Lockett Meadow Campground

Star4.41
154 reviews
Scenic Views

Quick Facts

8,560 ft

Price

$8 - $18/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open season typicall...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Coconino National Forest site

Official Website
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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
Lockett Meadow Campground
$8.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Overnight camping fee is $18. Day-use parking fee is $8, payable via a cash envelope system at the site. Additional reservation fees apply for...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
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

4.41

Recommended

Based on 154 reviews

227 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hikingwell-maintained

"Overall, Lockett Meadow Campground is highly praised for its stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the Inner Basin Trail. Visitors frequently comment on the challenging access road and the need to arrive early to secure a spot."

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Campground Map

Lockett Meadow Campground

35.3586, -111.6208

Driving directionsDrive northeast of Flagstaff on US Highway 89 for 12.5 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 552, directly across from the Sunset Crater National Monument turnoff. Follow FR 552 for approximately one mile. Turn right at the Lockett Meadow sign and continue to the campground. This dirt road is closed in early spring and late fall due to snow.
The access road, Forest Road 552, is a dirt road marked as steep, narrow, single-lane, and rough. Not recommended for RVs or trailers. The road is closed in early spring and late fall due to snow.
Nearby places
Flagstaff (15 miles, approximately a 20-minute drive depending on road conditions).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available in Flagstaff, 15 miles from the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Lockett Meadow Campground

Summer transforms Lockett Meadow into a cool mountain refuge, where temperatures drop 20-30 degrees below the desert floor, offering blessed relief from Arizona's heat. But it's autumn that truly steals the show – when thousands of aspen trees burst into flames of gold, creating one of the Southwest's most breathtaking natural spectacles. As winter arrives, heavy snows close the access road, transforming this alpine sanctuary into a silent, snow-blanketed wonderland accessible only to the most determined adventurers.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Cool mountain refuge in summer; much cooler than the desert floor and pleasant for camping.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
5.0 / 5
Top 2% in AZ

Peak season Oct 5-15 for golden aspen foliage; fall is the most popular time to visit.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Reviewed as colorful in spring; reviewers note good spring foliage and wildflowers.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed in winter due to snow and road closures; not available for winter visits.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Fall, specifically October 5-15, is highlighted as an ideal time to visit.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season typically runs from spring through mid-October. The area is closed during winter due to road closures from snow.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal road closures due to snow and reports of vandalism to facilities. "Road to the campground is still closed," as of October 2023.

About Lockett Meadow Campground

Nestled among whispering quaking aspens, Lockett Meadow Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic mountain wilderness experience. This pristine, primitive camping destination sits in the shadow of the majestic San Francisco Peaks, where towering pines give way to alpine meadows and the air carries the crisp promise of adventure. For those who dream of waking to birdsong and spending days exploring untamed wilderness trails, this high-country haven delivers the raw beauty of Arizona's alpine landscape.
Lockett Meadow offers primitive camping with first-come, first-served sites, accommodating tent campers and smaller vehicles. RVs and trailers are not recommended due to the difficult access road.
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Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Lockett Meadow Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature exploration. The Inner Basin Trail, starting from the campground, is a highlight for many visitors.
HikingThe Inner Basin Trail is a popular hiking option, offering a challenging incline to the Weatherford Trail junction. Hikes are scenic with views of aspen forests and wildflowers. The trail may involve elevation gains of up to 860 feet and can take 4+ hours to complete.
Wildlife viewingCampers may see porcupines, elk, and hermit thrushes. Black bears have also been spotted strolling through picnic areas.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsHazards include black bears, coyotes, and the steep, narrow access road. "The drive up the mountain gets narrow and one-way, so it can be scary."
Active AlertsSeasonal road closures due to snow and reports of vandalism to facilities. "Road to the campground is still closed," as of October 2023.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Lockett Meadow Campground

Reviews

4.4
154 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Lockett Meadow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Lockett Meadow Campground is highly praised for its stunning views, peaceful atmosphere, and proximity to the Inner Basin Trail. Visitors frequently comment on the challenging access road and the need to arrive early to secure a spot.
Review Summaries
Based on 154 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users highlight the beauty of the aspen trees, the serene mountain meadow setting, and the well-maintained hiking trails. The campground is often described as a 'hidden gem' and 'one of the most...
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Based on 154 reviews

Common Concerns

The steep, narrow dirt road to the campground is a common concern, especially for low-clearance vehicles. Reviews also mention the lack of water and occasional vandalism of facilities.
Based on 154 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as campsites fill up quickly. Bring sufficient water, food, and supplies, as there are no services. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the access road.
Based on 154 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall is the most popular season due to the golden aspen foliage. Summer offers cooler temperatures compared to the desert, while the road is often closed in winter due to snow.
Based on 154 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Get here early as hell on the weekend and cross your fingers you’ll find a campsite.' - Ryan 2. 'It is one of the best places to be in Arizona during the fall season.' - Dhananjay Anarwad 3....
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Based on 154 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites 7 and 8 are noted for great views, while 15 and 16 offer more seclusion.
Based on 154 reviews

Accessibility Features

No direct reviews from users with disabilities were found, but the access road's difficulty may be a barrier.
Based on 154 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and many visitors bring dogs. Leashes are required, as noted by some reviewers.
Based on 154 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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