Within Tonto National Forest, Apache Trail North Camp provides free dispersed camping along a gravel access road near Tortilla Flat. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in and walk-in site where campers can bring pets and enjoy campfires under Arizona's open skies.
Multiple camping spots spread across the area, with some featuring existing fire rings. Jarred T. notes the terrain "not intense off reading or anything, but not suitable for trailers." The exposed location means wind can be a factor, though campers wake up surrounded by classic Sonoran Desert landscape. Power lines cross portions of the area, but elevated spots north of the main camping zone offer broader views.
The campground sits roughly 15 minutes from a small ghost town and about 35 minutes from larger urban areas, making it accessible for Phoenix-area campers seeking free camping around Tonto National Forest. Other nearby options include Tonto National Forest Tortilla Campground just over a mile away.
This spot works well for tent campers and smaller RVs comfortable with gravel roads, particularly those who value cost-free camping and don't mind wind exposure in exchange for desert views.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingApache Trail North Camp is located in Arizona
Coordinates
33.53590566 N
111.3775516 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 4/24/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/24/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 user
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 15 usersLast on 4/24/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 4/24/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Apache Trail North Camp needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 53 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 57 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 3 hrs 59 min from Tucson, AZ
- 4 hrs 40 min from Flagstaff, AZ














