Best Dispersed Camping near Bellemont, AZ
Dispersed camping near Bellemont, Arizona offers several free primitive sites within the Coconino National Forest. Popular locations include FR 222 Dispersed, Pumphouse Wash (FR 237), Edge of the World (East Pocket), and Lava Tube Cave Path on Forest Road 171. These sites provide basic camping with no amenities, requiring visitors to be fully self-sufficient. Most areas feature existing fire rings and flat spots suitable for tents and smaller RVs. Several campers note the quiet, secluded nature of these sites, particularly FR 222, which one visitor described as having "extremely quiet days and nights."
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region. Most access roads are unpaved dirt or gravel, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles. During and after rain, roads can become muddy and difficult to navigate. According to reviews, many sites are accessible with standard vehicles if driven slowly and carefully, though 4WD is recommended for more remote locations. Visitors should be aware that some dispersed camping areas around Flagstaff have been closed by the Forest Service. Walnut Canyon Dispersed Camping is currently closed until 2025.
No drinking water, toilets, or trash facilities exist at these sites. Fire restrictions are common and strictly enforced, especially during dry periods. Campers must check current fire regulations before visiting. The elevation ranges from 6,000-7,500 feet, resulting in cooler temperatures year-round. Cell service is generally good with major carriers, particularly Verizon. The 14-day stay limit applies to all dispersed camping in the area. Wildlife sightings may include deer and various bird species. All visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles, as multiple reviewers have noted concerns about trash left at popular sites.