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Big Lake Recreation Area
Public Campground

Big Lake Recreation Area

Alpine, Arizona
4.6 (148 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Big Lake Recreation Area

If getting completely away from it all and experiencing the outdoors for all it has to offer is your camping ideal then plan your camping vacation in the Big Lake Recreation Area. Big Lake itself is 575 acres, and makes a convenient base for other local lakes like Crescent Lake, Lee Valley Lake and the East and West Forks of the Black River. Choose your site from one of nine campgrounds and experience exceptional hiking and mountain biking trails, wildlife viewing, and trout fishing. Campers hav

Big Lake Recreation Area offers a refreshing escape into Arizona's high country, where pine forests meet pristine waters in a setting that feels worlds away from the desert heat. Located at elevation in the White Mountains, this public campground provides RV travelers with a genuinely rewarding outdoor experience that captures the natural beauty Arizona is known for.

The lake itself is the crown jewel of this recreation area. Anglers will find excellent fishing opportunities, with the waters regularly stocked and teeming with rainbow trout, making it a destination for both seasoned fishing enthusiasts and families looking to introduce children to the sport. Whether you prefer casting from the shore or launching a boat, the calm waters provide the perfect setting for a peaceful day outdoors. The cooler mountain temperatures at this elevation make summer camping comfortable and enjoyable, a welcome contrast to Arizona's typically scorching heat.

Beyond fishing, the recreation area serves as a basecamp for exploring some of Arizona's most scenic terrain. Hiking trails wind through surrounding forests, offering options ranging from leisurely walks to more challenging day hikes. The abundance of wildlife and natural vegetation creates excellent opportunities for nature photography and bird watching. The forested landscape provides ample shade, a precious commodity in Arizona, making outdoor activities throughout the day more enjoyable.

The campground itself is well-maintained and accommodates RVs while preserving the natural character of the area. Camping here means waking to the sounds of nature and breathing crisp mountain air, creating memories that extend far beyond typical Arizona desert camping. The community of visitors drawn to Big Lake tends to be appreciative of outdoor recreation, creating a welcoming atmosphere among fellow campers.

This location appeals to families seeking a summer retreat, fishing enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience Arizona's diverse landscapes. The elevation provides relief from heat while the recreational opportunities ensure there's always something to do, whether you're active and adventurous or preferring to relax by the water.
4.6

Rating

148

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Alpine is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Arizona weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Alpine.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Alpine. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Big Lake Recreation Area Reviews

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Brian “Hydro” Maddix

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Brian “Hydro” Maddix

Clean, we'll spaced-out campsites. Clean latrine, showers, and a dish station. Beautiful area, good hiking nearby. Multiple latrine buildings. Assuming all identical, 6 rooms, 3 for women and 3 for men. Of those 3 pairs, two include showers. They lock the showers, so those are only available between 7 AM and 7 PM, camp host hours. Something to be aware of.

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Steve Thomson

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Steve Thomson

We stayed one night on September 3, 2025. Beautiful wilderness at 9,200 feet high! The air was cool and crisp when we woke in the morning and perfect all day for long jeans and a sweatshirt. It takes about three days to get your lungs acclimated to this altitude, unfortunately for us, we were only there one day. No there was no signal from Verizon or T-Mobile. I think only Starlink users could con... We stayed one night on September 3, 2025. Beautiful wilderness at 9,200 feet high! The air was cool and crisp when we woke in the morning and perfect all day for long jeans and a sweatshirt. It takes about three days to get your lungs acclimated to this altitude, unfortunately for us, we were only there one day. No there was no signal from Verizon or T-Mobile. I think only Starlink users could contact the free world from here. We stayed in site 60, nearby our friendly camp hosts. 41 sites were full hook up, only those in the Aspen loop.

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William Satterthwaite

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by William Satterthwaite

Had a great time, the camp hosts were very helpful and courteous. Camp was well kept with lots of space to roam. Short walk to the Big Lake.

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Daniel Cervantes

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Daniel Cervantes

Great Fishing 🎣 trip. Our camp hosts were awesome, and ⚠️ us about Dorothy the skunk and others. The restrooms were clean and the showers were awesome. The park all around was clean and felt very safe. We had double-side full RV hook-ups, this was fantastic. Will be back in a few months. The temperature was about 39 -40 at night and during the day was mid-60s. Our families loved this campgro... Great Fishing 🎣 trip. Our camp hosts were awesome, and ⚠️ us about Dorothy the skunk and others. The restrooms were clean and the showers were awesome. The park all around was clean and felt very safe. We had double-side full RV hook-ups, this was fantastic. Will be back in a few months. The temperature was about 39 -40 at night and during the day was mid-60s. Our families loved this campground. ❤️ Thank you.

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Billie Smith

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Billie Smith

Wonderfully maintained park. Great camp spots and so many hiking trails nearby. You will need starlink if you want internet.

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