Dispersed camping options around Chambers, Arizona include both public land sites and wilderness camping in Petrified Forest National Park. The region sits at approximately 5,500 feet elevation with semi-arid climate conditions, experiencing temperature swings of up to 40°F between day and night. Winter nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing while summer days frequently exceed 90°F with minimal shade available throughout the area.
What to do
Visit Petrified Forest National Park: Located about 30 minutes from Chambers, this park offers backcountry camping opportunities. "It's an easy hike down from the painted desert inn down and into the wilderness. Permits are free and easy to obtain," notes one visitor to Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area. Another camper adds, "See the night sky stars, a very wary herd of pronghorn antelope, the Triassic Chinle Formation that gives the Painted Desert its name."
Explore Canyon de Chelly: This site is accessible from the Chambers area. "We got a site with electric for a few days while checking out the Petrified Forest and decided to stay an extra day to check out the Canyon de Chilly..don't miss that one!" recommends a guest at LunaGaia Nomadic Village, which is about 45 minutes from Chambers.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution makes this region ideal for night sky viewing. "We positioned our trailer to block the light from the Crystal shop so we could photograph the milky way," shares a camper who stayed at Crystal Forest Campground. Another visitor at Petrified Forest comments, "You can see the Milky Way (it was my first time seeing it)."
What campers like
Quiet locations: Despite proximity to I-40, many campsites offer peaceful surroundings. "Short dirt road travel off I-40. Gorgeous place, beautiful landscape (awesome sunsets and sunrises), very welcoming hosts and a real sense of community," notes a camper from LunaGaia Nomadic Village.
Budget-friendly options: Several sites offer affordable camping near Chambers. At OK RV Park in Holbrook, one visitor appreciated the value: "This is a simple RV park and not a resort. Sites are pull through. Cable TV, WiFi plus full hook ups. Parking area is totally hard packed gravel." Rates range from $34-44 with various discount options.
Proximity to attractions: Most campgrounds provide convenient access to regional points of interest. "Host was responsive and provided great directions, location was close to the Petrified Forest and 100% boondocking. Plenty of space to spread out and relax, awesome sunset and sunrise views," writes a reviewer about Petrified Forest Campground.
What you should know
Limited water sources: Most dispersed camping areas have no water access. "Just fill your water tank before you get here, no water on site for RVs," advises a camper at LunaGaia Nomadic Village. Prepare to bring all needed water when camping outside established rv parks.
Road conditions vary: Access roads to many campsites can be challenging. "The unpaved dirt roads leading to the campsite stretched for about 4 miles, which came as a surprise," notes one camper about Petrified Forest Campground. Another adds, "Roads are easy to get over with any awd car with decent clearance."
Weather preparedness: Wind can be particularly severe in this region. A visitor to Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area shares: "What we were not expecting was the WIND!! Lots and lots of wind!! In this area there are not large areas of coverage from the elements. Very minimal in fact."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible playgrounds: Some rv parks near Chambers include kid-friendly amenities. "Has 2 dog runs, small park with swings and stuff for the kids," mentions a camper at Sun Valley RV Park. This feature provides entertainment options after a day of sightseeing.
Food delivery options: In some locations, food delivery is available. "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids," notes a visitor to USA RV Park in Gallup, which is about 60 miles east of Chambers.
Educational opportunities: The region offers unique learning experiences for children. At Crystal Forest Campground near the Petrified Forest, "The Crystal shop opens at 8am. Bought a few affordable crystals, friendly and knowledgeable staff. A few photo opps with old cars weighed down with petrified rocks."
Tips from RVers
Alternative camping arrangements: For unique RV spots, consider gift shops near attractions. "Only about 2 miles from the entrance to the national park. We camped on the north side of the road. I believe there are four campsites that are pull through and maybe five or six campsites back in. $25 per night for electric," reports a camper at Crystal Forest Campground.
Electrical service details: RVers should note amperage limitations at some parks. "Quiet at night, electric only for $25 a night," notes one visitor about Crystal Forest Campground, while another adds, "Only 30 amp."
Site layout considerations: Many rv parks Chambers, Arizona and surrounding areas have specific site configurations. "Long full service sites, multiple sewer connectors along the sites, picnic table, playground, laundry, clubhouse, nice showers," describes a camper about OK RV Park in Holbrook. Another mentions, "They alternate directions so it feels like the next vehicle is further away."
