Dispersed Camping

The majority of campgrounds on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are primitive and offer dispersed camping. You may camp outside of recreational areas anywhere on the Forest at no charge. Potable water, toilets, and other amenities are not generally available. If you choose to camp outside recreational areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. Also, remember if you pack it in, then pack it out, don't leave your trash for others to clean up. No permits are required to camp in Wilderness areas.

Dispersed Camping Areas

Alpine Ranger District
*NOTICE*

Many trails and dispersed camping areas across the Alpine Ranger District have been affected by the Wallow Fire of June 2011. Most areas are currently open to public use and entry, HOWEVER - Many trails and dispersed areas may not be maintained for hazards associated with the fire. Please keep in mind that any area affected by the wildfire can be prone to hazards such as falling trees, flooding and burned out stump holes. The environment you are entering is highly susceptible to rainstorms and wind events. Any time you enter the forest, you should be aware of your environment and changing weather conditions. You are responsible for your own safety! Always look up, look down, and look all around.
Black Mesa Ranger District
Black Mesa Ranger District is the westernmost ranger district on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Located only 2 1/2 hours from the Phoenix Metro area, the district is a popular destination for residents of the valley looking to escape the summer heat.

Guidelines for Target Shooting on The Black Mesa Ranger District

You may NOT discharge a firearm or any other weapon (including paintball guns, air guns, archery, slingshots, etc):
- Within 150 yards of a residence, building, campsite, developed recreation site, or occupied campsite
- Across or on a Forest Developed Road, across a body of water or stream, or across a canyon
- In any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge (36CFR 261.10d)
- With any tracer bullet or incendiary ammunition (36CFR 261.5b)
Choose a remote area with an earthen backdrop. ALWAYS know where your bullets are going. Look at a map, know before you go.

View shooting restrictions within the Black Mesa RD area including the Rim Lakes Recreation Area.

View a map of Rim Lakes restricted shooting area
Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area
Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground
Chevelon Crossing Campground
Fr 169 Campground
Fr 171 Campground
Fr 195 Campground
Fr 237 Camping Area
Fr 84 Camping Area
Fr 9350 Campground
Larson Ridge Camping Area
Clifton Ranger District
Clifton Ranger District
Lakeside Ranger District
Lakeside Ranger District
Brown Creek
Springerville Ranger District
Springerville Ranger District

*NOTICE*

Many trails and dispersed camping areas across the Springerville Ranger District were affected by the Wallow Fire in June 2011. Most areas are currently open to public use and entry, HOWEVER - Many trails and dispersed areas may not be maintained for hazards associated with the fire. Please keep in mind that any area affected by the wildfire can be prone to hazards such as falling trees, flooding and burned out stump holes. The environment you are entering is highly susceptible to rainstorms and wind events. Any time you enter the forest, you should be aware of your environment and changing weather conditions. You are responsible for your own safety! Always look up, look down, and look all around.

At this time the South Fork Campground is open for day use only.

Dispersed Camping

Dispersed Camping Areas

Recreation Areas

Recreation Activities