Grayling

GRAYLING

Part of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

Overview

Grayling Campground offers perhaps the most secluded sites in the Big Lake Recreation Area in eastern Arizona. It sits on the shoreline of the lake in a mixed conifer and aspen forest and affords visitors many recreational opportunities in a quiet, scenic setting. Popular activities include trout fishing and hiking.

Facilities

All 23 campsites in this small facility are located along one loop. Some sites have a view of the lake, though none are directly on the waterfront. Flush toilets are a comfort of home, and showers can be found one mile away.

A dump station for RV campers is one mile away. A store is also nearby with gas, food, boat rentals and firewood for sale.

Natural Features

Grayling sits in the White Mountains at an elevation of 9,000 feet. It is a very scenic area, forested with ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, spruce and aspen trees, which provide ample shade. Summer temperatures are pleasant and cool, a nice respite from the heat of lower deserts. Visitors should come prepared for cool nighttime temperatures and occasional summer rain storms.

Recreation

The campground is adjacent to 450-acre Big Lake, one of Arizona's top fishing lakes. The lake is known for its trout fishing, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache being the most sought-after species.

The recreation area is also popular for hiking, mountain biking, birding and wildlife viewing. Curious campers can attend educational programs at the recreation area's visitor center.

Nearby Attractions

Visitors can explore endless vistas and take part in many outdoor activities in the surrounding Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, which encompasses 2 million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona and New Mexico. Springerville, Arizona is the closest town to the campground.

Contact Info

For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

Important Notices

  • Standard Single Family sites: Recreation Use Fee allows ONE camping unit ONLY.

  • Extra Vehicles: Cannot be paid for in advance - upon arrival coordinate with the host for payment and where to park.

  • Late Arrivals: campers are not considered a "no-show" until 24 hours after arrival date check in time. Our policy is that your site will not be released before that.

  • FIRST COME FIRST SERVE sites must be booked in person. DO NOT call to determine availability, as they are only available on-site.

  • Opening and closing dates are weather permitting, please call 928-537-8888 for more information.

  • Bears frequent the area; please obey all food storage rules and regulations. Check with your host for details.
  • Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
  • Click here for more information on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
  • This is a high elevation facility; use caution when traveling from lower elevations.

Available Activities

  • WILDLIFE VIEWING - Wildlife Viewing
  • PICNICKING - Picnic Tables
  • HIKING - Hiking
  • FISHING - Fishing
  • INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS - Educational Programs
  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BOATING - Marina
  • BIKING - Mountain Biking

Directions

<p>From Pinetop, Arizona, take Highway 260 east 25 miles to Highway 273 south. Follow Highway 273 south 19 miles to Forest Road 8115 (Big Lake Entrance). Turn right and travel 2 miles. Grayling is on the left.</p>

Contact Information

APACHE-SITGREAVES
AZ

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

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