How much does camping cost at Cutthroat?

Camping fees at Cutthroat are $26/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cutthroat first-come first-served or reservation?

Cutthroat accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cutthroat before I book?

Yes! Cutthroat has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cutthroat?

Cutthroat is open May 15 to October 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cutthroat?

Cutthroat does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Cutthroat?

Fire policies at Cutthroat: Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cutthroat have?

Cutthroat has 18 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cutthroat?

Pets are not allowed at Cutthroat. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Cutthroat?

Cutthroat offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cutthroat?

Popular activities at Cutthroat include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cutthroat

4.49

117 reviews

APACHE-SITGREAVES

B-Report Card

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fishing Camping Arizona Primitive Camping Arizona Boating Camping Arizona

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16 - Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16 - Septem...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Cutthroat

$26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $26.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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Provider

928-735-7313camping@rrmofa.com

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

APACHE-SITGREAVES

Cutthroat

APACHE-SITGREAVES

Nearby places

25 miles from Pinetop (approximately 30 minutes by car), 25 minutes from Greer.

Weather at Cutthroat

Current alerts(9)

Bears frequent the area; please obey all food storage rules and regulations. Check with your host for details.
Click here for more information on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.
Extra Vehicles: Cannot be paid for in advance - upon arrival coordinate with the host for payment and where to park.
FIRST COME FIRST SERVE sites must be booked in person. DO NOT call to determine availability, as they are only available on-site.

Best Time to Camp at Cutthroat

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest combination of comfortable high‑country weather and full access to Big Lake — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. This is when boating, rainbow trout fishing, hiking, biking, and abundant wildlife viewing are at their peak, with the lake fully ice‑free and trails clear. Afternoon monsoon storms are possible in July–August and weekends/holiday periods are the busiest, but overall summer offers the most reliable outdoor opportunities at Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: comfortable highs 60–75°F, full lake access and peak activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 16 - September 18 for peak season reservations. First-come, first-served season runs September 19 - October 31.

About Cutthroat

Cutthroat sits at high elevation in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, operated by Recreation Resource Management of America and serving as a gateway to Big Lake's rainbow trout fishing and boating. The small campground offers tent and primitive options alongside developed sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and a dump station. Summer brings comfortable daytime temperatures in the 60s–70s, crisp nights, and full lake access for anglers and paddlers, with camp hosts maintaining clean facilities and enforcing a strict no-show policy.

Cutthroat Campground is tent-only, offering 18 individual sites scattered across a sloped wooded area. It is ideal for those seeking a quiet, rustic camping experience close to nature.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest combination of comfortable high‑country weather and full access to Big Lake — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and crisp nights in the 30s–40s. This is when boating, rainbow trout fishing, hiking, biking, and abundant wildlife viewing are at their peak, with the lake fully ice‑free and trails clear. Afternoon monsoon storms are possible in July–August and weekends/holiday periods are the busiest, but overall summer offers the most reliable outdoor opportunities at Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation9000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a volcanic-origin landscape where ponderosa pine, spruce, Douglas fir, and aspen grow together in rare combination. Big Lake spreads out below the sites, its waters stocked with rainbow trout. Elk visit the shore at dawn. The forest creates dappled shade across uneven terrain, and afternoon light catches the lake's surface in a way that makes the scramble down to the waterfront worth it. Some sites perch directly above the water. Others sit back in the trees on sloped ground that challenges tent setup but pays off in privacy.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground is tent-only, with no hotel-style lodging or cabins available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 8 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe steep slope of the campground and the need to carry gear uphill may pose challenges for less-mobile visitors. One reviewer stated, 'The only downside we had to carry all of our gear uphill. We are seniors, it was hard for us.

Site SizeSome sites are described as spacious, with enough room for large tents or setups. However, other reviews note smaller sites with uneven ground, such as, 'The sites closest to the lake have parking on the main road. Very large sites.

PrivacySites are spaced a good distance apart to ensure privacy, though some campers have complained about sites being too close together in certain areas: 'Small sites sitting right on top of each other. If you like hearing your neighbors snoring and have NO privacy, then this is your place!

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose waterfront sites for scenic views. Set up camp during daylight due to layout challenges.

