State: Arizona
Open: Seasonal
Number of Sites: 30
Elevation: 7000
Free: No
Reservations: Yes - Check Recreation.gov for information
About: Campsites at both of these campgrounds are scattered through cool groves of ponderosa pines and white firs. Recreational interest here usually centers around fishing in nearby Mormon Lake (when there is water in it), but even if you don’t fish there are plenty of things to do in this picturesque area.
Three hiking trails originate at Dairy Springs, one at Double Springs (see the Trails section of this guide). Those trails lead to scenic overlooks of nearby Mormon Lake and the surrounding area of prairies, forests and volcanoes. Wildlife watching is also a popular activity in this area. It’s a very good place to see hawks, including northern harriers and ospreys. The area boasts a healthy population of elk and mule deer, too. The scenic little mountain resort village of Mormon Lake is conveniently close to the camp, offering horseback rides, mountain bike rentals. You’ll also find a country store, service station, and a picturesque cowboy steak house there.
Fees: $16 (2011)
Water: Yes
Restrooms: Vault Toilets
Directions: Drive south from Flagstaff 20 miles on Forest Highway 3 (Lake Mary Road) to the intersection of Forest Road 90. Turn west on FR 90 and drive 3.5 miles to Dairy Springs Campground, 4.6 miles to Double Springs.