Buffalo Crossing Campground

Star4.19
18 reviews

Quick Facts

7,949 ft

Price

$3 - $9/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

16 campsites

Season

Not explicitly provi...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Buffalo Crossing Campground
$3.00 - $9.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping prices vary based on location and activities between $3 (in-person) and $9 (contact center). Reservation service fees apply. Potential late...
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Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.19

Satisfactory

Based on 18 reviews

15 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanrestroomsspacioussites

"User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, describing the campground as peaceful and scenic. Commonly mentioned highlights include spacious campsites, the beauty of the East Fork of the Black River, and opportunities for star-gazing and fishing."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Buffalo Crossing Campground

33.7910, -109.3580

Driving directions"Directions from Alpine: Drive two miles north on US Highway 191 to Forest Road 249. Turn west and follow this wide, graveled forest road 5 miles to Forest Road 276. Turn south and follow Forest Road 276 for six miles to the East Fork Recreation Area."
Roads are wide, graveled, and appear generally accessible. Forest Road 249 and Forest Road 276 are unpaved, which may present challenges during certain weather conditions.
Nearby places
Alpine (approximately 13 miles, 20 minutes drive).
Nearby supplies
Alpine is the closest population center for groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Buffalo Crossing Campground

September brings perfect camping weather with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable 75°F before cooling to crisp 44°F nights ideal for campfire gatherings. As winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a serene wonderland where snow blankets the pines and gentle winds carry the quiet magic of the season. The best camping experiences unfold during those golden weeks of clear skies and moderate temperatures, while winter adventurers should prepare for the exhilarating challenge of freezing conditions and occasional snowstorms that showcase nature's dramatic beauty.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Late-summer visits noted; comfortable highs around 75°F and cool nights make summer pleasant.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

September described as 'perfect' with crisp nights (~44°F); many visitors in late summer/fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Riparian setting suggests good spring conditions (wildflowers, flows), though spring reviews are sparse.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Winter conditions are implied by elevation but closure/amenities and winter access aren't provided.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Not explicitly provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Not explicitly provided.

About Buffalo Crossing Campground

Nestled in the southern reaches of the East Fork canyon, Buffalo Crossing Campground offers an enchanting escape within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Here, towering ponderosa pines cast dappled shadows over the most spacious campsites along the river, creating natural rooms where adventure meets tranquility. Each site is embraced by a living tapestry of native grasses, whispering alders, and majestic cottonwoods, transforming your camping experience into an immersion in one of Arizona's most pristine riparian ecosystems.
Buffalo Crossing Campground offers campsites suitable for various uses including tent camping and accommodating small RVs.
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Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Buffalo Crossing Campground can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. Fishing and wildlife viewing are prominent, with the Black River being home to Rainbow and Brown Trout. The scenic and tranquil environment is ideal for relaxation and star-gazing.
FishingFishing is a highlight for many visitors. As one user review mentions, "On my trip we landed Rainbow and Brown Trout." However, another reviewer notes that the creek is better for crawdadding than fishing.
Wildlife viewingThe campground offers significant wildlife viewing opportunities, as noted in user reviews: "Spectacular views and plenty of wildlife to see."
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include challenges for large RVs, as noted by reviews. Wildlife presence is mentioned as part of the natural environment.

Weather at Buffalo Crossing Campground

Reviews

4.2
18 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Buffalo Crossing Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, describing the campground as peaceful and scenic. Commonly mentioned highlights include spacious campsites, the beauty of the East Fork of the Black River, and opportunities for star-gazing and fishing.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious campsites, clean restrooms, easy access to the Black River, and star-filled night skies are highlights.
Based on 18 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers noted that fishing opportunities may not meet expectations, mentioning the creek being more suitable for crawdadding.
Based on 18 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

One reviewer recommends site #11 for its space and proximity to well-maintained bathrooms.
Based on 18 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Users report visiting during the late summer and early fall. Weather during these times is noted as cool and pleasant, with highs around 75°F and lows around 44°F.
Based on 18 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The star-filled night skies at this campground were amazing." - Christopher Emmons 2. "Clean restrooms and drinking water available." - Brad Underwood
Based on 18 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #11 is highly recommended for its size, fire pit, picnic table, and proximity to bathrooms. It is noted to have plenty of overhead cover.
Based on 18 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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