Best CampsitesSite 3 gets mentioned for water proximity. The waterfront sites. Accessed from the lower road. Offer the best lake views, though parking happens on the main road and you'll carry gear downhill. Those sites are described as very large. Upper sites trade views for easier parking and more level ground.

Need help booking Cutthroat?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Cutthroat Campground is a tent-only facility located at an elevation of 9,000 feet on the shoreline of Big Lake in the White Mountains of eastern Arizona. Basic amenities include restrooms, picnic tables, and drinking water. Some campsites are directly on the waterfront and are scattered to ensure privacy. The facility also has access to a boat ramp for anglers and boaters, and an RV dump station is available one mile away. The camp hosts are described as friendly and helpful.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

Things to do at Cutthroat

Cutthroat Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy trout fishing in Big Lake, hiking, mountain biking, birding, and wildlife viewing. The scenic beauty of the area, with its forested surroundings and cool summer weather, enhances the outdoor experience.

Fishing4.0/5

Big Lake stocked with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache trout; fishing cited as a main draw.

Boating4.0/5

On‑site boat ramp and nearby rentals; boating explicitly supported and noted in descriptions.

Water Sports4.0/5

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation, low cell reception and quiet setting suggest good dark‑sky potential.

Photography4.0/5Lake overlooks, aspen/forest mix and wildlife sightings make for strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Cutthroat

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From Booking Sources

4.5

117 reviews

Recommended

Cutthroat is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

The campground is praised for its scenic views, cleanliness, and friendly camp hosts. Common themes include the beauty of the lake, the peaceful setting, and the well-maintained facilities. Some negative comments focus on uneven ground, parking challenges, and lack of privacy in certain areas.

Review Summaries

Based on 117 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 117 reviews.

Site 3Mentioned
Site 3: 'Was really nice and so very close to the water.' - Patrick Williams. 2.
Site 9Mentioned
Site 9: 'The site for our tent was not level and it was very very dusty.' - Ken B. 3.
Site 10Mentioned
Site 10: 'The campsite was small and we had to rent another one.' - C M

What Campers Love

Friendly and helpful camp hosts; clean and well-maintained facilities; proximity to Big Lake; great fishing opportunities; peaceful and quiet ambiance; excellent hiking and wildlife viewing.

Based on 117 reviews

Common Concerns

Steep slopes and uneven ground; some campsites are small and closely packed; parking not directly at campsites; lack of cell phone reception; strict enforcement of rules by rangers.

Based on 117 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring rain gear during the summer monsoon season; prepare for cool nighttime temperatures; carry cash for firewood purchases; plan for hikes in advance due to lack of cell signal; consider the...

Based on 117 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular time to visit, with cool temperatures and abundant outdoor activities. However, monsoon rains and hailstorms are common during this period. Winter activities are not...

Based on 117 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Very clean and well kept. Lots of wildlife, great view of the lake and very spacious campsites.' - Jessica Thomas 2. 'Be prepared that breathing is not easy when physically exerting one's self,...

Based on 117 reviews

Accessibility Features

The steep terrain and uphill walks to certain campsites make this campground less accessible for seniors or individuals with mobility challenges. One reviewer noted, 'We are seniors, it was hard for...

Based on 117 reviews

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Cutthroat

$26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $26.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

928-735-7313camping@rrmofa.com

Go if

You want alpine summer camping near productive trout water and don't mind sloped sites or afternoon monsoons.

Skip if

You need level sites with privacy screens or want to avoid strict ranger enforcement and dusty conditions.

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Apache Trout Campground

Apache Sitgreaves National Forest, Springerville, AZ 85938, USA

Apache Trout Campground sits at high elevation in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Springerville, operated by Recreation Resource Management of America. The large campground offers full hookups for RVs, tent sites, and group camping among alpine pines, with showers, a camp store, and a boat launch. Summer brings cool days, chilly nights, and afternoon monsoon storms that light up the high country, while anglers work the lakes for trout.

Cutthroat

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Cutthroat

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About Cutthroat

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Amenities available

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Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Cutthroat

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Cutthroat?

Amenities available

Things to do at Cutthroat

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns