Bear Canyon Lake
- Bear Canyon Lake
Bear Canyon Lake Camping Area Overview
Bear Canyon Lake Camping Area is tucked deep within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, several miles down a network of forest roads. Despite its remote setting and limited amenities, it remains a popular destination—thanks to the area’s signature feature: Bear Canyon Lake, a picturesque, canyon-lined body of water ideal for fishing, hiking, and relaxing.
The camping area offers numerous spacious campsites spread among tall pine trees on relatively flat ground above the lake. Facilities are minimal, with only vault toilets provided. Campers should plan to pack in and pack out all gear, trash, and drinking water. That said, the scenery and serenity make the trip well worth it.
Getting There
From Payson, head east on Highway 260. Turn left onto Rim Road (FR 300), directly across from the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center. Continue along FR 300 for about 12 miles, where the road begins to veer left. Turn right onto FR 89 and drive north for 2 more miles. The parking and camping area will be on your right.
Road Conditions & Travel Tips
Forest roads in the Rim Lakes area are typically well maintained and accessible to most vehicles. However, during or after heavy rain or snowfall, a high-clearance vehicle may be necessary. Always check conditions before your trip and come prepared for backcountry travel.
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
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
