Schoolhouse Campground (Az)
3.7753 reviews28079 N. AZ HWY 188
Schoolhouse Campground (Az)
$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 range from $20 to $40 depending on the season and site type. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Tucked away from the crowds, Schoolhouse Campground offers an intimate escape where the shimmering waters of Roosevelt Lake serve as your backyard. This peaceful retreat invites you to trade city noise for desert silence, with easy access to swimming, boating, and fishing adventures just moments from your tent.
The campground is versatile with provisions for RVs, trailers, and tent campers. It also includes double campsites for larger groups.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the surrounding landscape, where the engineering marvel of Roosevelt Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century ambition. Just a short drive away, the ancient cliff dwellings of Tonto National Monument tell stories of the Salado people who called these hills home 700 years ago, offering campers a chance to walk in the footsteps of history.
Weather and SeasonsWhile summer brings the intense heat of the Sonoran Desert, with mercury soaring past 100°F, winter transforms this campground into a sun-kissed paradise. From November through March, mild days and cool nights create perfect conditions for hiking, stargazing, and gathering around the campfire without breaking a sweat.
ElevationPerched at 2,100 feet in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, the campground sits at the sweet spot where desert floor meets mountain country, offering cooler temperatures than the valley below while maintaining the dramatic desert landscape that defines this corner of Arizona.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient mesquite trees cast dappled shade across your campsite, while iconic saguaro cacti stand sentinel against painted desert sunsets. The rugged mountains frame expansive views of Roosevelt Lake's blue waters, creating a stunning contrast against the earth-toned landscape. Desert wildlife, from roadrunners to javelinas, share this spectacular terrain where every sunrise and sunset becomes a memorable show.
Geological RegionThe Sonoran Desert reveals its raw beauty here, where weathered mountains tell stories written in stone over millions of years. Mesquite bosques line the washes, while native plants like palo verde, ocotillo, and barrel cactus create a living museum of desert adaptation. This unique ecosystem, where ancient geology meets thriving desert life, offers campers an authentic taste of Arizona's wild heart.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible campsites with paved parking and accessible stand-up grills.
Sites SizeSites are spacious and can accommodate up to 10 individuals and 3 vehicles for individual sites, and up to 20 individuals and 6 vehicles for double sites.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as spacious, but some users note limited privacy due to proximity to other sites. 'Spaces are a bit too close to one another for my liking.'
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake are praised for views, while others prefer quieter interior spots for solitude.
Best CampsitesCampsite 203 is noted for lake views and proximity to the boat ramp.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Individual sites allow up to 10 individuals
- double sites allow up to 20 individuals.
Groups
Double campsites can accommodate up to 20 individuals and 6 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOrganized in a single loop (Mesquite Loop) with pull-through and paved sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 through December 31 annually, with reservations available starting November 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during off-peak season from May 1 to October 31.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed until the day before arrival but incur a $10 fee. Late cancellation adds forfeiture of first night's fees.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, kayaking, hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and photography. 'Schoolhouse Campground provides easy access to Roosevelt Lake, ideal for motorized and non-motorized boating.'
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available around Roosevelt Lake and nearby areas. However, one review mentions, 'I wish they had some hiking trails.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity with species such as Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Crappie, Sunfish, Channel, and Flathead Catfish available. Some reviews note limited bank fishing options due to brush.Biking
Biking is listed as an available activity, but there are no detailed descriptions of specific trails.Boating
The campground offers a paved boat ramp and dock for motorized and non-motorized boating. 'Excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as an attraction, with sightings of native Sonoran Desert species and birds. 'Marvelous birds, especially in winter.'Winter Activities
Winter activities like bird watching and enjoying the lake are noted during the quieter off-season.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular. A user mentions, 'I recommend this lake to anybody who enjoys kayaking or being on a lake.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits unless fire bans are in effect.
- Quiet hours are not strictly enforced, leading to noise complaints from generators and music.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife, including predators, is present. Extreme summer heat and generator noise are notable concerns.
Active alertsNo specific alerts at this time, but users mention bathroom maintenance and occasional construction.
Weather forecast
99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.1 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
Nearest emergency and ranger services are located in Tonto Basin Ranger District. Hospital services are likely found in Globe, AZ.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 through March 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available. 'Please use trash receptacles when available.' Campers are advised to 'pack it in, pack it out.'
Proximity to water featuresClose to Roosevelt Lake, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of water, noisy generators, bathroom cleanliness, and overgrown vegetation obscuring views.
HostCamp host availability is inconsistent, according to user reviews.
Campground Map
28079 N. AZ HWY 188
Driving directionsFrom Mesa: Take the State Hwy. 87/Beeline Highway north for about 60 miles to the junction with State Hwy. 88. Continue on State Hwy. 88 south for 8 miles to Forest Road (FR) 447/Schoolhouse Recreation Site. Turn left and continue for 4 miles to the site. From Globe: Take State Hwy. 188 north for 20 miles to its junction with Forest Road (FR) 447/Schoolhouse Recreation Site, turn right and continue for 4 miles to the site.
Roads are accessible year-round, with paved access routes leading to the campground. Seasonal conditions may affect travel due to high temperatures or maintenance activities.Nearby places
Mesa (72 miles), Globe (24 miles), Payson (51 miles)
Nearby supplies
Spring Creek Store near the campground offers camping supplies, groceries, and other essentials. Additional supplies available in Globe, AZ.
Camper Reviews
3.8
53 reviews
Schoolhouse Campground (Az) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Schoolhouse Campground are mixed, with positive comments about its proximity to Roosevelt Lake and negative remarks focusing on maintenance issues and noise levels.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the 'quiet and peaceful' setting, the campground’s cleanliness, and convenient access to outdoor activities like boating and fishing. 'Clean and level sites, easy pull in/out.'
Based on 53 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints include issues with generator noise and the lack of potable water. Additionally, many reviewers found the bathrooms dirty and poorly maintained. 'Bathrooms were sketchy and gross.'
Based on 53 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
'Bring water as none is available on site.' 'Consider visiting during the off-season for a quieter experience.'
Based on 53 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter is highlighted as the best season due to fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Summer sees extreme heat and more crowded conditions.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Very peaceful and quiet and nice. I recommend this late to anybody who enjoys kayaking.' 'Camp sites were fairly level and clean. Fire rings are well maintained.'
Based on 53 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 203 is noted as 'the last spot in the campground closest to the lake.' Users of site 191 commented on generator noise, while site 205 reviewers mentioned issues with mobile data connectivity.
Based on 53 reviewsAccessibility Features
Users note accessible features such as paved parking and grills but criticize the lack of potable water and the condition of restrooms.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific pet-related reviews or features are detailed.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025