- Privacy
- Terms
- Stay Connected
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest stands as one of Arizona’s most magnificent natural treasures, encompassing over 2.76 million acres of diverse landscapes in east-central Arizona and extending slightly into western New Mexico. Formerly managed as two separate forests, it is now operated as a single unit by the USDA Forest Service, with its Forest Supervisors Office located in Springerville, Arizona. This vast wilderness spans nearly 300 miles from Clifton, Arizona in the east to the eastern boundary of the Coconino National Forest in north-central Arizona.
The Sitgreaves National Forest was named after Captain Lorenzo Sitgreaves, a government topographical engineer who conducted the first scientific expedition across Arizona in the early 1850s, while the Apache National Forest is named for the Native American tribes that originally settled in this area. Together, these forests form a spectacular natural playground that has earned the nickname “God’s Country” among locals and visitors alike.
The Mogollon Rim is one of the forests’ most iconic features. This dramatic 200-mile-long escarpment forms the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau and offers stunning views of the forests and canyons below. It’s a popular destination for hiking, camping, and photography.
The Mount Baldy Wilderness Area is a pristine high-altitude region that features dense forests, alpine meadows, and the headwaters of the Little Colorado River. At 11,403 feet, Mount Baldy is the second-highest peak in Arizona and is considered sacred by the White Mountain Apache Tribe. The wilderness area offers some of the most scenic and serene hiking trails in the state.
The Blue Range Primitive Area, located within the Apache National Forest, is the only designated primitive area in the National Forest system. Its rugged terrain and lack of developed facilities make it a haven for backcountry adventurers seeking solitude and a truly wild experience.
Located near the forest’s western edge, Fossil Creek is a lush desert oasis with turquoise waters, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The creek is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and picnicking, but access requires a permit due to its popularity.
The forests feature over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks.
The forests are filled with campgrounds and opportunities for dispersed camping. Popular campgrounds include:
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are known as Arizona’s “land of lakes and rivers,” with over 34 lakes and 680 miles of rivers and streams. Popular fishing destinations include:
Boating is allowed on many lakes, with both motorized and non-motorized options available.
The forests are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, and bald eagles. The lush riparian areas and meadows attract many bird species, making the forests a birdwatcher’s paradise.
The forests are crisscrossed by scenic byways that showcase their diverse landscapes. Some must-drive routes include:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Eastern Arizona and a small portion of western New Mexico, USA |
| Established | 1908 |
| Managed by | U.S. Forest Service |
| Area | Approximately 2.76 million acres |
| Primary Features | High-elevation forests, mountain lakes, streams, and the Mogollon Rim escarpment |
| Nearest Cities | Show Low, Pinetop-Lakeside, Springerville, and Alpine, Arizona |
| Activities | Hiking, camping, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, hunting, off-road driving, and winter sports (e.g., snowshoeing, cross-country skiing) |
| Topography | Rugged mountains, volcanic peaks, deep canyons, forested plateaus, and alpine meadows |
| Popular Attractions | – Mogollon Rim: A dramatic 200-mile-long escarpment with scenic views – Big Lake: A popular fishing and boating destination – Mount Baldy Wilderness: Home to Mount Baldy, the second-highest peak in Arizona – Black River: Known for excellent trout fishing – Blue Range Primitive Area: One of the few remaining primitive areas in the U.S. |
| Wildlife | Elk, mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, bald eagles, Mexican wolves (endangered), and many bird species |
| Vegetation | Ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, aspen, spruce, juniper, and wildflowers in alpine meadows |
| Climate | Four-season climate with mild summers, cool autumns, snowy winters, and a monsoon season in late summer |
| Camping | – Over 50 developed campgrounds (some with RV hookups) – Dispersed camping allowed in many areas |
| Wilderness Areas | Includes Mount Baldy Wilderness and Escudilla Wilderness |
| Fishing and Boating | Numerous lakes and rivers, including Big Lake, Crescent Lake, and the Black River |
| Significance | Provides critical habitat for endangered species and recreational opportunities for visitors while preserving stunning natural landscapes |
| Visitor Centers | Ranger district offices are located in Springerville, Alpine, Lakeside, Clifton, and Heber-Overgaard |
| Website | Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest – U.S. Forest Service |
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is defined by several distinct geographic features that create its unique character and recreational appeal.
One of the most dramatic features of the forest is the Mogollon Rim (pronounced “muggy-own”), a massive escarpment that extends approximately 200 miles from Flagstaff into western New Mexico. Rising to an elevation of 7,600 feet, the Rim provides spectacular vista points with inspiring views of the lowlands to the south. This geological marvel serves as both a physical and ecological boundary, influencing climate patterns and vegetation zones throughout the region.
