Canyon Point Campground

For Arizonans seeking a true mountain escape, Canyon Point Campground offers a premier destination nestled in the cool, elevated landscapes of the Mogollon Rim. This campground is a favorite among locals for its well-maintained facilities and stunning natural setting. Unlike many primitive campsites, Canyon Point provides a blend of rugged beauty and modern conveniences, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned RVers and families with young children. Here, the air is crisp, the ponderosa pines reach for the sky, and the opportunity for adventure is just a few steps from your campsite.

Situated within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, Canyon Point Campground is a gateway to the high-country wonders of Arizona. The campground itself is located in a mixed forest of towering ponderosa pines and aspens, providing ample shade and a sense of seclusion despite its size. The high elevation, around 7,700 feet, ensures a welcome escape from the intense summer heat of the Phoenix and Tucson areas. This is a place where you can trade the desert sun for a cool breeze and the gentle rustling of pine needles. The terrain is relatively flat and well-laid out, making it easy to navigate for campers of all abilities. The natural beauty of the area is a constant highlight, from the fresh scent of the pines to the potential for spotting local wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of birds.

Canyon Point Campground is conveniently located at 260 Highway, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA. Its prime location places it approximately 31 miles east of Payson and just a couple of miles west of the small community of Forest Lakes. The campground is directly off a paved highway, State Route 260, which makes for a very accessible and easy drive. This is a major advantage for those traveling with large RVs or trailers, as it eliminates the need to navigate rough, unpaved forest roads. The easy access means you can spend less time worrying about the journey and more time enjoying your destination.

While the campground is easily accessible by vehicle, its proximity to nearby towns like Forest Lakes and Overgaard provides a convenient safety net. These small communities offer essentials like gas, groceries, and a few dining options, ensuring that campers are never too far from supplies. The campground's location also places it at the heart of the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, providing direct access to some of the most popular lakes and trails in the region.

The services offered at Canyon Point Campground are a testament to its status as one of the best-equipped campgrounds on the Rim.

• RV Camping and Hookups: The campground is very RV-friendly, with a significant number of sites offering electric hookups. This is a major draw for RVers who want the convenience of power without sacrificing the forest atmosphere. While some sites offer electric hookups, campers should note there are no full RV hookups (sewer/water) at individual sites. However, a dump station and potable water are available within the campground for a fee.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and quality of the campground’s facilities. The restrooms include flush toilets and hot showers, a highly appreciated amenity that sets Canyon Point apart from many other forest campgrounds.

• Accessibility: The campground offers wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, as well as several accessible campsites and restrooms, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by a wider range of visitors.

• Paid Parking and Fees: There is a paid parking lot and a camping fee, which is a common practice for a campground with this level of amenities. Payments can be made with credit or debit cards, a modern convenience that makes the check-in process smooth.

• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are often on-site, providing a sense of security and a valuable resource for questions about the area, rules, and local attractions.

Canyon Point is rich with features that make it a compelling choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

• Hiking: The campground is a fantastic base camp for hikers. A trail leads directly from the campground to a scenic sinkhole and offers access to other trails leading toward the edge of the Mogollon Rim, which provides spectacular views.

• Proximity to Lakes: Canyon Point is a very short drive from two of the most popular fishing and boating lakes in the area: Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs Lake. Both lakes offer excellent opportunities for fishing (trout, bass, and pike), kayaking, canoeing, and non-motorized boating. Woods Canyon Lake even has a marina where you can rent boats.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With well-maintained facilities, kid-friendly hikes, and an amphitheater that often hosts ranger-led programs, the campground is a great place for families. The ability to use showers and flush toilets makes camping with kids much easier and more comfortable.

• Dog-Friendly: The campground welcomes dogs, allowing you to bring your furry family members along for the adventure. As with all public lands, dogs must be kept on a leash.

• Picnics: With well-spaced sites and picnic tables, it's a perfect spot for day visitors to enjoy a picnic in the cool, shaded forest.

For reservations and general information, the primary contact for Canyon Point Campground is through the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests.

Address: 260 Highway, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA

Phone: (928) 535-9859

It is important to note that this is a seasonal campground, typically open from mid-May to mid-October. A portion of the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, which includes weekends and holidays. The campground is part of the national forest system, so information can also be found on the USDA Forest Service website or through a booking service like Recreation.gov.

Choosing Canyon Point Campground is an easy decision for many Arizonans who want a quality camping experience without having to rough it too much.

The exceptional cleanliness of the facilities, as noted in numerous reviews, is a major selling point. The well-maintained restrooms and showers are a significant upgrade from what is typically found in primitive campgrounds and greatly enhance the overall comfort of your stay. The availability of RV electric hookups makes it a great choice for those who want to use their modern appliances while still being surrounded by nature. Its proximity to both Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake means that you have two distinct and beautiful bodies of water to explore, offering endless opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the water.

The campground's family-friendly and pet-friendly policies make it an inclusive and welcoming destination for everyone. With plenty of space between sites, you get a good balance of community and privacy. The helpful and friendly camp hosts add to the positive atmosphere, making guests feel welcomed and secure. In short, Canyon Point Campground provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, convenient amenities, and easy access, solidifying its reputation as a top-tier camping spot on the Mogollon Rim. It truly is a gem for anyone looking to make lasting memories in Arizona's high country.

Canyon Point Campground

260 Highway, Forest Lakes Estates, AZ 85931, USA