Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Campgrounds in Arizona

Buffalo Crossing Campground

Photo: Alan Stark from Goodyear, AZ, United States / CC BY-SA 2.0

Campgrounds 7,900 ft Bortle 2 Solitude: 95/100 (remote)
At the southern end of the East Fork canyon is Buffalo Crossing Campground, an old Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC) era site which actually boasts the largest campsites along the river. The East Fork meanders through the forested valley shaded by tall ponderosa pines and bordered by grasses, alders, and cottonwoods. Campsites are located a few steps from the stream to protect the Black River's unique riparian zone, but access to the river is easy as the undergrowth serves more to enhance the river's picturesque nature than to obstruct easy passage. Click  here  for a map.

Near Eagar, AZ in Arizona

What to Pack for Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Pack with the terrain and wildlife in mind, and you'll be ready for anything here.

Don't underpack for Buffalo Crossing Campground. The conditions here — Forest, Temperate — call for thoughtful gear choices.

Essential

  • Water (minimum 2L) — Even cool-weather hiking demands steady hydration, as exertion and altitude increase water loss faster than most expect.
  • Navigation (map/GPS/compass) — Even well-marked trails have confusing junctions, especially in fog or snow; a GPS unit or downloaded map keeps you on route.
  • Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen) — Quality sunglasses prevent snow blindness and reduce eye strain during long days on exposed trails or ridgelines.
  • First aid kit — Adhesive bandages, antiseptic, and athletic tape handle the most common trail injuries and weigh under a pound.
  • Extra food — Blood sugar drops fast during sustained effort outdoors, and having a reserve keeps your body and mind sharp.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries — Batteries drain faster in cold weather; carrying spares ensures you won't be left in the dark when you need light most.
  • Fire starter — Starting a fire boosts morale and provides light, warmth, and a way to purify water in an emergency.
  • Emergency shelter (space blanket) — If an injury forces you to stop moving, a reflective blanket prevents the rapid heat loss that leads to hypothermia.
  • Knife or multi-tool — In a survival situation, a blade lets you process tinder, build shelter, and prepare food.
  • Extra clothing layer — Wet clothing accelerates cooling; a dry backup layer can prevent hypothermia when conditions turn.

Wildlife Gear

  • Hiking buddy (avoid solo) — Solo hikers are more vulnerable to predatory behavior from mountain lions, which typically avoid groups.
  • Noise maker — A loud whistle doubles as a rescue signal, serving both wildlife safety and emergency communication.
  • Gaiters — Beyond snakes, gaiters also protect against thorns, brush, and ticks in overgrown trail sections.
  • First-aid snakebite kit — A lightweight pressure bandage and marker for tracking swelling take up minimal space but provide critical aid.

Climate Gear

  • Insulated layers — Layering lets you regulate temperature as conditions change, preventing the sweat buildup that causes chills later.
  • Hand warmers — Beyond comfort, hand warmers can help treat mild hypothermia by warming blood flowing through the extremities.
  • Thermos — A thermos also works in reverse: cold water stays cold in summer heat, encouraging steady hydration.

Terrain Gear

  • Headlamp (extra) — A second light source is a fundamental safety redundancy in backcountry travel where help may be hours away.
  • Emergency bivy — In remote terrain where rescue may take hours or overnight, a bivy sack can prevent hypothermia in survivable conditions.
  • PLB/satellite messenger — Two-way satellite messengers also let you send check-in messages, reducing worry for contacts at home.
  • SPF50 lip balm — Reapply every 2 hours and after eating or drinking, as lip balm wears off faster than body sunscreen.

Seasonal Gear

  • Spring: Camera, Wildflower field guide
  • Fall: Camera, Binoculars (foliage viewing)
  • Winter: Microspikes/traction devices

Activities & Best Time to Visit Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

The Forest terrain here lends itself to a range of outdoor activities throughout the year.

Activity options at Buffalo Crossing Campground range from casual () to more demanding ().

The scenery here earns a 65/100 photography rating — Exceptional dark sky (Bortle 1-2) and 3 excellent meteor showers.

Activities

  • camping — From developed campgrounds to backcountry sites, it's a classic way to immerse yourself in nature.
  • picnicking — Whether lakeside or in a meadow, it's a relaxed way to savor both the setting and the company.
  • rv_camping — Hookups and designated sites make extended stays convenient.
  • stargazing — Clear, moonless nights provide the best conditions for celestial viewing.
  • walking — Perfect for all ages, a casual walk can turn any outdoor space into a relaxing nature experience.
  • wildlife_viewing — Bring binoculars and patience — nature often rewards careful, respectful observers.

