Arizona White Mountains and Mogollon Rim recreation area

Sinkhole Campground Near Payson, Arizona

Originally written by Tony Subia

Updated by AZ Leisure Staff Writers on September 2, 2026

Sinkhole Campground is a forested RV and tent campground on Arizona's Mogollon Rim near Willow Springs Lake and east of Payson. Its high-elevation setting provides convenient access to fishing, boating, hiking and mountain biking while offering campers a quieter alternative to some of the busier recreation areas around nearby Woods Canyon Lake.

RV & Tent Camping
Campground Amenities
Nearby Recreation
Willow Springs Lake
Planning Your Stay
Map & Directions
Campground FAQ

RV & Tent Camping At Sinkhole Campground

Sinkhole Campground sits at a high elevation on the Mogollon Rim in a forest of ponderosa pine. The elevation generally provides cooler summer conditions than Arizona's lower deserts, while nighttime temperatures can become chilly even during warmer months. Spring and fall visitors should be prepared for colder nights and rapidly changing mountain weather.

Nearby Willow Springs Lake provides opportunities for fishing and boating, including angling for trout and other species found in the lake. A boat ramp is available, but anglers and boaters should check current Arizona Game and Fish regulations and any applicable motor restrictions before arriving.

Sinkhole Campground accommodates both RV and tent camping. Campsite availability, reservation policies, RV and trailer size limits and operating procedures can change, so campers should confirm current requirements with the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests before traveling. During busy summer weekends, arriving early may improve the chances of finding an available site.

RV camping at a forest campground near Payson Arizona

Hiking, Biking & Recreation Near Sinkhole Campground

Hiking and mountain biking opportunities are available throughout the surrounding Mogollon Rim area, including routes associated with the historic General Crook Trail. Campers can also visit nearby Woods Canyon Lake for additional boating, fishing and recreation opportunities.

Sinkhole Campground Amenities & Information

Camping: RV and tent camping are available.
Hookups: Campers should not assume utility hookups are available and should confirm current campground facilities before traveling.
Sites: Campsite sizes and RV or trailer length limits vary, so verify current restrictions before arrival.
Season: The campground operates seasonally, with opening and closing dates affected by weather and forest conditions.
Reservations: Check current U.S. Forest Service information for campsite availability and reservation policies.
Facilities: Confirm current availability of drinking water, toilets, picnic tables, grills and fire rings before your trip.
Fire Restrictions: Campfire rules can change quickly during dry conditions, so check current forest restrictions before using any fire or grill.

Willow Springs Lake Near Sinkhole Campground

Willow Springs Lake is one of the primary recreation destinations near Sinkhole Campground. Visitors use the lake for fishing, boating and shoreline recreation, while the surrounding Mogollon Rim forest provides additional hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic opportunities.

Fishing regulations, boating rules, water conditions and seasonal access can change, so check current information before planning lake activities.

Planning A Stay At Sinkhole Campground

Confirm campground opening dates and campsite availability before traveling.
Check current RV and trailer length restrictions.
Bring appropriate clothing for cool nighttime temperatures at higher elevation.
Check current fire restrictions before planning a campfire or charcoal cooking.
Bring sufficient food, drinking water and camping supplies for your stay.
Check weather and road conditions before traveling during spring, fall or stormy weather.
Review current fishing and boating regulations before visiting Willow Springs Lake.

Sinkhole Campground Map & Directions

Directions To Sinkhole Campground

Sinkhole Campground is reached from State Route 260 in the Mogollon Rim area east of Payson. Access is from the forest road leading toward Willow Springs Lake. Because forest-road access, closures and seasonal conditions can change, check current U.S. Forest Service directions and road conditions before traveling.

Official Campground Information

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests
Black Mesa Ranger District
(928) 535-7300

Sinkhole Campground FAQ

Where is Sinkhole Campground?

Sinkhole Campground is located on Arizona's Mogollon Rim east of Payson and near Willow Springs Lake.

Can you camp in an RV at Sinkhole Campground?

Yes. Sinkhole Campground accommodates RV camping as well as tent camping. Campers should verify current RV and trailer size restrictions before arriving.

Is tent camping available at Sinkhole Campground?

Yes. Tent camping is available, although campsite availability and seasonal operating conditions should be confirmed before traveling.

Is Sinkhole Campground close to Willow Springs Lake?

Yes. Sinkhole Campground is located near Willow Springs Lake, providing convenient access to fishing, boating and other lake recreation.

Are there RV hookups at Sinkhole Campground?

Campers should not expect full-service RV hookups. Confirm current facilities with the U.S. Forest Service before planning your stay.

Can you reserve a campsite at Sinkhole Campground?

Reservation and campsite-availability policies can change. Check current Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests information before traveling.

When is the best time to camp at Sinkhole Campground?

The campground is generally used during the warmer part of the year, when Mogollon Rim roads and campground facilities are accessible. Because weather can affect seasonal opening and closing dates, verify current conditions before visiting.