Rim Campground
4.5364 reviewsP.O. Box 2337, Overgaard, AZ 85933, USA
Rim Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for standard sites during peak and first-come-first-served seasons is $18. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles ($12) and may include late cancellation penalties.
About this campground
Perched on the dramatic edge of the Mogollon Rim, Rim Campground invites you to experience Arizona's high country like never before. Twenty-six thoughtfully spaced campsites nestle among towering ponderosa pines, where the sweet vanilla scent of pine bark mingles with crisp mountain air. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or settling in with your RV, you'll find modern conveniences including vault toilets, fresh drinking water, and regular trash service. Just three miles down a scenic forest road, Woods Canyon Lake beckons with excellent fishing and peaceful paddling opportunities, making this the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Rim Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and pop-up trailers. All sites are non-electric.
Historical SignificanceWhile the campground itself stands as a gateway to experiencing the timeless grandeur of the Mogollon Rim, this landscape holds countless untold stories whispered through the pines and carried on mountain winds.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect camping climate where summer nights require a light jacket and autumn days invite endless exploration. During peak season, expect gloriously clear skies with daytime temperatures hovering around a comfortable 70°F, while evenings cool to a refreshing 50°F—ideal for campfire gatherings. Mountain breezes occasionally sweep across the rim, and afternoon thunderstorms may roll through, painting dramatic skies and bringing the forest to life with the scent of rain on pine needles. This high-altitude haven offers relief from desert heat, with the camping season stretching through the mild months when wildflowers bloom and aspens begin their golden transformation.
ElevationHigh above the desert floor, the campground sits in the rarified air of the Mogollon Rim's elevated terrain, where the atmosphere is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels like pure mountain magic.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the haunting bugle of elk echoing through cathedral-like stands of ponderosa pines, where shafts of golden sunlight filter through the canopy. The campground's gently rolling terrain makes for easy walking, while the surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of tranquility. As one of nature's most spectacular features, the Mogollon Rim serves as your backyard—a geological masterpiece where the earth dramatically drops away, revealing the rugged beauty of Arizona's diverse landscape stretching endlessly below.
Geological RegionPrepare to be awestruck by your front-row seat to one of Arizona's most magnificent geological wonders. The Mogollon Rim rises like an ancient fortress wall, offering breathtaking 100-mile vistas that stretch across valleys, mesas, and distant mountain ranges. This dramatic escarpment, cloaked in pristine ponderosa pine forests, creates a natural boundary between two worlds—the cool highlands above and the vast expanse below. The relatively gentle terrain atop the rim provides comfortable camping while positioning you perfectly to witness sunrise and sunset performances that paint the landscape in ever-changing hues of gold, crimson, and purple.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are accessible, and the campground features level sites appropriate for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeAll campsites have parallel parking and are approximately 40 feet in length, accommodating tents, pop-up campers, trailers, and motorhomes.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer varying levels of privacy. Some are described as secluded and spacious, while others are noted to be close to neighbors, leading to limited privacy.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter loop campsites provide more privacy and scenic views. Avoid sites near the road to reduce traffic noise.
Best CampsitesSites 14-26 are available for advanced reservation and are described as well-maintained, spacious, and in proximity to scenic trails.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Authoritative source does not specify the guests per site.
Groups
Details about group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout26 sites organized into two loops, each with 13 sites. Sites are parallel parking only, with spacious areas for tents or small RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9 to October 12 for peak season. October 13 to October 30 switches to first-come, first-served camping.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov via app or website for advanced and Scan-and-Pay campsites. First-come, first-served reservations can only be made on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is possible during the first-come, first-served season (October 13 - October 30).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the scheduled arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations involve forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications are allowed with a $10 change fee for new dates; extending stays incurs no extra fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Rim Campground offers opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can engage in hiking, fishing, and boating, with Woods Canyon Lake nearby providing additional recreational options. Observing wildlife such as elk and coyotes is also common.
Hiking
Hiking is a major activity at Rim Campground. The Rim Trail is accessible directly from the campground, offering beautiful views. Some reviewers noted the presence of other trails within a mile or two of the campground.Fishing
Fishing is available at Woods Canyon Lake, located approximately three miles from the campground. The lake is described as a great spot for anglers.Biking
Biking is possible on nearby trails. One user reported riding on the Crook Trail, where an elk accompanied them for a short distance.Boating
Boating is available at Woods Canyon Lake, which offers kayak and boat rentals.Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently observe wildlife such as elk and coyotes. One reviewer noted an elk running alongside their mountain bike.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned for Rim Campground.Water Sports
Visitors can enjoy non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing at Woods Canyon Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings with grills are provided at each site. Fires should be used cautiously during windy conditions.
- Quiet hours are officially designated from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions near the Mogollon Rim can affect campfire safety. Wildlife such as elk and coyotes frequent the area. Ravens causing minor disturbances were noted in reviews.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Overgaard (~20 miles). Specific hospitals or police stations are not listed in authoritative sources.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - October 12, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal facilities are available. Recycling services are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 3 miles from Woods Canyon Lake, offering fishing, boating, and kayak rentals.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include limited bathroom facilities, congestion during peak season, generator noise, and proximity to highway traffic noise.
HostThe camp host, Larry Penny, is frequently praised for his friendly and accommodating demeanor. Larry and his dogs Diesel and Dora add to the welcoming atmosphere.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 2337, Overgaard, AZ 85933, USA
Driving directionsLocated on Road 300 approximately 1 mile off of High 260.
Road 300 is accessible approximately 1 mile from High 260. The campground is described as relatively flat, with easy access for vehicles including tents, pop-up campers, trailers, and motorhomes. All campsites have parallel parking along the road.Nearby places
Overgaard (~20 miles), Payson (~30 miles), Show Low (~40 miles)
approximate travel times depend on road conditions.
Nearby supplies
Some groceries and supplies like boat and kayak rentals, ice, and firewood are available at the Marina Store near Woods Canyon Lake (~3 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
64 reviews
Rim Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, highlighting friendly camp hosts, well-maintained facilities, and proximity to the Rim Trail and Woods Canyon Lake. However, some concerns about noise, generator use, and limited bathroom facilities are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 64 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the clean and spacious campsites, helpful and friendly camp host Larry, and the opportunity to observe wildlife. The campground's proximity to hiking trails and Woods Canyon...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the limited number of bathrooms for the number of sites, generator noise, and the closeness of some campsites leading to reduced privacy. Traffic noise from a nearby highway...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bug spray, booking sites farther from the road for reduced noise, and taking advantage of nearby trails and the lake for activities. One user suggested avoiding sites near...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are busy, with many visitors mentioning congestion and generator noise. Fall is described as quieter and more enjoyable for nature observation.
Based on 64 reviewsCamper Quotes
Quotes include: 'Larry and his dogs, Daisy and Diesel, are welcoming and go above and beyond to make the stay at Rim Campground a fabulous experience.' 'The vault toilets were acceptable.' 'The...
Based on 64 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 22 and 23 are mentioned as spacious but sometimes noisy due to nearby large groups. Site 24 received positive mentions for being close to wildlife viewing areas.
Based on 64 reviewsAccessibility Features
Visitors with mobility challenges appreciated the level sites and accessible vault toilets.
Based on 64 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and campers noted that the camp host enforces leash rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment.
Based on 64 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025