Best months: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr

Terrain: Forest — Expect cooler temperatures and higher humidity under tree cover. Wildlife habitat is abundant, especially in mixed hardwood or conifer stands.

Wildlife Safety at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Before heading out, it helps to know which wildlife to be cautious around.

Responsible visitors at Buffalo Crossing Campground should be aware of 1 wildlife-related considerations.

Danger rating: 30/100 (based on terrain difficulty, wildlife presence, weather exposure, and remoteness) moderate
  • Mountain lions
  • Venomous snakes
  • Remote (158mi from city)
Altitude risk: mild
UV risk: high (Southern latitude (34N), Elevated (7,900ft), Forest canopy (shade))
Photo score: 65/100
  • Exceptional dark sky (Bortle 1-2)
  • 3 excellent meteor showers
  • Fall foliage
  • Spring wildflowers

Venomous Snakes

4 venomous snake species are found in this area: Western Diamondback, Mojave, Sidewinder, Arizona Coral Snake.

Western Diamondback

Broad triangular head, vertical pupils, and a stout body often exceeding 3 to 4 feet in length.

Remove constrictive items and remain calm; do not cut, suck, or apply ice to the wound.

Mojave

Distinct facial stripe behind the eye and a prominent rattle.

Keep the victim calm and monitor breathing while awaiting medical care.

Sidewinder

Usually under 2 feet long with a relatively short rattle.

Do not attempt to capture the snake; focus on reaching emergency care quickly.

Arizona Coral Snake

Head is blunt with a black snout.

Keep the victim calm and still while awaiting treatment.

  • Watch where you step and place hands
  • Stay on trails
  • Wear boots and long pants in snake country
  • Do not reach under rocks or logs
  • If bitten: stay calm, immobilize limb, seek medical help immediately
  • Do NOT: cut wound, suck venom, apply tourniquet, ice, or alcohol

Nature & Wildlife at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

The Forest terrain here supports a rich ecosystem worth noticing as you explore.

From towering Gambel Oak and Southwestern Ponderosa Pine to delicate upright prairie coneflower and Woods' rose, the vegetation here creates habitat for 7 mammal species and 11 birds.

Trees (2)

  • Gambel Oak
    Gambel Oak — Gambel oak is a small to medium deciduous tree with deeply lobed leaves that resemble classic oak shapes.
  • Southwestern Ponderosa Pine
    Southwestern Ponderosa Pine — Southwestern Ponderosa Pine is a large, long-needled conifer adapted to dry, high-elevation forests.

Wildflowers (6)

  • upright prairie coneflower
    upright prairie coneflower — Distinct elongated brown cone above reflexed petals.
  • Woods' rose
    Woods' rose — Red rose hips forming after flowering.
  • golden columbine
    golden columbine — Lantern-like blooms adapted to hummingbird pollination.
  • manyflowered gromwell
    manyflowered gromwell — Low clumping plant with narrow foliage.
  • cutleaf coneflower
    cutleaf coneflower — Multiple bright blooms forming loose clusters.

Other Plants (5)

  • western blue flag
  • Scarlet Gilia
  • great mullein
  • MacDougal verbena
  • scarlet cinquefoil

Mammals (7)

  • Wapiti
    Wapiti — Adults may weigh 500–1,000 pounds.
  • Bighorn Sheep
    Bighorn Sheep — Sure-footed build adapted to steep cliffs.
  • Mule Deer
    Mule Deer — Bucks carry branching antlers that fork rather than form a single main beam.
  • Pronghorn
    Pronghorn — Built for speed with long legs and large lungs.
  • Common Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel
    Common Golden-mantled Ground Squirrel — Bushy tail and alert posture.

Birds (11)

  • Wild Turkey
    Wild Turkey — Paler Rio Grande subspecies in the West
  • Canada Goose
    Canada Goose — Smaller cackling-type with shorter neck
  • Dark-eyed Junco
    Dark-eyed Junco — Pink-sided form with pale gray and buff flanks
  • Mountain Bluebird
    Mountain Bluebird — Slim thrush shape
  • Bufflehead
    Bufflehead — Compact body and short bill

Reptiles (5)

  • Western Terrestrial Garter Snake
    Western Terrestrial Garter Snake — Typically grows 18–36 inches long with a narrow head and round pupils.
  • Greater Short-horned Lizard
    Greater Short-horned Lizard — Typically under 5 inches long.
  • Ornate Tree Lizard
    Ornate Tree Lizard — Typically 4–6 inches long.
  • Southwestern Fence Lizard
    Southwestern Fence Lizard — Typically 5–8 inches long including tail.
  • Plateau Fence Lizard
    Plateau Fence Lizard — Usually 5–7 inches long including tail.

