Within Coconino National Forest, Forest Road 525 Camping Area offers free dispersed camping along a dirt and gravel forest road. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in area that accommodates everything from Class A motorhomes to tents, though campers should prepare for slow travel on the access road.
Multiple designated camping zones spread along the route, with the first large area appearing about half a mile in. This initial spot features portable toilets and space for 10 or more rigs, while additional sites continue 3-4 miles further for those seeking more privacy. The red clay soil can become muddy during wet conditions, particularly challenging for campers with dogs. Cell service reaches the area with both Verizon and AT&T providing coverage.
Mountain views extend across the forested and open terrain, with hiking and biking trails accessible directly from several camping areas. The Powerline OHV Trail runs near some sites. Terry O. found it "nice and quiet with great views around the area" and noted the clean portable facilities. Nearby options include Loy Butte Road North Site and Greasy Spoon Dispersed Area.
Check road conditions before arrival, especially after recent precipitation when clay surfaces become slick.
Description
While much of the Forest is open to dispersed camping, there are several sites set aside as designated dispersed camping sites, listed below. Pick up or download a free Motor Vehicle Use Map to know where it is legal to drive. See Guidelines for information and policies, and Specific Sites for more details and contact information.
Know before you go! Be aware extreme winter weather or flooding risks can necessitate the closure of forest roads at different times of the year. Many forest roads that lead to dispersed campsites may be closed during seasonal road closures, so please check the Forest Road Status web page for more information about the status of forest roads in each District.
Fire restrictions may be in place. During fire restrictions, campfires, fires, and charcoal fires are not permitted in dispersed camping areas. This includes both Stage 1 and Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. Gas operated devices with an on/off switch are allowed
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsForest Road 525 Camping Area is located in Arizona near Sedona
Coordinates
34.86873460211391 N
111.90372520009689 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 34 usersLast on 6/10/26- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 6/10/26
AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 11 usersLast on 6/10/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 34 usersLast on 6/10/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 47 usersLast on 6/10/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 11 usersLast on 6/10/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
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.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 4 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 1 hr 5 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 1 hr 39 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 57 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
