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Childs Camping Area

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Within Coconino National Forest, Childs Camping Area provides free dispersed camping along the Verde River for those willing to navigate a challenging approach. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in site that requires about an hour on unpaved roads, with the final stretch demanding careful maneuvering around rough spots.

Campers set up directly beside the Verde River, where vault toilets serve the camping area. The site attracts a mix of visitors, from hikers accessing nearby Fossil Creek to those seeking the Verde Hot Springs located roughly a mile from camp. "Dispersed camping right on the Verde River," as Amy R. describes it, means no designated sites or tables. Weekend crowds can bring large, loud groups, while weekdays tend toward quieter conditions.

The remote location means bringing all supplies, since the nearest store sits in Camp Verde after that lengthy dirt road journey. Pets and alcohol are permitted, and trash service helps maintain the area. Bulls occasionally wander through the campground, adding an element of wildlife encounter. Those exploring beyond this site can find options at Childs Rapid Camp nearby.

The hot springs hike requires crossing the river, so pack accordingly for wet feet and potential nudist encounters that some families may want to avoid.

Fee Info

Free. There is no fee for dispersed camping at undeveloped camping areas on the Coconino National Forest. There are no amenities at this camping area.

Reservation Info

5 Day Stay Limit and Public Nudity is Prohibited (see Forest Order) Seasonal closures or fire restrictions/closures may be in place. During both Stage 1 and Stage 2 Fire Restrictions, campfires are prohibited at this site. Gas operated devices with an on/off switch are allowed. https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/coconino/landmanagement/?cid=stelprdb5331631&width=full#FireRestrictions

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Location

Public Campground

Childs Camping Area is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

Location: About 30 miles southeast of Camp Verde or 86 miles south of Flagstaff off paved and graveled roads some of which are always steep and rough and usually muddy after rains. GPS (Map): 34°20'52.9"N 111°41'50.5"W Access: From the White Bridge in Camp Verde, go east on Hwy 260 6.8 miles to FR 708 (Fossil Creek Road); turn right and go 15 miles to the junction of FR 708 and FR 502. Go south on FR 502 for 6 miles of VERY BAD Road to the Childs Power Plant and the Verde River.

Coordinates

34.34801182 N
111.69738167 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 3/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 3/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 3/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 3/21/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the scenic riverside camping and nearby hot springs access. Many mentioned the challenging hour-long dirt road drive and basic facilities with no water or amenities. Parents should note nudist activity at hot springs.

GThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Oct. 20, 2024

Be prepared

I really like the place, however, and this is a big however. The road in is 20 miles or so, and it's all unprepared, so for a smaller vehicle like mine, I had to be very careful. That 20 miles takes about an hour and a half. Remember everything you need before coming into child's. It's a long day if you have to run to the store Trust me, I spent 5 hours there and back. Hot springs are a mile from my campsite. River seems pretty nice. Gonna wet a worm see if the sucker's. biting although there are a couple protected species of suckers.

Sitefirst one down the hill
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Gregg T., October 20, 2024
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Gregg T., October 20, 2024
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Gregg T., October 20, 2024
A
Reviewed Jul. 23, 2018

Peaceful hippy haven during the week...Party central on weekends!

NOT family friendly...unless you don't mind your tiny humans seeing naked people wandering around. Other than that, awesome place to visit!! Dispersed camping right on the Verde River. The drive in from the highway takes about an hour on a dirt road and can be done in a standard clearance vehicle. However, the last stretch is rough and must be carefully maneuvered. If you visit during the week, it will likely peaceful and not crowded. Weekends are the opposite, with quite a few large groups of loud party types. Vault toilet; no potable water; no firewood; no tables and closest store is in Camp Verde. The 1.5 mile hike from the campground to the hot springs is absolutely worth the effort. You will have to cross the river, so don't take anything that can't get wet.

Month of VisitMay
Joshua S.
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2018

Riverside camping with nearby hot springs

Great campground for finishing, swimming, soaking and hiking! Lots of activities within a short distance. The drive is about an hour on a dirt road, but this does not deter visitors. Depending on the season the campground can get full. Fossil Creek is nearby and does not have camping, so many hikers come to Childs. Verde Hot Springs is about a mile from the campsite and offers a few pools for soaking with an amazing view of the Verde River. Be prepared though, this is an area that attracts nudists, so if that's not your thing you may want to camp further to the east in the campground and avoid the hot springs.

Month of VisitMarch
Jess G.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Apr. 6, 2018

Paradise

Llittle hippy campground in the middle of the desert! Trails to a hot spring and next to fossil creek water fall. Vault toilet and camping right next to the river. Watch for bulls roaming the campground!

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Jess G., April 6, 2018
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Jess G., April 6, 2018
  • Review photo of Childs Camping Area by Jess G., April 6, 2018
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Childs Dispersed Camping Area located in Arizona?

Childs Dispersed Camping Area is located in central Arizona along the Verde River. The campground is situated in a desert setting that requires navigation via a lengthy dirt road approximately 20 miles long from the highway. It's positioned near Fossil Creek waterfall and provides access to hot springs. The remote location contributes to its unique character, but visitors should plan for the extended drive time on unprepared roads, which typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half to traverse.

What amenities are available at Childs Dispersed Camping Area?

Childs Dispersed Camping Area offers basic amenities including vault toilets and camping spots adjacent to the Verde River. The area is primitive, maintaining its natural desert character. While facilities are minimal, the location provides access to numerous outdoor activities. Be prepared for occasional wildlife, including bulls that have been known to roam the campground area. As a dispersed camping area, you should bring all necessary camping supplies and prepare for a rustic outdoor experience.

Is Childs Dispersed Camping Area free to use?

Childs Dispersed Camping Area appears to be free to use. As a dispersed camping location on public land, there are no established fee collection systems in place. However, always check with land management agencies before your trip as regulations and fees can change. Remember that free camping comes with the responsibility to practice Leave No Trace principles and properly manage your waste.

Is there water access at Childs Dispersed Camping Area?

Yes, Childs Dispersed Camping Area offers excellent water access. The campground is situated directly alongside the Verde River, providing opportunities for fishing and swimming. Additionally, there are trails leading to nearby hot springs, and Fossil Creek waterfall is located in the vicinity. While natural water sources are abundant for recreation, you should still bring your own drinking water as potable water is not provided at this primitive camping area.

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