Amphibians (3)

  • Arizona Tree Frog
    Arizona Tree Frog
  • Western Tiger Salamander
    Western Tiger Salamander
  • Arizona Toad
    Arizona Toad

Insects (12)

  • Blue Fungus Beetle
    Blue Fungus Beetle
  • Ridings' Satyr
    Ridings' Satyr
  • Nokomis Fritillary
  • Common Ringlet
    Common Ringlet
  • Ruddy Copper
    Ruddy Copper

Fungi (6)

  • lobster mushroom
    lobster mushroom
  • Barrow's Bolete
  • Kaibab Jack
    Kaibab Jack
  • Spring Polypore
    Spring Polypore
  • Floccularia albolanaripes

Other Wildlife (1)

  • Speckled Dace

Nature Bingo at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Can you spot them all? Check off each species as you find it on your visit.

Wildlife Challenge

Botany Challenge

Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache Climate & Sun

The numbers behind the best (and worst) times to visit Buffalo Crossing Campground.

Reference climate data for planning your visit to Buffalo Crossing Campground — temperatures, precipitation, and daylight hours.

Climate type: Temperate

Annual avg temp: 46.4°F

Annual precipitation: 25.1 in

With an average annual temperature of 46.4°F and 25.1 inches of precipitation, Buffalo Crossing Campground has cool, moderate rainfall conditions. Summer highs average around 64°F, while winter lows drop to 31°F.

Best months to visit: May, Jun, Sep. Consider avoiding: Jan, Dec.

Month Avg Temp Precip
Jan 31°F 2.5 in
Feb 33°F 2.2 in
Mar 38°F 2.1 in
Apr 43°F 0.9 in
May 51°F 0.8 in
Jun 60°F 0.6 in
Jul 64°F 3.9 in
Aug 62°F 3.9 in
Sep 57°F 2.4 in
Oct 48°F 1.7 in
Nov 39°F 1.7 in
Dec 31°F 2.4 in

Daylight & Sun Times

Daylight ranges from 9.9 hours in winter to 14.4 hours in summer — a difference of 4.5 hours.

Summer: 5:05 AM – 7:28 PM

Winter: 7:14 AM – 5:10 PM

Winter Solstice: Sunrise 7:14 AM, Sunset 5:10 PM Golden hour from 4:32 PM
Summer Solstice: Sunrise 5:05 AM, Sunset 7:28 PM Golden hour from 6:52 PM
Spring Equinox: Sunrise 6:29 AM, Sunset 6:24 PM Golden hour from 5:51 PM
Fall Equinox: Sunrise 5:59 AM, Sunset 6:25 PM Golden hour from 5:52 PM

Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache Trip Planning & Access

Time to plan the details — access, cost, and travel information for your visit.

Here are the logistics for getting to Buffalo Crossing Campground and what to expect on arrival.

Nearest city: Phoenix (158 mi)
Estimated fuel cost: $39.51 (28 mpg, $3.5/gallon)
Carbon footprint: 127.7 kg CO2 (round trip by car)

Visitor Friendliness

Accessibility: dog-friendly (likely_allowed), family-friendly (excellent), elderly-friendly (highly_suitable).

  • Dogs: likely_allowed — No restrictions found
  • Families: excellent
  • Elderly: highly_suitable
  • Strollers: excellent (100/100)
  • Beginners: Good starting point (Good information available (+5))
  • Accessibility: Generally accessible to most visitors (95/100)

Places Near Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Looking for more? Here's what else is close by.

Close-by alternatives and additions to your Buffalo Crossing Campground visit include these 13 destinations.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Campgrounds

Stargazing & Night Sky at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

Clear nights in this area reveal more stars than most people expect.

The darkness at Buffalo Crossing Campground is rated Bortle class 2, offering Typical truly dark site conditions year-round.

Bortle 2 Typical truly dark site

Constellations

Key constellations visible from this latitude include Ursa Minor, Cepheus.

  • Ursa Minor
    Ursa Minor — Visible throughout the year in much of the United States, Ursa Minor rotates steadily around the North Celestial Pole.
  • Cepheus
    Cepheus — Though its stars are modest in brightness, Cepheus is visible year-round from most of the U.S.

Meteor Showers

The Geminids peaks around December 13-14 and is the best meteor shower visible from here.

