Kaibab Lake
A serene 45-acre lake nestled in pine forests, offering fishing, camping, and peaceful natural beauty near Williams, AZ.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fall colors
Kaibab Lake
Best Time
Crisp air, fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 45-acre lake nestled in pine forests, offering fishing, camping, and peaceful natural beauty near Williams, AZ.
"This lake was so quiet and peaceful. Plenty of space to set up your own little area for fishing."
Reserve your spot online
Popular campgrounds like Kaibab Lake fill up fast. Book ahead on recreation.gov! :admission_tickets:
Pack for changing weather
Northern AZ can be chilly, especially in fall. Bring layers for warmth. :cloud:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kaibab Lake Campground
Near Williams, AZ
A serene campground offering lakeside sites, picnic areas, and a fishing pier. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
Kaibab Lake
Enjoy a relaxing day fishing or watch for osprey and killdeer. The lake is a haven for local wildlife.
Peaceful Morning Views
Kaibab Lake
Experience breathtaking sunrises and tranquil mornings surrounded by pine forests. Ideal for photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Campsite Early
Prepare for Variable Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve your spot online
Popular campgrounds like Kaibab Lake fill up fast. Book ahead on recreation.gov!
:admission_tickets:Pack for changing weather
Northern AZ can be chilly, especially in fall. Bring layers for warmth.
:cloud:Enjoy the wildlife
Keep an eye out for osprey and other birds. They're a highlight!
:bird:Bring your fishing gear
The lake is known for good fishing. Relax by the water and cast a line.
:fishingpoleand_வத:Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve your spot online
Popular campgrounds like Kaibab Lake fill up fast. Book ahead on recreation.gov!
:admission_tickets:Pack for changing weather
Northern AZ can be chilly, especially in fall. Bring layers for warmth.
:cloud:Enjoy the wildlife
Keep an eye out for osprey and other birds. They're a highlight!
:bird:Bring your fishing gear
The lake is known for good fishing. Relax by the water and cast a line.
:fishingpoleand_வத:Consider day visits
You can visit for the day even if not camping. Enjoy the scenery and activities.
:sunwithface:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kaibab Lake for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly environment. It's a great spot for fishing, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the serene pine forest setting. Some note that the lake water level can appear low at times, and vault toilets are the primary restroom facility.
"Beautiful area lots of camping space. Lake water level looks little low."
DINO Munoz
"It was nice and family friendly. We walked around the lake and enjoyed the scenery. Definitely a relaxing place to go fishing. I believe you can camp here as well, when it's not freezing."
Anthony
"Awesome northern az lake, good fishing and beautiful views! Has vault toilets and campsites."
Brett B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaibab Lake is located about 4 miles northeast of Williams, Arizona. It's a short drive, easily accessible by car. Many visitors use it as a base for exploring the Grand Canyon, which is also nearby.
Yes, Kaibab Lake is accessible for RVs, and the campground offers sites suitable for them. It's a popular spot for RV road trips.
From Williams, head northeast. The lake and campground are well-marked and a short distance from town, making it easy to find.
Yes, Kaibab Lake is conveniently located just minutes away from the Grand Canyon, making it a great option for camping or a peaceful retreat after visiting the national park.
Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Kaibab Lake, especially if you're coming from Williams or planning to visit nearby attractions like the Grand Canyon.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific day-use fees aren't always clearly listed online, camping at Kaibab Lake Campground requires reservations and a fee, typically around $32 per night. First-come, first-served sites may be cash only.
Reservations for Kaibab Lake Campground can be made on recreation.gov. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Kaibab Lake and its surrounding campground are generally open year-round, though weather conditions can affect accessibility. The lake itself is accessible for day use during daylight hours.
Camping requires a fee. For day visitors, information on specific day-use fees can be inconsistent online, but the area is generally accessible for enjoying the scenery.
Yes, you can visit Kaibab Lake for the day to enjoy the scenery, picnic, or fish without staying overnight in the campground.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy fishing from the pier or shore, paddleboarding, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground offers a peaceful setting for relaxation.
The campground has vault toilets. Potable water is available, but it's always a good idea to bring your own water supply.
While the lake is suitable for activities like paddleboarding, swimming is not a primary advertised activity. The focus is more on fishing and enjoying the natural surroundings.
Visitors have reported seeing turkey vultures, killdeer, and osprey, with the latter often seen diving for fish. It's a great spot for birdwatching.
Yes, Kaibab Lake is considered family-friendly. The campground offers a safe environment, and activities like walking around the lake and enjoying nature are great for kids.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or food services directly at Kaibab Lake. Visitors should plan to bring their own food and drinks for picnics or camping meals.
The closest dining options are in the town of Williams, Arizona, which offers various restaurants, cafes, and diners.
Yes, Kaibab Lake has designated picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a scenic outdoor meal.
It's best to pack all your food and beverages. Consider easy-to-prepare camping meals or picnic items. Don't forget snacks and plenty of water.
The town of Williams has grocery stores where you can stock up on supplies before heading to the lake.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer beautiful sunrise light and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for capturing serene lake views. Evenings can also provide lovely light for photography.
Popular subjects include the lake itself, the surrounding pine forests, wildlife like osprey, and the campground scenery. Sunrises and sunsets are also highly sought after.
The small dock at the lake is a popular spot for photos. Exploring the campground and shoreline can also reveal unique photographic opportunities.
A versatile lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography during sunrise or sunset.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with the local forest service or campground management for any restrictions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the campground has vault toilets, which might not be ideal for all families, the overall experience is highly positive. Booking campsites in advance is recommended to ensure a spot for your family. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to nearby Williams.
🎣 Anglers and Nature Lovers
The chance to observe wildlife, such as osprey diving for fish, adds an extra layer of excitement. The quiet mornings and evenings are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty and disconnecting from the hustle and bustle. It's a place to relax, recharge, and connect with the outdoors.
🚗 Road Trippers and Day-Trippers
Its location near Williams makes it easily accessible. If you're on a longer journey, consider it for a peaceful lunch stop or a brief exploration of Arizona's diverse landscapes beyond the desert. The lake provides a different, more forested, natural experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Camping at Kaibab Lake
Campers often highlight the proximity to other attractions like Bearizona and the Grand Canyon, making it a convenient base for exploring Northern Arizona. While the campground is generally well-maintained, be prepared for variable weather conditions, particularly during the fall months. Packing layers is essential for a comfortable camping experience.
Fishing and Wildlife
For nature enthusiasts and photographers, the opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat is a significant highlight. The tranquil environment of the lake provides an excellent backdrop for wildlife photography. Remember to bring your fishing gear and binoculars to make the most of these natural encounters.
Photography Opportunities
Popular photographic subjects include the lake's reflections, the small dock, and any wildlife that happens to be present. The changing seasons also offer unique visual opportunities, from the crispness of fall to the potential for snow in winter. Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Kaibab Lake provides ample opportunities for stunning shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit