Tent campsites near Chambers, Arizona consist primarily of backcountry options with limited established facilities. The region sits at approximately 5,200 feet elevation in high desert terrain characterized by sandstone formations and sparse vegetation. Temperature fluctuations can be extreme, with summer daytime highs regularly exceeding 90°F while dropping below 50°F at night.
What to do
Explore prehistoric sites: The backcountry areas contain archaeological remains not visible from main roads. At Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area, campers can visit "Puebloan Civilization sites, and one of the largest deposits of Petrified wood on earth" according to Jeremy A.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings offer the best opportunities for spotting native species. One visitor at Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area noted seeing "a very wary herd of pronghorn antelope" while backcountry camping.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes astronomical observation exceptional. Mara F. reports "You can see the Milky Way (it was my first time seeing it)" when camping in the backcountry areas.
What campers like
Complete solitude: The remote nature provides rare isolation from other visitors. Kate S. describes Petrified Forest National Park dispersed camping as "Beautiful views, an easy hike out, and no one else around."
Geological features: The varied terrain offers unique landscapes not found elsewhere. Michael C. notes, "Some areas are very austere, however the OTHER areas more than make up for it. The Petrified Forest is NOT a bunch of rocks laying around... but awe inspiring views and colors that will blow you away."
Easy permit process: Obtaining backcountry permits involves minimal bureaucracy. Shavit L. confirms permits at Petrified Forest are "free and easy to obtain. Ask for a wilderness hiking booklet as well, it's very well made and can help orient yourself in the vast wilderness."
What you should know
Wind exposure: The open terrain provides minimal natural windbreaks for tent camping. Crystal C. warns about camping at BEKI'S Kick Azz Campgrounds: "What we were not expecting was the WIND!! Lots and lots of wind!! In this area there are not large ares of coverage from the elements."
Water requirements: No natural water sources exist in the backcountry areas. Mara F. points out that "The only downside is you have to pack in all your water with you, making a multi-day trip a little harder."
Terrain challenges: The landscape requires careful navigation and site selection. When entering the Painted Desert, one camper describes the experience as walking into "a magical lunar landscape of red dirt and petrified pieces of tree."
Tips for camping with families
Timing considerations: Plan hikes carefully based on season and temperature. One visitor recommends: "About 1.5 hours before sun set, we backpacked into the Painted Desert from the Inn visitors center where there is water and toilets available."
Educational opportunities: The area provides hands-on geology and history lessons. Antelope Lake Campground is near locations where children can safely explore rock formations and learn about regional ecology.
Preparation essentials: The remote nature requires thorough planning for families. Crystal C. advises: "Bring a headlamp because it is a true dark sky when you are camping here, you can see nothing at night!!"
Tips from RVers
Alternate accommodations: Most designated camping areas cannot accommodate large vehicles. Hunters Point Campground provides options for smaller recreational vehicles in a region otherwise limited to tent camping.
Day use alternatives: Some RVers opt for day visits rather than overnight stays. Jeff N. notes: "You can day use the park, and mingle with all the other day users" while exploring the sights.
Vehicle security: When parking for backcountry access, take precautions. One camper recommends checking trail conditions at visitor centers before determining whether your vehicle is suitable for accessing more remote trailheads.
