Bear Canyon Lake Camping Guide 2025

Why Bear Canyon Lake is Worth the Trip

If you’re looking for a quiet camping escape surrounded by tall pines and a peaceful lake tucked into the Mogollon Rim, Bear Canyon Lake is a spot we’d absolutely recommend exploring. It’s not as heavily trafficked as some of the other rim lakes, which is exactly what makes it special. With no developed campgrounds and only dispersed camping allowed, the area stays refreshingly wild.

The lake itself is small but scenic—perfect for fishing, paddling, and just enjoying the quiet. There’s a short hike required to reach the water from the parking area, which helps keep things more peaceful than at places with easy, drive-up access. It’s a great spot if you’re after that classic, rustic camping feel with forested views and cool high-elevation air.

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How to Get There

Bear Canyon Lake is located in central Arizona, about 14 miles west of the more well-known Woods Canyon Lake. It’s part of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, sitting high on the Mogollon Rim at roughly 7,500 feet elevation. That elevation makes a huge difference—temperatures are typically 15–20 degrees cooler than in the desert cities.

The closest town is Payson, which is about 40 miles to the west (a little over an hour’s drive depending on conditions). Heber-Overgaard is another option to the east, and it’s roughly the same distance.

To reach the lake:

• From Payson, take AZ-260 East.
• About 30 miles in, turn left onto Forest Road 300 (Rim Road).
• Follow Rim Road for approximately 12 miles, then turn right onto Forest Road 89 and follow signs to Bear Canyon Lake.

The last few miles are gravel and dirt roads. They’re usually fine for most vehicles, but after heavy rain, things can get rough. There’s a small parking area with vault toilets and a short trail down to the lake. Make sure to arrive early on weekends, especially in summer, as parking can fill up fast.

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Permits and Fees

There are no camping fees or permits required to camp near Bear Canyon Lake. That’s one of the things that makes it so appealing—it’s free and relatively accessible. However, you do need a valid Arizona fishing license if you plan to fish. The lake is regularly stocked with trout during the season.

Also, keep in mind:

• A Tonto Pass is NOT required here, since this area is within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, not the Tonto National Forest.
• If you’re bringing a large group or planning something like a group event or commercial outing, a special use permit may be needed. But for regular dispersed camping, nothing is required.

It’s a good idea to check with the Black Mesa Ranger District for any current updates on fire restrictions or temporary closures before your trip.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping around Bear Canyon Lake is dispersed only—there are no designated or developed campsites, no picnic tables, and no hookups. That means you can set up camp pretty much anywhere in the national forest nearby, as long as you follow a few basic rules.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Camping is allowed within 300 feet of Forest Road 89, and there are plenty of small clearings you can use for tents or small camper vans.
• Group size is limited to 10 people in most areas. Larger groups may need a permit.
• Campfires are allowed, but only when restrictions are not in place. Fire danger levels fluctuate often, especially in summer. Bring a portable stove or fire-safe cooking option as a backup.
• Pack out all trash—there are no trash bins, and leaving waste behind is strictly against forest regulations.
• You must camp at least 200 feet from the lake to help protect water quality and limit erosion. Camp near the trailhead or forest clearings, not right on the shoreline.
• Camping is limited to 14 days in any 30-day period in this forest district.

If you follow Leave No Trace principles, this place stays wild and beautiful for everyone who visits.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

Since you can’t camp directly at the lake, we’d recommend looking for one of the many dispersed sites along Forest Road 89, especially those within a short walking distance from the trail that leads down to the water. These spots offer a great mix of privacy and convenience.

Here are some tips for picking the best spot:

• Look for shaded clearings among the pines. Many areas have natural, flat patches perfect for a tent or two. A few sites are tucked back just enough to feel secluded but still close to the trail and parking area.
• Avoid the lowest-lying areas. While they might seem flat and easy, they can get muddy during monsoon rains or hold onto cold air longer at night.
• Go early on weekends. This area is quiet, but the good spots closer to the lake go quickly. If you want a more private site, arrive on a Thursday or early Friday.
• Bring your own water. There’s no potable water nearby, so any spot you choose needs to work with your water storage plan.

