Dairy Springs Campground under tall pines near Mormon Lake
Shaded loop Site with table and ring Ponderosa stand Trail nearby Evening light Kiosk and spigot Camp setup Camp setup Camp setup
Reservable Family Friendly Mormon Lake Area Vault Toilets Water (Seasonal)
Overview

Ponderosa shade and a steady breeze - an easy base near Mormon Lake.

Dairy Springs is low-drama camping: paved approach, tidy loops, and big trees that keep daytime temps sane. I use it as a “bring-the-crew” spot - tables, rings, and enough space to spread out without feeling stacked.

It is popular on weekends. Even so, sunset in the pines does what it always does - quiet camp, warm light, and the smell of woodsmoke when fires are legal.


Why go Shade, reservable sites, and quick access to Mormon Lake and the Lake Mary corridor.
Watch out for Seasonal water, weekend noise, and afternoon wind through the trees.

Loop edges feel more private. I like corners with a little understory to block sightlines.

At a Glance
Region
SE of Flagstaff - Mormon Lake
Elevation
~7,100 ft
Access
Paved to campground
Season
Typically late spring-fall
Sites
Tent/RV; no hookups
Facilities
Tables, rings, vault toilets, water (seasonal)
Reservations
Recreation.gov recommended
Cell
Spotty to decent along corridor
Coordinates (area)
34.9588° N, 111.4695° W
Getting There

From Flagstaff, head south on Lake Mary Road (FH 3) toward Mormon Lake. Dairy Springs is signed; the approach is fully paved.

  1. Top off water and ice in town - treat campground spigots as seasonal.
  2. Mind elk, cyclists, and variable cell coverage along FH 3.
  3. Check the kiosk for fire status, quiet hours, and any closures.

Arrive early on Fridays. Weeknight turnover is your friend for walk-ups.

Camping Info
  • Sites: Level pads with table and ring; tent and small/medium RVs welcome.
  • Hookups: None - observe posted generator hours.
  • Fires: Only when restrictions allow; cold-out every time.
  • Restrooms: Vault toilets - bring sanitizer.
  • Trash: If bins are full, pack out. Do not leave bags out overnight.
  • Pets: Leash in camp - mind burrs, sap, and hot pavement.
  • Nearby: Mormon Lake viewpoints, short forest walks, and corridor day-use spots.
My Notes

I treat Dairy Springs as a relaxed basecamp - slow mornings, a mid-day shade break, and a golden-hour lap through the trees.

  • Timing: Weeknights are mellow - Friday fills quick.
  • Setup: Ground mat plus tarp give you a dust-free kitchen.
  • Play: Bring a paddle board or binocs - lake action when water is in.
Gear I Used

Gear that actually helped on this trip.

Map

General area map. Save offline if you can.

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