Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

4.29

65 reviews

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,800 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping is free; there are no fees charged for camping within the campground.

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

4.29

Satisfactory

Based on 65 reviews

62 Google reviews

Most mentioned

views

Some mention

crowded

"User reviews emphasize the rugged beauty and remote nature of the campground. Common themes include the challenging hike to the lake, the pristine natural environment, and the lack of amenities."

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Campground Map

Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

Driving directionsTravel for 25 miles south on Forest Road 34 to Forest Road 504, continue south on 504 to Forest Road 169. Follow 169 to 169B, then east (left) to the campground. From the south proceed north on Forest Road 300 to 169. Continue north on 169 to 169B, turn east (right) and follow 169B to campground.

The main road to access the lake is good for most vehicles, but the smaller road to the campground requires at least an SUV due to rough terrain, including washed-out sections and steep inclines. The road is not cleared in winter.

Nearby places

Winslow, Arizona (approximately 25 miles south)

Nearby supplies

Null

Best Time to Camp at Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformation of this high-country paradise, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and transforms the campground into a frozen wonderland. As spring awakens the forest, crisp mornings give way to comfortable days, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures from late spring through early fall. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days without the scorching heat of lower elevations, while autumn paints the canyon in golden hues. Pack layers for those chilly winter and early spring visits when temperatures can plunge well below freezing, rewarding hardy campers with serene, crowd-free experiences.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

High-country summer offers pleasant weather and activities; busier on holidays/weekends.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in AZ

High-country seasonal transformation and crisp fall conditions make it especially appealing.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring brings snowmelt and change; access and conditions can be variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Winter is scenic and serene but access road isn't cleared; 4WD/ATV recommended.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round but the access road is not cleared in winter.
Current Alerts: Null

About Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

Escape to the hidden gem of Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground, where adventure meets tranquility without the price tag. This free camping haven invites you to pitch your tent among pristine dispersed sites, each thoughtfully equipped with fire rings for those magical evenings under starlit skies. Whether you're casting a line into the crystalline waters, exploring winding trails that reveal breathtaking vistas, or simply savoring the peaceful solitude far from crowded tourist spots, this off-the-beaten-path sanctuary promises an authentic wilderness experience that reconnects you with nature's simple pleasures.

Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground offers rustic camping options with designated sites, fire rings, and vault toilets. It is first-come, first-served and free of charge.

Historical SignificanceNull

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of this high-country paradise, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and transforms the campground into a frozen wonderland. As spring awakens the forest, crisp mornings give way to comfortable days, creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures from late spring through early fall. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days without the scorching heat of lower elevations, while autumn paints the canyon in golden hues. Pack layers for those chilly winter and early spring visits when temperatures can plunge well below freezing, rewarding hardy campers with serene, crowd-free experiences.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,800 feet above sea level, this mountain retreat offers a refreshing escape from desert heat and a natural air conditioning system courtesy of Mother Nature. The high-altitude setting creates a cooler microclimate that's perfect for summer camping, though first-time visitors should take it easy for a day or two while their bodies adjust to the thinner air. This elevated paradise rewards those who venture upward with crisp, clean mountain air and temperatures that can be 20-30 degrees cooler than the valleys below.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living tapestry where towering ponderosa pines stretch skyward, their vanilla-scented bark telling stories of centuries past, while hardy junipers and aromatic pinyon pines dot the landscape with their distinctive silhouettes. The true showstopper awaits at the canyon's edge, where dramatic vistas of Chevelon Canyon unfold in layers of ancient rock and shadow. This diverse ecological wonderland creates endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and quiet contemplation as the interplay of forest and canyon creates ever-changing scenes of natural beauty throughout the day.

