Bear Canyon Lake, Overguard Az area

beautiful area, actually Forest Service campground, multiple vaults for camping use, really large area set aside for camping.

Dirt road back into the campground, somewhat washboarded because of the high volume of use, but saw it being graded while I was there so they pay attention to it. Saw rangers 4 to 5 times a week while I was there.

The approach to the lake can be problematic if your a kayaker/canoer, it's down a switchback trail of about a 1/4 mile. not too steep, but tight manuvering if your carrying anything large. The water is very picturesque, and I hear there is good trout there.. I barely tried, but didnt catch anything. there are 2 other approaches that can be used to the lake, one is forest road 208 from the west end, and the other goes to the back side of the lake. The area accessed by forest road 208 does have campsites but no facilities, the back of the lake is pretty much undeveloped and you can find plenty of spots there. the advantage of the backside is that there is an access road that would make bringing in a boat much easier, you cannot drive to the water, but taking the 1/4 mile on a smooth incline is easier than switchbacking.

by the time I left here, I had been approached by the Forest service and asked to host here the next summer. I still have the contact info, but so far unwilling to commit to that.

Upper Pinal Campground, Near Globe Az

first camp when I became a dweller was the Upper Pinal Campground on the top of Pinal Mountain just to the southwest of Globe Az.  Even though it was June in the desert, the top of the mountain was comfortable with highs in the mid 80’s.  There were only 3 campsites there, though I suppose that out of the campround you could find spaces to park for overnights.. didnt see many folks up there in the 10 days I stayed and liked it that way. There was no water available there, but a clean vault toilet was avail. the 3 sites had either fire rings or in the case of mine, a grill, and there was plenty of forage for firewood.

The days were very comfortable for the summer, and nights were great. though when thunderstorms rolled through, they were right on top of you!

While there, I saw a few deer, 1 skunk, 1 western Rattlesnake, and what I 'Think' was stinging nettle.. which is edible for foraging.. I didnt know enough then so didnt try any, will fix that when I go back.

The road up to the campground is dirt/gravel, and very windy and in some cases almost single lane.. not someplace you want to take a long trailer or 5th wheel to.

I do recommend it!