The Rim’s imposing presence has captured the imagination of visitors for generations, including famous Western author Zane Grey, who set many of his novels in this rugged landscape and helped popularize the area among outdoor enthusiasts.
The eastern portion of the Apache-Sitgreaves, from Mount Baldy east to Escudilla Mountain, is known as the White Mountains of Arizona. This alpine region represents some of the highest terrain in Arizona, with elevations approaching 11,500 feet. The area is characterized by dense forests of ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir trees, interspersed with aspen groves that provide spectacular golden displays during autumn months.
The White Mountains serve as the headwaters for several major Arizona rivers, including the Black, Little Colorado, and San Francisco Rivers, making them critical to the state’s watershed system.
One of the Apache-Sitgreaves’ most remarkable features is its abundance of water resources – a rarity in the Southwest. The forest contains 34 lakes and reservoirs along with more than 680 miles of rivers and streams, more than can be found in any other Southwestern National Forest. These cold, clear waters not only support diverse aquatic ecosystems but also provide outstanding recreational opportunities for visitors.
The most popular lakes include Woods Canyon Lake, Willow Springs Lake, Black Canyon Lake, Bear Canyon Lake, Big Lake, Crescent Lake, and Luna Lake. Each has its own character and offers different amenities and activities for visitors.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest offers a wide range of recreational opportunities throughout the year, catering to diverse interests and abilities. Here are some of the most popular activities:
With its abundant lakes, reservoirs, and streams, the Apache-Sitgreaves is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts. Most waters are stocked with rainbow, brown, brook, and native Apache trout, providing excellent angling opportunities from spring through fall.
Big Lake Recreation Area is particularly noteworthy for trout fishing. This 575-acre lake serves as a convenient base for fishing at nearby Crescent Lake, Lee Valley Lake, and the East and West Forks of the Black River. Anglers should note that a valid Arizona fishing license is required, and special regulations may apply in some areas, particularly regarding catch limits and seasonal restrictions.
The forest offers numerous developed campgrounds as well as dispersed camping opportunities. From high-elevation sites near Hannagan Meadow (at 9,100 feet, one of the highest campgrounds in Arizona) to lakeside facilities like those at Big Lake Recreation Area, campers can choose settings that match their preferences and equipment.
Some of the most popular campgrounds include:
The largest campground in the Big Lake Recreation Area, it can accommodate RVs up to 45 feet in length.
Located near Woods Canyon Lake, this large facility features 136 campsites spread across four loops in alternating meadow and wooded areas. Sites are well-spaced, providing privacy for campers.
The largest campground in the Big Lake Recreation Area with 165 campsites organized into six loops. Its proximity to the lake and many amenities make it a favorite for families.
Situated close to the edge of the Mogollon Rim, this campground offers spectacular 100-mile views from many vantage points.
Many campgrounds provide amenities such as paved roads, dump stations, and showers, though electric hookups are generally not available. Some campgrounds are designed specifically for tent camping, giving tent campers exclusive use of entire areas.
The Apache-Sitgreaves offers an extensive network of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. The forest features four National Recreation Trails: Eagle, Blue Ridge, Escudilla, and General George Crook. For visitors seeking accessible options, barrier-free trails include the Mogollon Rim Interpretative Trail and Pintail Lake Wetland.
Popular day hikes include:
A moderate 3.5-mile trail offering spectacular views from the Mogollon Rim
A scenic 9-mile route through diverse forest environments
A challenging 3-mile climb to the summit of Escudilla Mountain, Arizona’s third-highest peak
For backpackers, the forest’s wilderness areas provide opportunities for multi-day adventures in remote, pristine environments.
The Apache-Sitgreaves provides habitat for over 400 species of wildlife. The forest is home to most big game animals, such as antelope, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and turkey, as well as a variety of songbirds, waterfowl, small mammals, fish, amphibians, and reptiles. Lucky visitors might catch sight of a mountain lion, a black bear, or the newly re-introduced Mexican gray wolf.
Prime wildlife viewing areas include:
Photographers will find endless inspiration in the forest’s diverse landscapes, from dramatic mountain vistas and crystal-clear lakes to peaceful meadows and ancient stands of ponderosa pine. The changing seasons offer different photographic opportunities, with spring wildflowers, summer thunderstorms, fall foliage, and winter snowscapes all creating memorable images.
