Deer Creek is one of a string of campgrounds located on the East Fork of the Black River. All of the campgrounds on the East Fork are first come first served. Deer Creek is a nice campground which is only 50 yards or so from the East Fork of the Black River. The dirt road is well maintained but can get dusty over the weekends. All of the campsites on the river fill quickly every weekend so be sure to arrive early or come during the week. Every time I have been there has been Sunday – Tuesday and I have missed the weekend crowd every time. This stretch of river is my favorite place to camp in Arizona. Fishing is fantastic and the scenery is stunning. The campsites are well shaded by Ponderosa pines.
Fishing on the East Fork has its rewards. This is fly fishing heaven. Rainbow, brook and brown trout can be easily caught on the East Fork of the Black River. an 11 pound 7 ounce rainbow was caught here in 2003 just above Aspen Campground. Occasionally you might catch an Apache trout (noted by it’s green scales) or a smallmouth bass that might work its way up the river during the summer months.
Directions
From the Big Lake entrance head up the dirt road east towards Three Forks, 7.5 miles on FR 113 which turns into FR 249. Turn Right at the FR 403 (signs also guide the way) and travel 3 miles to FR 276. Follow FR 276 along the river approx. 5.5 miles to the campground.
General Notes
- Elevation: 7645′
- Campsites: 6
- Season: May to October
- Stay Limit: 14 Days
- Fee: Yes
- First come first served campground. No reservations are accepted here
- Potable water: Yes
- Waste Disposal: At Big Lake
- Restrooms: Vault
- Showers: At Big Lake
- Nearest Store: At Big Lake
- Utility Hookups: No
- Information 928-333-4301
- Rock Fire Rings
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