How much does camping cost at Rainbow?

Camping fees at Rainbow range from $33.97-$110/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Rainbow first-come first-served or reservation?

Rainbow 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 Rainbow before I book?

Yes! Rainbow has 12 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 Rainbow?

Rainbow 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 Rainbow?

Yes, Rainbow has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Rainbow have?

Rainbow has 165 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Rainbow?

Yes, pets are allowed at Rainbow. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Rainbow?

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

What activities can I do at Rainbow?

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

Rainbow (Az)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Rainbow?

Fire policies at Rainbow: 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.

4.69

402 reviews

APACHE-SITGREAVES

Top 3% in AZSummer

Family FriendlyFishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Forest Camping Arizona#1 Fishing Camping Arizona#1 Fall Camping Arizona#1 +16 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$33.97 - $110/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

165 campsites

Season

Opening and closing ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

9,000 ft

Price

$33.97 - $110/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

165 campsites

Season

Opening and closing ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Recreation Resource Management of America Official Website

Get Directions

Rainbow (Az)

$33.97 - $110.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC-6849: $34.00; GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $110.00; MANAGEMENT-254818: $34.00; MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD...

Group Site Fee$90.00

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

928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Rainbow (Az)

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

APACHE-SITGREAVES

Rainbow (Az)

APACHE-SITGREAVES

Nearby places

Springerville (approx. 25 miles, 30-minute drive), Alpine (approx. 17 miles, variable travel time), Eagar (approx. 20 miles, variable travel time)

Weather at Rainbow (Az)

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 Rainbow (Az)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most comfortable alpine weather and full access to Rainbow Campground’s services (open May 16–September 18), with daytime highs typically 65–80°F and crisp nights in the 30s—ideal for hiking, boating, trout fishing, and evening campfires. All loops and amenities are staffed and the nearby Big Lake is fully navigable for boats and kayaks; wildlife viewing and wildflower displays are also at their peak. Expect the busiest crowds in July–August and plan to reserve early (reservat Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in AZ

Open May 16–Sep 18; ideal summer temps (65–80°F), peak season with all activities available.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Opening and closing dates are weather permitting, please call 928-537-8888 for more information.

About Rainbow (Az)

Rainbow Campground sits at high elevation in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest near Big Lake, a premier trout fishery and boating destination outside Springerville. Operated by Recreation Resource Management of America, this large alpine campground offers full amenities including showers, flush toilets, and a camp store alongside spacious sites that accommodate tents, RVs, and groups. Visitors come for the cool summer weather, wildlife viewing, and direct access to hiking, fishing, and paddling on Big Lake.

Rainbow Campground provides diverse camping options suitable for various visitor needs. The campground features standard nonelectric sites, double group sites accommodating up to 16 people, and accessible single-unit sites. While primarily geared towards tent and RV camping, it does not offer cabins or glamping options.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most comfortable alpine weather and full access to Rainbow Campground’s services (open May 16–September 18), with daytime highs typically 65–80°F and crisp nights in the 30s—ideal for hiking, boating, trout fishing, and evening campfires. All loops and amenities are staffed and the nearby Big Lake is fully navigable for boats and kayaks; wildlife viewing and wildflower displays are also at their peak. Expect the busiest crowds in July–August and plan to reserve early (reservat Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation9000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits in a mixed-conifer forest of ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen, and spruce at 9,000 feet in the White Mountains. This montane forest ecosystem changes through the season. Spring greenery gives way to summer wildflowers and fall aspen gold. The elevation creates a vertical diversity of vegetation you won't find in Arizona's lower deserts. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through regularly during monsoon season, bringing dramatic cloud displays and rain showers that leave the forest smelling of wet pine and earth.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges or additional accommodations are available within the campground. However, the nearby store offers boat rentals and other essential services.

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs are available at the visitor center, offering insights into the natural and cultural history of the area. Specific topics or schedules were not detailed.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is up to 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Guests per site range from 8 for individual sites to 16 for group sites.

Groups

Four double sites are available, each accommodating up to 16 people, making them ideal for larger families or groups. Specific regulations regarding tents per group site have been raised by users as a point of concern.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, via app, or through the contact center.

AccessibilityThe campground includes two single-unit accessible campsites, ensuring some accommodation for visitors with disabilities. Paved roads and designated accessible pathways further enhance usability.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with some capable of accommodating larger groups or families. One reviewer specifically noted the "large and spacious" campsites, which are "well designed for maximum privacy.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site, but many campers praised the spacing and wooded surroundings. "Campsites are fairly far apart, so you have some privacy," one user commented.

Total Campsites165 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with level terrain for easier tent or RV setup. Avoid pull-through sites with tight turns if using a large trailer.

Best CampsitesSites 68 and 109 work well for trailers according to camper reports. Site 37 gets specific praise for privacy and natural beauty. Group sites book up early in summer, so reserve ahead if you need one.

Need help booking Rainbow (Az)?

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

No hookups available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Rainbow Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Proximity to the 450-acre Big Lake allows for excellent fishing, boating, and other water-based adventures. Visitors can also explore nearby hiking trails, enjoy wildlife viewing, or participate in cultural programs at the visitor center. The campground's scenic location at 9,000 feet elevation provides a cool, pleasant climate, ideal for activities.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our 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.

Fire PolicyDon'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.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about their locations or schedules were not mentioned. Visitors are reminded to follow proper waste disposal practices to protect the environment.

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 Rainbow (Az)

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.7

402 reviews

Top-Rated

Rainbow (Az) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Rainbow Campground is widely regarded as a scenic, well-maintained campground with friendly hosts and abundant outdoor activities. The consistently high ratings emphasize cleanliness, spacious sites, and the variety of recreational opportunities. Commonly cited drawbacks include generator noise, limited cell service, and occasional skunk issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 402 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently praise the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and the helpfulness of the hosts. "The sites are always clean," and the camp hosts receive high accolades for their assistance....

Based on 402 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the high cost of showers, generator noise, skunk activity, and limited cell service. Issues with road conditions and campsite accessibility for larger RVs are also noted.

Based on 402 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites such as 68 and 109 are recommended for smaller trailers, while site 90 is criticized for being uneven. Group sites are appreciated for their capacity but face tent-limit concerns.

Based on 402 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing plenty of blankets for cool nights, preparing for limited connectivity, and using repellents to mitigate skunk encounters. Several reviewers suggest booking group sites...

Based on 402 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with cool daytime temperatures making it ideal for outdoor activities. Rain and thunderstorms are common, particularly during monsoon season, so visitors should...

Based on 402 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The flushing bathrooms [are] ALWAYS clean." "There is absolutely no internet here, which isn’t really a bad thing!" "We love Rainbow Campground and have been camping there for years." "The weather...

Based on 402 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground includes accessible sites and paved roads, making it partially suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.

Based on 402 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed at Rainbow Campground, and many visitors bring their dogs. Pets must be on a leash at all times, and the area offers good walking paths for pet owners.

Based on 402 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

You want a full-service mountain campground with lake access, wildlife viewing, and don't mind paying extra for showers.

Skip if

You're sensitive to generator noise or need smooth interior roads for low-clearance vehicles.

Nearby Campgrounds

Brookchar sits at 9,100 feet in Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, adjacent to Big Lake in Arizona's White Mountains. This Forest Service campground offers tent and primitive sites with full amenities including showers and a dump station. Visitors fish the stocked lake, launch kayaks and canoes, and explore alpine trails under summer skies that bring 65–75°F days and crisp nights.