Some campers set up farther away from the lake, along Rim Road, and hike in just for the day. But if your goal is to fish early or catch the sunrise over the lake, we’d suggest staying as close to the lake access as you can—without breaking the 200-foot buffer rule.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

While Bear Canyon Lake is mostly known for its peaceful camping and trout fishing, there are a few solid hiking options worth checking out—especially if you enjoy forest trails and rim views.

The Bear Canyon Lake Trail is the main route. It’s an unofficial loop trail that circles the lake. Expect about 3.5 miles round trip, depending on where you start. The trail isn’t always well-marked, but you can follow a worn path along the shoreline. It’s a moderate hike with a few steep and rocky areas, especially if you’re scrambling down from the upper parking areas.

The terrain is typical Mogollon Rim: pine needles, loose rock, and occasional tree roots. Wear decent hiking shoes with grip, especially after rain. If you’re planning to do the full loop, give yourself a couple of hours and bring water—it’s shaded but still a workout at elevation.

For more experienced hikers or those staying a few days, Forest Road 300 (Rim Road) has access to additional trails along the rim with stunning views of the canyons below. There’s also the Woods Canyon Lake Trailhead just 10–15 minutes away by car, which connects to longer hikes like the Rim Lakes Vista Trail.

We’d suggest downloading an offline map ahead of time (AllTrails or Gaia GPS works well) since signage isn’t always reliable.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Since Bear Canyon Lake camping is fully dispersed, what you pack makes a huge difference. There’s no running water, trash service, or nearby stores, so you’ll need to be self-sufficient. Here’s a quick breakdown of gear we’d recommend:

Essentials to bring:

• Water storage containers or jugs (3–5 gallons per person/day is safe in summer)
• Water filtration system or purification tablets
• Bear-proof food storage (a bear canister or at least a scent-proof bag and rope)
• First aid kit and bug spray (mosquitoes can be active near the lake)
• Tent with a solid rainfly (afternoon storms are common in summer)
• Warm sleeping gear—even in July, it can drop below 50°F at night
• Fire starter and a small camping stove (restrictions can change daily)
• Headlamp or lanterns (it gets very dark out here)

There’s no sand or dunes in this area—just pine forest and rocky ground. So if you’re tent camping, a durable footprint or tarp underneath your tent helps with moisture and pokey surfaces. We’d also suggest camp chairs and a small folding table, since there’s no infrastructure at the sites.

Bring a trash bag or sealable container to pack out all waste—including food scraps and hygiene items.

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Water and Food Tips

One of the most important things to plan for at Bear Canyon Lake is water. There is no potable water anywhere nearby—not at the lake, not at the trailhead, not at your campsite.

Here’s what we’d recommend:

• Bring your own water if possible. For a weekend trip, 3–5 gallons per person is a safe range.
• If you plan to filter lake water, do it away from shore and always boil or treat it. The lake is clear, but wildlife and anglers use it too.
• Carry a backup filter or tablets, especially if you’re staying more than one night or hiking deeper into the forest.

For food, pack items that are easy to store and require minimal cleanup. We’d recommend:

• Pre-cooked meals, dehydrated backpacking meals, or simple wraps
• A small cooler with ice blocks if you’re staying only one night
• Bear-safe storage: while bear sightings are rare, raccoons and rodents are common, so keep all food sealed and away from your tent

Always cook away from where you sleep and pack out all trash.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Timing your trip right makes all the difference. Bear Canyon Lake is at 7,500 feet elevation, so the weather is completely different from Phoenix or Tucson.

Best months to visit:

• Late May to mid-October is ideal. The roads open around late May depending on snowmelt.
• June is dry and warm—a great time to visit before monsoon season.
• July and August bring afternoon thunderstorms, often with lightning and hail, so plan your hikes early in the day.
• September and early October are perfect for cool, crisp nights and fewer bugs.

Avoid visiting in late fall or early spring, as Rim Road and FR 89 are usually closed due to snow or muddy conditions.

Bug note: Mosquitoes tend to come out in the evenings near the lake, especially after rain. Pack bug spray and a head net if you’re sensitive.

Cold warning: Even in summer, night temps can drop into the 40s. Bring a good sleeping bag and warm layers.

