Fr 171 Campground

Isolated yet accessible, FR 171 Campground offers a serene escape with stunning views of the Mogollon Rim, a canopy of towering Ponderosa pines, and the tranquility of Arizona’s high-country wilderness. This dispersed camping area caters to self-sufficient adventurers seeking solitude and unobstructed night skies, perfect for stargazing.

The campground lies within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, just a short drive from Payson, Arizona, and is positioned near the Rim Lakes Recreation Area. It features a network of informal, first-come, first-served sites spread along Forest Road 171. With no amenities such as potable water or restrooms, campers must come fully prepared and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center—situated nearby—provides useful resources and hiking trail access, while Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake, a 30-minute drive away, offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.

At an elevation of approximately 7,700 feet, FR 171 Campground enjoys cool summer temperatures and is ideal for weekend getaways or extended stays to experience the surrounding Rim Lakes Recreation Area’s lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful lakes. However, the area may require high-clearance vehicles during inclement weather. For those craving a rustic, nature-immersed getaway, this peaceful forest retreat delivers.