Ashurst Lake Campgrounds

Star4.40
43 reviews

Quick Facts

7,000 ft

Price

$8 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Allowed

RV Friendly

Opens Coconino National Forest site

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Ashurst Lake Campgrounds
$8.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$8 per site for day use; $20 per site for overnight use. Additional $8 charge per vehicle.
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$20.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
928-774-9671

What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 43 reviews

145 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanwater

Some mention

dusty

"Overall, Ashurst Lake Campgrounds are highly rated for their scenic beauty, clean facilities, and well-maintained amenities. However, some complaints about road conditions and crowded conditions during peak times."

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Fees & Passes at Ashurst Lake Campgrounds

$8 - $20/night

Campsite fees

Standard Site

Basic tent/RV spot

$20/night
Prices verified December 7, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Coconino National Forest website.


Best Time to Camp at Ashurst Lake Campgrounds

Summer arrives gently at 7,000 feet, blessing campers with warm 80-degree days perfect for hiking and water activities, while evenings cool to a refreshing 50 degrees—ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Mountain breezes sweep across the lake, bringing the fresh scent of pine and reminding visitors to secure their gear. During particularly dry spells, fire restrictions may apply, encouraging campers to embrace the simple pleasures of this high-country retreat.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.

Planning Tips

    About Ashurst Lake Campgrounds

    Escape to Ashurst Lake Campgrounds, where crystal-clear waters meet ancient juniper forests beneath the watchful gaze of the San Francisco Peaks. Here, anglers cast their lines at dawn while families wake to the scent of pinyon pine and the promise of mountain adventures. Each campsite is thoughtfully tucked among twisted junipers and fragrant pines, creating intimate spaces where memories are made under star-filled skies.
    Ashurst Lake Campgrounds cater to tent camping and small RVs or trailers, providing a simple, rustic experience.
    Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives gently at 7,000 feet, blessing campers with warm 80-degree days perfect for hiking and water activities, while evenings cool to a refreshing 50 degrees—ideal for campfire stories and stargazing. Mountain breezes sweep across the lake, bringing the fresh scent of pine and reminding visitors to secure their gear. During particularly dry spells, fire restrictions may apply, encouraging campers to embrace the simple pleasures of this high-country retreat.
    ElevationPerched at 7,000 feet above sea level, Ashurst Lake offers a refreshing mountain escape from Arizona's desert heat. This elevated paradise delivers crisp morning air, comfortable summer temperatures, and that thin-air clarity that makes colors more vivid and stars shine brighter. The altitude creates a perfect balance—high enough to escape the scorching valleys below, yet accessible enough for comfortable camping.
    Natural Features and SceneryAncient juniper trees twist skyward in sculptural forms, their weathered trunks telling stories of centuries past, while aromatic pinyon pines provide dappled shade throughout the campgrounds. Even during Arizona's driest years, Ashurst Lake maintains its sparkling waters—a rare and precious oasis that draws wildlife and wonder-seekers alike. This resilient mountain lake reflects the surrounding volcanic landscape, creating a stunning contrast between water, forest, and the distant peaks that define northern Arizona's dramatic horizon.
    Geological RegionNestled within the vast Coconino National Forest, Ashurst Lake sits at the intersection of ancient volcanic forces and timeless forest ecosystems. The landscape bears witness to the region's fiery past, with the majestic San Francisco Peaks—Arizona's highest mountains—dominating the horizon as remnants of long-extinct volcanoes. Weathered junipers grip the rocky soil with determined roots, while pinyon pines fill the air with their distinctive fragrance, creating a uniquely southwestern mountain experience that connects visitors to millions of years of geological drama.
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    Campsite details

    AccessibilityIncludes basic accessibility features such as gravel paths and moderately accessible campsites.
    Sites SizeSites are spacious and can accommodate larger tents or multiple groups.
    Sites PrivacyModerate privacy with sites nestled among juniper and pinyon pines, providing some seclusion.
    Total Campsites25 campsites
    Recommended CampsitesSpot #21 is ideal for RV camping with waterfront access. Sites closer to the lake offer proximity to fishing.

    Best Campsites

    Curated by campers, for campers
    Reveal picks

    Reserving a campsite

    Tents
    Tents are allowed
    RV vehicles
    RV vehicles are allowed
    Primitive
    Primitive are allowed
    Reservable
    Reservations are not allowed

    Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability. Host drives around for payments and charges on-site.

