Drift Fence Lake Campground
Drift Fence Lake Campground
Region: WMAT, Big Lake
Best for: Tent camping, small self-contained camping vehicles, fishing and remote high-country scenery
Permits and reservations: Tribal camping permit required; established sites are generally first-come, first-served
Drift Fence Lake Campground is a quiet, primitive campground nestled among the high-elevation forests of the White Mountain Apache Reservation. Located beside scenic Drift Fence Lake at nearly 9,000 feet, it offers a peaceful escape for anglers, wildlife watchers, and campers seeking a more secluded mountain experience.
🏕 Number of Campsites: 10
📏 Max RV Length: 24 ft.
🐕 Pets: Yes
💧 Drinking Water: No
🚻 Flush Toilets: No
⛰ Elevation: 8983 ft.
🧺 Picnic Tables: Yes
🚿 Showers: No
🔥 Fire Ring: Yes
🌊 Lake Access: Yes
🚻 Vault Toilets: Yes
🏪 General Store: No
🚤 Boat Rentals: No
🎣 Lake Fishing: Yes
🏞️ Stream Fishing: No
Latitude: 33.82279925
Longitude: 109.53660155
📅 Reservations: No - (If "No" then first come - first served)
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Drift Fence Lake Campground is managed by the White Mountain Apache Tribe Game & Fish Department and requires a valid White Mountain Apache camping permit. The campground features established dirt campsites suitable for tents and small RVs, with camping limited to designated sites. Its remote setting makes it ideal for those looking to enjoy cool mountain temperatures, dark night skies, and excellent opportunities for trout fishing, birdwatching, and spotting elk, deer, wild turkey, and other wildlife.
The lake is a favorite among anglers for rainbow and Apache trout, while the surrounding forests offer opportunities for hiking, photography, and simply relaxing away from larger recreation areas.
Visitors should arrive prepared with drinking water, food, and other supplies, as services are limited. As with all White Mountain Apache lands, campers should respect tribal regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles. Camping permits can be obtained online or through the White Mountain Apache Tribe Game & Fish Department.
Pets must always be restrained or on a leash.
From Show Low, travel east on AZ Highway 260 approximately 34 miles to AZ Highway 273. Turn right (south) onto Highway 273 and continue about 18 miles. Turn left onto the signed forest road leading toward Drift Fence Lake and follow the gravel road to the campground. The final section is on a maintained forest road but can be rough after storms, so drive carefully, especially with larger RVs.