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Safety and Navigation

Bear Canyon Lake feels remote—and in some ways, it is. That’s part of the charm, but it also means you need to be prepared.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Cell service is spotty to nonexistent. Don’t rely on your phone for directions or emergency help. Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to return.
• Download offline maps in advance. Apps like Gaia GPS or AllTrails can save your location data, so you’re not completely in the dark.
• Avoid hiking after storms. Trails can get slippery and flash flooding is a risk on lower terrain.
• Wildlife is around, including deer, elk, and smaller critters. Practice basic wildlife safety—don’t feed anything and keep food stored properly.
• Have an emergency kit, including a whistle, flashlight, basic tools, and first aid supplies.

If you’re hiking solo, make sure someone knows your exact route and timeline. We’d also recommend a small emergency beacon or GPS device if you’re planning extended hikes or off-trail exploration.

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Leave No Trace Principles

When you’re camping at Bear Canyon Lake, following Leave No Trace principles isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. This area doesn’t have maintained campgrounds, trash bins, or rangers doing regular sweeps. So, it’s on us to treat the space with respect so others can enjoy it just as much.

Here’s how we recommend you keep your impact low:

• Pack out absolutely everything—this includes food wrappers, used toilet paper, fishing line, and leftover food. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels don’t belong in the woods.
• Camp at least 200 feet from the lake to protect sensitive shoreline vegetation and reduce water pollution.
• If nature calls, bury human waste at least 6–8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, or better yet, bring a portable toilet system or wag bag.
• Stick to existing fire rings if fires are allowed during your visit. Don’t build new ones, and never cut live trees for wood.
• Keep your noise down. Let the birds, wind, and water be the loudest things you hear.
• Leave what you find. Rocks, pinecones, and wildflowers belong to the forest—not your backpack.

We’ve seen firsthand how quickly remote areas can get trashed when people don’t take these rules seriously. If you care enough to come out here, care enough to leave it better than you found it.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re staying a couple of nights or want to explore beyond the lake, there are some great spots nearby worth checking out:

• Woods Canyon Lake – Just about 10 miles away, this is a more developed area with boat rentals, hiking trails, and a small general store. Great if you want to grab ice or stretch your legs.
• Mogollon Rim Vista – Head east on Forest Road 300 and you’ll come across several dramatic overlooks with sweeping views of the Rim and valleys below. Sunrise or sunset here is something special.
• Willow Springs Lake – A bit quieter than Woods Canyon, also stocked with trout, and easy to access from Rim Road.
• Sinkhole Campground Trailhead – Located near Woods Canyon Lake, this area gives access to a few lesser-known forest trails if you want a more secluded hike.

If you’re craving a bit more civilization or need supplies, Heber-Overgaard is the closest town with gas stations, restaurants, and basic grocery options.

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Suggested Itineraries

Here are two itinerary ideas depending on how much time you have:

1-Night Quick Escape

When to Go: Friday after work or early Saturday morning
Pack:

• Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad
• Small cooler with simple meals
• 5 gallons of water
• Compact stove and headlamp
• Bug spray and first aid kit

Where to Camp: Find a dispersed spot just off FR 89 near the main parking area. It’s shaded, relatively flat, and only a short walk to the lake.

What to Do:

• Arrive by afternoon, set up camp
• Take a walk down to the lake’s edge for some fishing or a peaceful sunset
• Wake early for a morning hike around the lake before packing up

This is perfect if you want a quick unplugged weekend without much hassle.

2–3 Night Adventure

When to Go: Any long weekend between June and early October
Pack:

• All basic camping gear, plus extra layers
• Portable water filter or treatment tablets
• Bear-safe food storage
• Maps and extra batteries for electronics
• Trash bags and trowel for waste

Where to Camp: Hike a bit farther down the FR 89 spur road to find more private and quieter spots. Some areas tucked into the forest offer excellent shade and a good buffer from foot traffic.

What to Do:

• Day 1: Arrive and explore the shoreline
• Day 2: Hike the loop trail, head up Rim Road for views, then relax with some lakeside fishing
• Day 3: Enjoy a slow morning, breakfast at camp, and pack out clean

A longer stay gives you time to soak in the sounds, smell the pine air, and really disconnect.

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Frequently Asked Questions