Ashurst Lake Campground

The dirt road to the campground seems like you're in the middle of nowhere, but eventually you pull up the the campground and see the beautiful lake! (My Toyota Corolla did just fine on the dirt road--not sure how it would be in winter). When we arrived, there was maybe one other person there--I love a quiet campsite! The fire pit and tent area was great and so close to the water! I went mid-September, so it got pretty chilly at night, but as long as you have a good sleeping bag and blankets, you should be fine! My dog also enjoyed sniffing and exploring the area surrounding the lake. Definitely recommend if you're looking for a peaceful escape near Flagstaff!

The road in will make you think it's yet another AZ forest road that promises a lake but fails to deliver -- but stick with it! Happy the Dog and I visited September 23, 2016, late in the year -- camp hosts advised that freezing temperatures were expected that night, but I bundled up and slept like a bug in a rug. No one but us at the site. It was so peaceful in the morning that I pulled out a good book and enjoyed the solitude for 8 wonderful hours. As the sun rose, I peeled off first hat, then jacket, then sweatshirt, then shirt, enjoying the cool warmth on my skin while drinking coffee and watching the lake. Stayed way longer than I expected, but left refreshed and invigorated.