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Desert_Captain's avatar
Desert_Captain
Explorer III
Jun 11, 2023

More fun in Arizona...

I am always searching for a new spot to camp and just found a gem... Have probably driven by Horseshoe Cienega Lake {about 25 miles east oF Show Low on the 260} dozens of of times over the years but just never got around to stopping for a look.

At just 120 miles east of our home it was nice ride up and over the Rim and east out through Pine Top and Lakeside. The campground sits at 8,200 feet in one of the most heavily wooded sections of the White Mountains. The primitive CG has 70+ sites scattered through 9 loops some overlooking the lake. They have water spigots and vault toilets/porta potties but no power. There is a small store at the lake and boats can be rented.

This is all Apache Reservation land and camping is $9 a night. Most folks however come for the entire summer staking out choice sites at the beginning of the season and then leaving their RV on site returning for the weekends and holidays. I was told $250 will cover the entire summer but cannot confirm. Probably 60 - 70 percent of the "sites" {they typically have a rock fire ring and some have a picnic tables} are occupied by the full time summer crowd so finding a nice site can be a challenge... arrive early in the week for the best selection.

As you can see this place is awesome...





:B
  • There are lots of openings off of the many loops so yes, you could probably get your fiver into a spot. That so many of the spots are permanently taken for the summer season could make finding a great spot a bit of a challenge.

    As to solar.... this area is heavily wooded but there were some areas that have open sun but you will find more shade than sunlight.

    Here are a few more shots to give you a better feel for the terrain...








    :C
  • A couple questions, Desert Cptn.
    Any issues getting a 42' 5th wheel RV around and into sites?
    Any sites open enough to provide adequate solar power?
  • Seems counterintuitive to publicly broadcast a favorite hidden gem….
    Kinda like the guy who tells everyone aboot his secret fishin hole.
  • You should make a picture post card of the picture with the lake and boat. It's beautiful:)

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