Geological RegionNestled within the vast wilderness of Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, this 6,800-foot perch showcases nature's architectural prowess through dramatic canyon walls that plunge into shadowy depths below. The landscape tells a million-year story written in stone, where ancient geological forces carved steep canyon walls that now frame your camping experience. Rocky paths wind through a botanical showcase of ponderosa pine, juniper, and pinyon pine forests, creating a diverse ecosystem that changes with every turn of the trail. This rugged terrain offers both challenge and reward, inviting explorers to discover hidden viewpoints and secret spots where the forest meets the sky.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

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Check-out

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Stay Limit

14 day stay limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Null

Groups

No specific information on group camping.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground is dispersed with semi-established sites, including fire rings and picnic tables.

Reservation PlatformsNull

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first come, first serve; no reservations possible.

Cancellation PolicyNull

AccessibilityAccessibility options for disabled campers are not detailed; however, steep and rough terrain may make it difficult for those with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThe sites are large in the campsite area." - User review by Elizabeth Gordon.

PrivacyVery secluded," as described in a review by Dan & Bri's Adventures.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesFor easier access and better amenities, site #1 is recommended. Avoid sites near noisy groups with ATVs.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground offers various recreational activities including fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The area is also known for birdwatching and stargazing.

HikingThe hike to the lake is approximately 1.1 miles with a 600-foot elevation change, characterized by steep and rocky sections. "The hike down is slippery, be careful!" - User review by michael tichonuk.

FishingFishing is popular at the lake, with limits on trout (two per person). "You can only fish with artificial bait, no live bait." - User review by Mark Handley.

BoatingBoat motors up to 8 HP are allowed. "Most recommended bringing a dinghy or kayak to be able to go out on the water for better fishing." - User review by Duffy Elmer.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to various species, including minnows, crayfish, and water snakes. "The canyon is quite beautiful however, with lots of bird life and excellent night skies." - User review by Duffy Elmer.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rough terrain, steep trails to the lake, and no cell phone service. Wildlife such as snakes may be present near the lake. Additionally, dehydration and heat exhaustion are risks during strenuous hikes.

Active AlertsNull

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed at designated sites with fire rings. Visitors are advised to extinguish fires completely before leaving.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null

Emergency ServicesNull

Trash & Recycling"NO trash collection available. This is a Pack-it-in / Pack-it-out area. Take your trash with you when you leave." - Official source.

Water FeaturesThe campground is located approximately one mile from Chevelon Canyon Lake, which is accessible via a steep and rocky trail.

Camp HostNo camp hosts are available.

Weather at Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground

Reviews

4.3

65 reviews

Satisfactory

Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews emphasize the rugged beauty and remote nature of the campground. Common themes include the challenging hike to the lake, the pristine natural environment, and the lack of amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 65 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the secluded nature, beautiful views, and stargazing opportunities. "The stars were fabulous." - Elizabeth Gordon. "Solitude was grand!" - Michael Tichonuk.

Based on 65 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the rough road conditions leading to the campground, the steep hike to the lake, and occasional lack of site cleanliness due to inconsiderate campers. "The road is rough...

Based on 65 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring adequate water, sturdy hiking shoes, and be prepared for cold nights. "It gets super cold at night so prepare well." - Dinesh. "Bring a 4-wheeler/ATV." - Duffy Elmer.

Based on 65 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is more crowded during holidays and weekends. It is particularly serene during winter, but access can be difficult due to snow. "Very secluded, even on the busiest weekends." - Dan &...

Based on 65 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Camping areas are very nice but not in abundance. So quiet and desolate even on the busiest of weekends." - Dan & Bri's Adventures. "Hike down is slippery, be careful!" - Michael Tichonuk....

Based on 65 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

One user recommended site #1 for its two fire rings, a metal picnic table, and shaded areas. "We camped in site #1 which had 2 fire rings, a metal picnic table, and large trees to provide shaded...

Based on 65 reviews

Accessibility Features

The steep and rocky trail to the lake poses challenges, especially for older adults or families with young children. "Not recommended for small children unless you are prepared to carry them." - Mark...

Based on 65 reviews

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