "All sites are accessible."
Based on 238 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews mention issues with unleashed dogs. "My girlfriend, her small dog, my two small dogs & myself were attacked by a dog off its leash while on a walk around Loop B."
Based on 238 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025