Drift Fence Lake Campground sits on the White Mountain Apache Indian Reservation in Whiteriver, Arizona, offering a remote and peaceful camping experience in the heart of Arizona's scenic White Mountains. This 16-acre alpine lake is surrounded by towering aspen and ponderosa pine trees, creating a pristine natural setting for RV camping and outdoor recreation.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, toilet facilities, and trash service. Recreation permits are required for all activities. The lake is stocked with Rainbow and Brook trout, making it ideal for fishing enthusiasts. The remote location and high elevation provide an authentic wilderness camping experience—visitors should arrive self-contained as facilities are minimal.
Drift Fence Lake serves as an excellent base for exploring the greater White Mountain Apache Reservation, which spans over 1.6 million acres. Nearby attractions include Sunrise Park Resort (Arizona's largest ski resort with year-round activities), Fort Apache Historic Park featuring 27 preserved buildings, the ancient Kinishba Ruins National Historic Landmark, and the Apache Cultural Center. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking at Mt. Baldy and Hawley Lake Recreation Area, whitewater rafting on the Salt River, and access to numerous scenic trails throughout the reservation. For information, contact (928) 338-4385.