The main attraction at Riggs Flat Campground is Riggs Flat Lake. Some come to fish in it, some to boat on it, and some just to enjoy the reflective beauty this small (11 acre) lake adds to such a scenic area. The dam which forms was financed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department in 1957 to provide trout fishing for forest recreationists. The Department now stocks its waters with rainbow trout about once a month from May 15 through September 14. Brown and brook trout are stocked once a year in October.
Boats are permitted on the lake may be powered by no more than a single electric trolling motor.
Location: Riggs Flat Campground is located in the Pinaleño Mountains 40 miles southwest of Safford.
Access: From Safford drive south 8 miles on US 191 to AZ 366. Turn right (southwest) onto 366 and drive 29 miles to the Columbine Visitor Information Station. Continue along Forest Roads 803 and 287 about 5 miles to the campground. The entire road is narrow and winding. This campground is accessible from April 15 through November 14, weather permitting.
Elevation: 8,600'
Season: April 15 through November 14, weather and fire conditions permitting.
Attractions:
Trout fishing
Cool mountain weather
Great scenery/nearby overlook
Watchable wildlife
Hiking trails
Facilities:
31 individual sites
One small group site
Tables and fire grills
Vault toilets
Notes:
No drinking water available. Bring your own.
RV’s up to 22' and vehicles with trailers less than 21' are recommended. Longer vehicles have difficulty negotiating the switchbacks on the road up the mountain (AZ 366).
Trail #321 leads from the end of the group site to a scenic overlook about a mile away.
Lakeshore Trail (0.6 miles) and Jesus Babcock Trail (1.1 miles) are located in the vicinity of the lake.
A valid Arizona fishing license and trout stamp are required to fish in Riggs Lake.
Nearest first aid is Mt. Graham Community Hospital in Safford, 42 miles away.
Pack and saddle stock are not permitted in campground.