    Amenities available

    Potable water
    Fire rings
    Picnic tables
    Cell phone service
    Firewood available
    Vault toilets

    Activities you can enjoy

    Ashurst Lake Campgrounds offer a range of activities focusing on outdoor recreation and serene relaxation by the lake.
    Hiking
    Hiking opportunities are available nearby, including gravel paths around the lake and trails leading into the surrounding forest areas.
    Fishing
    Fishing is a popular activity here, with the lake stocked with trout and the presence of bass and catfish. Several reviews mention successful fishing trips.
    Biking
    Several gravel and two-track roads around the lake provide opportunities for mountain biking.
    Boating
    Non-motorized boating is supported, and the lake allows for kayaking and small boat activities. A designated boat launch is available.
    Wildlife viewing
    The area is rich in birdwatching opportunities, particularly during the spring migration. Bald eagles, ospreys, hawks, and various ducks are regularly sighted.
    Winter Activities
    Winter camping may offer solitude, but details on specific activities are not provided.
    Water Sports
    Limited to non-motorized activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
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    Campground rules

    • Pets are allowed
    • Campfires are allowed unless a burn ban is enacted. Each site has a fire pit.

    Hazards

    General hazardsOften windy; burn bans may be enforced. Rocky and dusty terrain.

    Weather at Ashurst Lake Campgrounds

    33
    °F
    Dec 8
    Monday
    Clear sky
    Precipitation: 0%

    Moderate wind, may affect light items

    Humidity: 44%

    Comfortable humidity levels

    Wind: 5.8 mph

    Moderate wind, may affect light items

    Clear sky

    Weather History
    Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

    Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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    Reveal forecast

    Good to know

    Trash and recyclingCampground provides dumpsters for trash disposal, but reviewers highlight that they can overflow during peak seasons like Memorial Day weekend.
    Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Ashurst Lake, which is stocked with trout, bass, and channel catfish.
    Common complaintsSome campsites lack shade, and the access road is rocky and dusty, requiring slow driving.
    HostHosts are friendly and helpful, often driving around the site to assist campers and collect fees. Hosts maintain clean restroom facilities.

    Campground Map

    Driving directionsDrive south 19 miles from Flagstaff on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road), then east about 4 miles on Forest Road 82E. GPS coordinates: 35°01'10.1"N 111°24'31.1"W (Ashurst Campground).
    Accessible via graveled roads suitable for most passenger vehicles and bicycles. Forest Highway 3 and Forest Road 82E provide direct access.

    Reviews from booking and map sources

    4.4
    43 reviews
    Recommended
    Recommended
    Ashurst Lake Campgrounds is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
    Overall, Ashurst Lake Campgrounds are highly rated for their scenic beauty, clean facilities, and well-maintained amenities. However, some complaints about road conditions and crowded conditions during peak times.
    Review Summaries
    Based on 43 reviews

    What Campers Love

    Reviewers praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets, availability of potable water, and the friendliness of the camp hosts. The fishing and views of the San Francisco Peaks are also highly...
    Show more
    Based on 43 reviews

    Common Concerns

    The gravel road leading to the campground is cited as rough and bumpy by several reviewers. Additionally, some sites lack sufficient shade, and crowded conditions can occur during holidays.
    Based on 43 reviews

    Pro Tips & Recommendations

    Bring extra shade structures as some sites lack tree cover. Arrive early on busy weekends to secure a good spot. Check fire restrictions in advance.
    Based on 43 reviews

    Seasonal Insights

    Summer months are popular due to the temperate climate at 7,000 ft elevation. Spring offers excellent birdwatching during migration, while fall features cooler weather and vibrant foliage. Winter...
    Show more
    Based on 43 reviews

    Camper Quotes

    "The water tasted great. It was not filled with chlorine and did not have a funny aftertaste." "The camp host was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable." "The vault toilets were clean and well-stocked...
    Show more
    Based on 43 reviews

    Site-Specific Reviews

    Spot #21 is frequently noted as being spacious and ideal for RVs. Reviewers recommend sites closer to the lake for better views.
    Based on 43 reviews

    Pet-Friendly Features

    Pets are allowed and well-accommodated, but campers must keep them leashed at all times. One reviewer appreciated the intimate, pet-friendly environment.
    Based on 43 reviews

    Camper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers

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    Last updated December 7, 2025
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