Many of the forest’s lakes allow boating, though restrictions vary by location. Woods Canyon Lake, one of the most visited lakes in the Rim Lakes Recreation Area, only permits electric boat motors. Other lakes may allow gas-powered motors with horsepower restrictions.
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on most forest lakes and along calmer stretches of rivers. Rental equipment is available at some locations, including the marina at Woods Canyon Lake.
Swimming is permitted at many lakes, though visitors should be aware that water temperatures remain quite cold even during summer months due to the high elevation.
When snow blankets the forest, new recreational opportunities emerge. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities, with several areas designated for these pursuits:
Some areas may be closed during winter months due to snow conditions, so visitors should check current information before planning a winter trip.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest contains four wilderness areas, all within the former Apache National Forest section. Three have been officially designated by Congress as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System:
These wilderness areas offer opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation, with restrictions on motorized access and development to preserve their natural character.
The fourth special area, the Blue Range Primitive Area, was designated as a Primitive Area by the Secretary of Agriculture in 1933. This area has been managed under the highest level of forest service protection to maintain its wilderness qualities. It represents one of the few remaining primitive areas in the National Forest system.
These protected areas serve as critical wildlife habitat and maintain pristine watersheds while providing visitors with opportunities to experience nature in its most undisturbed state.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest experiences distinct seasonal changes that affect recreation and access throughout the year.
Spring brings wildflower displays to meadows and forest clearings, though higher elevations may still have snow into May. This season often features the best fishing conditions as waters warm and fish become more active. Many campgrounds begin opening in late April or early May, depending on weather conditions.
Summer is the peak visitation season, with warm days and cool nights providing ideal camping conditions. At higher elevations like Hannagan Meadow (9,100 feet), temperatures remain “deliciously cool while everywhere else is hot.” This is also the forest’s monsoon season, with afternoon thunderstorms common, particularly in July and August. Visitors should plan outdoor activities for mornings and be prepared to seek shelter during storms.
Autumn brings spectacular color changes, particularly in areas with aspen groves. Fishing remains productive, and wildlife becomes more active during cooler weather. Campgrounds begin closing in mid-October at higher elevations, though lower elevation facilities may remain open into November.
Winter transforms the forest into a snow-covered wonderland, though access becomes limited to plowed roads and designated winter recreation areas. Most campgrounds close during this season, and facilities are minimal. Visitors should be prepared for winter driving conditions and carry appropriate emergency supplies.
Visitors can obtain current information, maps, and permits at the following locations:
Springerville, AZ
The Mogollon Rim Visitor Center, open weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offers informative staff assistance as well as books and gifts related to the local area.
Visitors may need to purchase recreation passes or permits for certain activities within the forest. These might include:
Current information about permit requirements and fees can be obtained from Forest Service offices or the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest website.
Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, especially in summer months. As of recent updates, the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests are in Stage 1 Fire Restrictions, which prohibits fires, campfires, and smoking in many areas. Visitors should always check current fire restriction information before planning activities that might involve campfires or open flames.
The Forest Service encourages all visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles:
These principles help preserve the forest’s natural beauty and ecological health for future generations.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest faces several conservation challenges, including:
In response to these challenges, the USDA and Arizona state government have established Shared Stewardship agreements to reduce community wildfire risk and improve forest health. These collaborative efforts involve multiple agencies, organizations, and community stakeholders working together to address complex environmental issues.
Visitors can contribute to conservation efforts by:
By combining responsible recreation with active stewardship, we can help ensure that the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest remains a vibrant, healthy ecosystem for generations to come.
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest represents one of Arizona’s most diverse and spectacular natural areas, offering visitors an incredible range of recreational opportunities in stunning mountain settings. From the dramatic vistas of the Mogollon Rim to the alpine environments of the White Mountains, from crystal-clear lakes to meandering streams, this forest showcases the remarkable diversity of southwestern ecosystems.
Whether you seek adventure, solitude, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful retreat from urban life, the Apache-Sitgreaves offers experiences to match every interest and ability level. By approaching this magnificent resource with respect and appreciation, visitors can enjoy all it has to offer while helping to preserve its natural integrity for future generations.
As forest literature poetically describes it: “It’s called God’s Country… Lakes and mountains. The Mogollon Rim made famous by Zane Grey. The White Mountains made green by ponderosa pine, gentled by cold waters flowing to the valleys below and far beyond. It is a physically challenging and rewarding recreational landscape. A place of spiritual renewal and more.”
For the most current information about the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, visitors are encouraged to consult these resources:
