The Black River bisects the White Mountain and San Carlos Apache Indian Reservations in east central Arizona. This is a wilderness experience par none. With very few roads and no services, a long drive on primitive roads is necessary to reach most parts of the river. Smallmouth bass are the major angling choice in this pristine river.

Bear saftey is very important on the Black River. We usually always saw bears on our trips to the various sections of the river. We even had a juvenile bear we named Cinna-buns, raiding camps for food near ours. A clean camp free from food, coolers and trash is a good way to avoid confrontation with these wilderness residents.

You must obtain a daily permit from the particular Indian tribe's side you intend to camp on. The roads are sketchy and poorly marked, so a good map or someone that knows the area is a must.