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Hidden Gems
An RVer’s Guide to Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Hidden Gems of the National Forest System
THOR and the National Forest Foundation are bringing you one step closer to the “hidden gems” of the National Forest system. Get tips for RVing at these national forest destinations and why they are some of the RV community’s best-kept secrets.
About Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest encompasses over two million acres of magnificent mountain country in east-central Arizona.
The Sitgreaves is best known for the Mogollon Rim and a string of man-made lakes. The Rim extends two hundred miles from Flagstaff into western New Mexico and offers inspiring vistas of the low country from its 7,600-foot elevation. The Apache National Forest is known for its trout streams and high-elevation lakes and meadows ranging from 3,500 feet to nearly 11,500 feet.
The Apache-Sitgreaves has 34 lakes and reservoirs and more than 680 miles of rivers and streams -- more than can be found in any other Southwestern National Forest.
What To Do In the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest is considered one of the top forests in the nation for fishing. The Apache-Sitgreaves contains over 450 miles of streams and nearly 2,000 surface acres of cold-water lakes. Fish species include Arctic Grayling, Rainbow, German Brown, Brook, Apache, and Cutthroat trout. The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest also offers almost 1,000 miles of trails across a variety of terrain for different trail users, including four National Recreation Trails.
For scenic driving, the Mogollon Rim features some of the most impressive vistas in Arizona. Follow Forest Road 300 and along the way visit the upper trailhead for Horton Springs and Bear Canyon Lake. Keep your eyes peeled for elk and mule deer and enjoy the cool pine forests and breathtaking views from the Rim.
Other popular attractions in the area include:
History
The Forest has a fascinating heritage with many archeological resources. In the Forest, prehistoric site types range from the remains of hunting and plant collecting areas to large pueblos with enclosed plazas, much like those seen today at Hopi and Zuni. Rock shelters and cave sites are found in the steeper canyons of the Mogollon Rim and along the Blue River.
Rock art, both painted pictographs and carved or etched petroglyphs, are scattered throughout the Forests. Most of the rock art dates between 900 and 600 years ago and can be seen along the Black Canyon Auto Tour and at the Blue Crossing Campground.
Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest
Top Attractions
Hidden Gems Series
Learn more about top destinations and tips for camping at National Forests from fellow RVers and the National Forest Foundation.
Find Your Hidden Gem
The National Forest Foundation x THOR Industries
In 2020, THOR and the National Forest Foundation entered a partnership that will plant at least 500,000 trees on National Forest lands. Join us by supporting our National Forests and help improve the health of important public lands for future generations.
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