This free dispersed camping area sits along Forest Service Road 253, where the paved road transitions to dirt and gravel surfaces. The US Forest Service maintains this site within Coconino National Forest, offering both drive-in and walk-in access for RVs and tent campers.
The campground divides into two distinct sections. A large parking area near the road entrance accommodates larger RVs on relatively level ground, while deeper forest sites require navigating dirt paths with significant ruts. Rick M. notes "there's two sections to this campground" and describes the forest portion as having "a lot of dirt paths with a lot of deep, very deep ruts." Pine trees provide shade across many sites, and a small pond sits within the camping area.
The location supports group camping with dozens of available sites spread across the wooded terrain. Cell service reaches most areas, and campers can hear wildlife sounds despite proximity to the interstate. Road conditions vary seasonally, with mud and sticky surfaces possible after snow or rain. The site allows campfires, pets, and alcohol, making it accessible for various camping styles.
This spot works well for RV groups needing free camping with easy highway access, though smaller vehicles handle the interior forest roads more easily than large rigs.
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. Where can I have a campfire during Stage I Fire Restrictions?
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundForest Service Road 253 Dispersed is located in Arizona
Coordinates
34.96871334837469 N
111.69388166812621 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 5/5/26- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 83 usersLast on 5/5/26
AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 5/5/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileLTEGood CoverageVerified by 25 usersLast on 5/5/26
- VerizonLTEGood CoverageVerified by 83 usersLast on 5/5/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 5 usersLast on 5/5/26
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
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Forest Service Road 253 Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 14 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 58 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 1 hr 33 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 8 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ
