Explore Free Camping Options in Black Mesa Ranger District: Your Ultimate Guide
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Black Mesa Ranger District within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, where outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in nature’s splendor. With over 1.5 million acres of diverse landscapes, this district boasts a multitude of camping options, from well-equipped campgrounds to peaceful free camping spots. Popular campgrounds such as Forest Lakes and Black Mesa provide amenities including restrooms and picnic tables, making them ideal for family adventures. For those seeking solitude, the expansive forest offers primitive camping areas that allow you to reconnect with nature in serene settings. Whether you enjoy hiking along the extensive trail system or fishing in pristine lakes, Black Mesa has something for everyone. Experience the magic of this unique corner of Arizona, where every campsite tells its own story amidst the towering pines and stunning vistas.

















Aspen Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 20 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,618 feet. There are a total of 132 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid April to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 36 and 72 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $34.00 per night. Some amenities include dump station, amphitheater. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Black Canyon Rim Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 26 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,625 feet. There are a total of 20 campsites including 1 boat site. The campground is normally open from the end of April to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 21 and 45 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $20.00 per night.
Canyon Point Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 18 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,687 feet. There are a total of 102 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 45 and 99 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring with grill. 32 sites have electric hookups. Fees range from $34.00 to $245.00. Some amenities include shower, sewer hookup, restroom, flush toilets. Activities include hiking trails.
Crook Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 16 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,621 feet. There are a total of 2 campsites. The campground is normally open from the end of April to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $315.00 per night. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.
Mogollon Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 17 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,650 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is normally open from the end of April to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 32 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $18.00 per night.
Rim Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 12 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,560 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is normally open from the end of April to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 32 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $18.00 per night. Activities include boating, fishing, floating sports.
Sinkhole Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 12 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,556 feet. There are a total of 13 campsites. The campground is normally open from the end of April to the end of October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 35 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Prices start at $24.00 per night.
Spillway Campground is located in the Black Mesa Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests (2 hrs 19 min northeast of Scottsdale, AZ) with an elevation of 7,519 feet. There are a total of 24 campsites. The campground is normally open from mid May to mid October. Sites can accommodate RVs and trailers between 23 and 99 feet. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Fees range from $34.00 to $185.00. Some amenities include amphitheater. Activities include boating, fishing, hiking trails, floating sports.