Apache Trout Campground

Return To Campground Index

Campground Information

Apache Trout Campground

Region: Big Lake

Best for: RV camping, families, groups, anglers and campers seeking more developed facilities

Camping and fishing at Big Lake

Apache Trout Campground is the largest and most developed camping option at Big Lake Recreation Area. It is especially popular with families, groups and RV travelers who want convenient access to Big Lake while retaining the atmosphere of a high-country forest campground.
 
The campground is located a short walk or drive from the approximately 450-acre lake. Big Lake is widely known for trout fishing, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache trout among the species sought by anglers. The surrounding recreation area also supports hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
 
Apache Trout contains individual and group camping areas distributed among several loops. Depending on the particular site, campers may find space for tents, trailers or large recreational vehicles. Some sites offer utility connections, but hookups and equipment limits vary significantly by campsite and should be verified when reserving.

Quick Facts:

🏕 Number of Campsites: 122

📏 Max RV Length: 80 ft.

🐕 Pets: Yes

💧 Drinking Water: Yes

🚻 Flush Toilets: Yes

⛰ Elevation: 9100 ft.

🧺 Picnic Tables: Yes

🚿 Showers: Yes

🔥 Fire Ring: Yes

🌊 Lake Access: Yes

🚻 Vault Toilets: No

🏪 General Store: Yes

🚤 Boat Rentals: Yes

🎣 Lake Fishing: Yes

🏞️ Stream Fishing: No

Latitude: 33.86893334

Longitude: -109.41659167

📅 Reservations: Yes - (If "No" then first come - first served)

Additional Details:

This is a scenic area, forested with ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, spruce and aspen interspersed with high elevation meadows.

Good to know: This is generally the best Big Lake option for campers with larger RVs or those seeking the broadest selection of amenities. Individual site dimensions and hookup availability must be checked before booking.

Potable water is seasonal be prepared.
A store is also nearby with gas, food, boat rentals and firewood for sale.

Pets must be restrained or on a leash.

Directions:

Apache Trout Campground is located in the Big Lake Recreation Area.

From Eagar: Go 5 miles west on State Route 260 turn south on State Route 261 go 29 miles to Sate Route 273, turn west go about 3 miles, Big Lake Recreational Area will be on the west side.

From Show Low, Arizona: take Highway 260 east for 42 miles to Highway 273. Take Highway 273 south for 30 miles Big Lake Recreational Area will be on the west side.

Helpful Links

Campsite Reservations

USFS Information

Google Map

Return To Campground Index

Discover More White Mountain Adventures

Raising Children On A Mountain Homestead

Raising Children On A Mountain Homestead

by | May 30, 2026 | ,

Photography by Jonathan Austen If you have considered a move to the country, or raising your children in a rural homestead setting, but have never been here, this is a great time to venture out. You won't want to miss the trip to discover a totally different world,...

Return To Campground Index