Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
- Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
Campground Overview:
Bear Canyon Lake Camping Area is located deep in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Despite being several miles down dirt roads and having few amenities, it draws many visitors. The main attraction is Bear Canyon Lake, a beautiful, canyon-bound lake. The camping area include numerous, spacious campsites spread out among the pines, in a relatively flat area above the Lake. Bathroom facilitates are provided, but that’s about it. Be prepared to pack in, pack out all gear and water. I was quite impressed with this area and would recommend making the trip.
The majority of campgrounds on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are primitive and offer dispersed camping. You may camp outside of developed campgrounds anywhere on the Forest at no charge. Potable water, toilets, and other amenities are not generally available. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in Wilderness areas. These forest road campsites, located around the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, are also a great backup when the designated campgrounds are full. This area is one of the most popular recreation areas in Arizona.
From Payson, travel east on Hwy 260, turn left on Rim Rd (Fr 300) across from the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center. Continue on Fr 300 for approximately 12 miles, the road will begin to veer left. Turn right on Fr 89 and continue north for 2 miles, parking area will be on the right hand side.
While the majority of the forest roads in the area are well maintained and used frequently, during snow or heavy rain, a high clearance vehicle may be required. Always use common sense and be prepared.
Campground at a Glance
Level: |
Semi-Developed |
Season: |
Year-Round |
Nearby City: |
Payson |
Fishing: |
Bear Canyon Lake |
Campground Website: |
Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area |
Campground Map: |
Rim Lakes Recreation Area |
Reservations: |
First-come, first-served basis |
Location: |
Nearby Attractions and Activities:
Bear Canyon Lake At an elevation of 7,560, Bear Canyon Lake consists of 60 surface acres with a maximum depth of 50 feet. Because of its depth, this lake has no water quality problems. The Arizona Department of Game and Fish stocks it with catchable-sized rainbow trout about six times each year. Numerous trails are available to explore the lake and surrounding area.
Rim Lakes Recreation Area is one of our favorite summertime locations in Arizona located in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Perched atop the Mogollon Rim at an elevation of 7,700 ft and located just two hours from the Phoenix Valley, this recreational area is a great location where you can “beat the heat” and take part in a host of low-cost recreational activities that everyone in the family can enjoy.
- Rim Lakes Recreation Area- Woods Canyon Lake
The Rim Lakes Area enjoys magnificent weather during the summertime. From June to August, daytime temperatures typically range between 68 and 80 degrees with nighttime temperatures falling to between 45 and 59 degrees. Temperatures drop quite a bit in late September with nighttime temperatures often dropping to below freezing. July through early September marks the monsoon season in Arizona with the Mogollon Rim getting more than its fair share of rainfall.
The area is covered with thick forests of Douglas-fir and Ponderosa pine and features three man-made lakes: Woods Canyon, Willow Springs, and Bear Canyon Lakes. The lakes provide much of the area’s appeal. All three are open to boating, swimming, and fishing. Woods Canyon is the most popular and can get quite busy during the summer, especially on weekends. A well-stocked general store and boat rentals are available at Woods Canyon Lake
The Rim Lakes Recreation Area is connected with numerous trails that bring hikers around the campgrounds, lakes, and also along the Mogollon Rim. Some of the more popular routes include: Woods Canyon Lake Trail, Meadow Trail, Rim Lake Vista Trail #622, and the famed General Crook Trail #130.
Nearby Campgrounds:
Campground full or want to see what’s around? Try one of these campgrounds located nearby