  • Geminids
    Geminids — peaks December 13-14 (excellent)

    Find a dark location away from city lights and give your eyes 20–30 minutes to adjust for peak rates.

  • Quadrantids
    Quadrantids — peaks January 3-4 (excellent)

    Look toward the northern sky after midnight for the highest activity.

  • Perseids
    Perseids — peaks August 11-13 (excellent)

    Expect fast, bright meteors and occasional fireballs under dark skies.

  • Eta Aquariids
    Eta Aquariids — peaks May 5-6 (good)

    Plan for early morning viewing; activity increases in the hours just before sunrise.

  • Delta Aquariids
    Delta Aquariids — peaks July 28-29 (fair)

    Southern states often see stronger activity due to radiant placement.

Planets

Planets visible to the naked eye from this location:

  • Venus
    Venus — The brightest planet, often called the Morning or Evening Star
  • Jupiter
    Jupiter — The largest planet, bright and steady in the night sky
  • Saturn
    Saturn — Famous for its rings, visible as a golden steady light
  • Mars
    Mars — The Red Planet, recognizable by its reddish-orange hue

Equipment Guide

  • Naked eye: Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, Mercury (with care)
  • Binoculars: Jupiter moons, Uranus, Saturn rings (barely)
  • Small telescope: Saturn rings, Jupiter bands, Mars surface features, Neptune

Viewing Tips

  • Check planets rise/set times for your specific date
  • Planets appear along the ecliptic (zodiac path)
  • Planets don't twinkle like stars - steady light
  • Venus and Jupiter are unmistakable - brightest objects after Moon
  • Use a stargazing app to confirm planet positions
  • Best viewing: when planet is highest in sky (transit)

Best Viewing Months

  • Evening: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
  • Morning: Jul, Aug, Sep

Seasonal Highlights at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

What you'll encounter here shifts with the calendar — here's a seasonal overview.

The experience at Buffalo Crossing Campground shifts with the seasons. Here's a month-by-month overview.

Spring Wildflowers

Peak bloom: March - April

Check local park websites for bloom reports

Fall Foliage

Peak color: October 15 – November 5

Best trees for color: Maple, Oak, Aspen

Higher elevations peak 1-2 weeks earlier

Bird Migration

Spring peak: March - April

Fall peak: October - November

Best spots: Wetlands, coastlines, mountain ridges

Indigenous Land at Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache

The history of this land reaches back long before it became a recreation destination.

Before trails were marked here, Pueblos, Ndee/Nnēē: (Western Apache) knew this land intimately.

Territories

Languages

The languages traditionally spoken in this area include White Mountain.

Data from Native Land Digital

Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache Geology & Natural History

Beyond the trails and wildlife, Buffalo Crossing Campground sits within a landscape shaped by millions of years of geological processes. Here's what researchers and surveys have documented about this area.

Bedrock Geology

Rock Type
Pliocene to middle Miocene deposits
Lithology
Major:{conglomerate,sandstone}, Minor:{mudstone,siltstone,limestone,gypsum}
Age
Cenozoic

Mineral Deposits

Deposit Sites
11
Richness
Moderate
Minerals Found
Sand and Gravel, Construction, Volcanic Materials

Endangered Species

Species at Risk
2513
ESA Endangered
61
ESA Threatened
31
Conservation Score
100/100

Temperature Records

Record High
105°F (1970-07-14)
Record Low
-18°F (1990-12-23)

Wildfire History

This area has a relatively low wildfire risk, but always follow posted fire regulations.

Recorded Fires
211
Largest Fire
Wallow (538,051.6 acres)
Most Recent
2024
Fire Risk
Extreme

Watershed

Watershed
Grant Creek
Water Quality (Good)
0%
Impaired
0%

Reported Phenomena

Bigfoot Reports
1 (BFRO)
Eeriness Score
8/100

Buffalo Crossing Campground, Apache Safety & Conditions

Plans set? Check the latest conditions before you head out.

Before any visit to Buffalo Crossing Campground, a quick check of these official sources can prevent surprises.

Nearest weather station: NUTRIOSO 1.9 WSW, AZ US (12.39 mi)

Coordinates: 33.791, -109.358

Packing List Star Guide ↑ Top
Buffalo Crossing Campground
Arizona · 7,900 ft · Campgrounds · 33.791°N, -109.358°W

Emergency Information

In case of emergency: Call 911

Nearest town: Eagar, AZ

Venomous snakes present — Watch where you step (Western Diamondback,Mojave,Sidewinder,Arizona Coral Snake)

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