This Secluded Campground Near Mogollon Rim Is One of Arizona’s Best Kept Secrets

One of my favorite small towns to visit in Arizona is Payson. Just 90 minutes from my house brings me from the Sonoran Desert into the Tonto National Forest, filled with towering Ponderosa pine trees and weather that's typically 15-20 degrees cooler. At 5,000 feet in elevation, Payson sits at the foot of the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile escarpment at the edge of the Colorado Plateau with an elevation of 7,500-8,000 feet. The cooler weather entices visitors from lower-elevation towns and cities in Arizona who wish to escape the triple-digit summer temperatures, making it an ideal weekend getaway destination. While certain parts of Payson see summer crowds, there are some areas where you can find more solitude. Close to a lake on the Mogollon Rim, Knoll Lake Campground is a secluded campground in Arizona where you can enjoy the quiet of nature, take in views, and access a lake. It's a peaceful retreat for a summer camping getaway.

Where This Campground Is and How Close It Is to the Mogollon Rim

For secluded camping near the Mogollon Rim, there's no better destination than Knoll Lake Campground. In fact, this campground is situated on the rim, giving campers endless views of this majestic landmark plus access to Knoll Lake. Knoll Lake Campground is like a best-kept secret and one of the most secluded and remote camping spots in Arizona.

The campground is located 80 miles southeast of Flagstaff via Lake Mary Road and State Route 87 (both paved) to Forest Road 95 (unpaved) past the Mogollon Rim Ranger Station, and 54 miles from Payson via AZ-260 E, which climbs up the Mogollon Rim. Tucked in the Coconino National Forest, Knoll Lake Campground has 30 campsites that can accommodate tents and RVs up to 32 feet long. There are no electric or water hookups here, but potable water is available, as well as a vault toilet. At each site is a picnic table, fire pit, and grill. If you're looking for quiet, hidden campgrounds in Arizona, you'll certainly experience that here!

Things to Do Nearby

When camping at Knoll Lake Campground, exploring the scenic surroundings of the Mogollon Rim, Knoll Lake, and the town of Payson is a must. The Mogollon Rim towers 2,000 feet above Payson, serving as an impressive backdrop with natural features that transition from a high plateau to lush forest. If you decide to head into Payson, you'll discover numerous nature spots, including Tonto Bridge Natural Park, to marvel at what's believed to be the largest natural travertine bridge in the world. You should also visit the stunning Water Wheel Falls for a hike and a dip in one of the swimming holes by a waterfall along the river — it's the perfect nature escape!

You'll also find plenty of restaurants in Payson, including Beeline Cafe (a favorite of mine for breakfast and lunch), Buffalo Bar & Grill, and Creekside Tavern, where you can grab a bite to eat before heading back up the rim to your campsite.

Back at the campground, your campsite will be close to Knoll Lake, a medium-sized body of water at 75 acres, surrounded by Ponderosa pine trees and stocked with trout. You can also go fishing or swimming, or bring a kayak or canoe for a paddle. Small motorized boats are also allowed. Hiking in the areas around the lake is also a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of Rim Country.

Tips for Visiting

Reservations are not accepted at Knoll Lake Campground; it is first-come, first-served. A single campsite costs $20 per night for up to eight people and two vehicles, while a double campsite costs $40 per night for up to 16 people and four vehicles. You must bring cash to pay the camping fees; credit cards are not accepted. Open seasonally from mid-May through early September, those who wish to camp here can check in at 2 p.m. daily. Check-out is at 11 a.m. on the day of your departure.

There are a few rules to follow when camping here: quiet hours are set from 10 p.m. to 6 p.m., cutting down live trees is strictly prohibited, fire restrictions must be followed, and pets must always remain on a leash. The campground also has a 14-day maximum stay. Visit the U.S. Forest Service website for more information, including directions to Knoll Lake Campground.

Discover the best campgrounds in Arizona for every type of camper; from tent, RV, and off-the-grid camping to glamping across the state, this list has something for everyone! For more nature escapes across the Grand Canyon State, make plans to visit the best waterfalls in Arizona.