OHV enthusiasts and mountain bikers will find direct trail access from this dispersed camping area in Coconino National Forest, located along Loy Butte Road about two miles from the main highway. The site consists of multiple dirt pullouts that accommodate everything from passenger cars to large RVs, with the terrain mixing forested sections and open areas.
The camping experience here centers around a large dirt lot format where Momo H. observed "about 20 campers in a big dirt lot" that expanded to "60+ campers but quiet the whole night." Most campers arrive in the evening after spending days exploring Sedona or hiking nearby trails. Hot air balloons provide early morning entertainment as they drift overhead during sunrise hours.
Road conditions vary significantly with weather, particularly after rainfall when the dirt surface transforms into what one reviewer described as "wet concrete mud." The main pullout closest to the highway includes portable toilets and tends to fill first, though additional camping areas extend further up the road. Cell service remains available throughout most of the area, and the proximity to Sedona makes this a convenient base for day trips into town.
Access requires navigating about 1.5 miles of rough road conditions, though standard vehicles can manage the route with careful driving. Some designated sites may be blocked with rocks periodically, but ample space typically remains available. The area sees heavy use on weekends, with Katherine J. noting "a lot of off roading that goes on in the area but it stops before dusk." For those exploring the broader region, camping near Coconino National Forest provides additional options.
This spot works best for self-sufficient campers comfortable with primitive conditions and willing to share space with fellow travelers using Sedona as their base camp.
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 & DirectionsSurprise, West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping is located in Arizona near Coconino National Forest Recreation
Coordinates
34.823248 N
111.905784 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 39 usersLast on 5/9/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 64 usersLast on 5/9/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 5/9/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 39 usersLast on 5/9/26
- Verizon5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 64 usersLast on 5/9/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 5/9/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
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
- 51 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 52 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 1 hr 27 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 45 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ























