Dispersed camping options in the Coconino National Forest area provide rustic experiences at elevations ranging from 5,000-6,500 feet with significant temperature variations between seasons. Forest Road 253 offers primitive camping sites accessible for most vehicles across a network of unpaved roads. Visitors frequently encounter wildlife including elk herds and occasional cattle grazing throughout the camping areas.
What to do
Hike the Arizona Trail: Several dispersed camping areas near Marshall Lake provide direct access to the Arizona Trail. "Beautiful, pristine primitive free campgrounds. There is no water, power, pavement, or bathrooms anywhere in sight... perfect for star gazing. Pet friendly. Elk are abundant, as well as grazing cows, and the waterfowl is like a symphony of sounds. Even saw a bald eagle!" reports a camper at Marshall Lake.
Visit nearby national monuments: Walnut Canyon dispersed areas place you within easy reach of three national monuments. "This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping... I loved this campsite due to its proximity to the three National Monuments near Flagstaff: Wupatki, Walnut Canyon, and Sunset Crater Volcano. We decided to stop at these monuments on a whim during our National Park tour and they did NOT disappoint!"
Paddle on nearby lakes: While many forest "lakes" are seasonal, Upper Lake Mary is a reliable option for water activities a short drive from many campsites. From FR 240 Dispersed Camping, one camper reports having "a great weekend out with the Wife and fur kids! Not too noisy all the time but definitely had our fair share of UTV/ATV friends going by all weekend. Nice and cool under the trees, able to do some hiking around camp and paddle boarding up at Lake Mary."
What campers like
Privacy in certain areas: Despite popularity, many dispersed sites offer seclusion when you know where to look. At Forest Road 689, a camper notes: "Great and easy place to stay if you are headed to Sedona from the Phoenix area. It wasn't too far off course and we had the whole place to ourselves. We didn't see it hear another car the entire evening and night."
Night sky viewing: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Edge of the World, a camper describes: "Absolutely absurd views and stars. Cannot recommend enough. Bit of a drive but stick on it and see the view. Worth every second."
Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides cooler conditions during hot weather. "We got there around 4 pm on a Saturday and got one of the last spots with a pretty good view. The spots are secluded enough you don't see or notice your neighbors when you farther down the road," reports a visitor at Schnebly Hill Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Weather impacts access significantly. At Pumphouse Wash, a visitor experienced: "Closed, due to snow I guess? Looked like a nice spot." Another camper noted: "The ride in is rocky, I came in very slowly in a Toyota sienna van, just be careful for sharp rocks."
Campsite quality inconsistencies: Trash management can be problematic in popular areas. One camper at Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam observed: "Lots of dispersed sites on this road. Quite a few sites occupied closer to the road's east entrance. The further down the road you drive, the rougher the road is. Stayed overnight in the camping area just beyond the dam. Beautiful forest. No amenities, okay cell service. People could do better picking up after themselves, though--some noticeable trash at the sites."
Campfire restrictions: During dry periods, fire bans are strictly enforced. "We came in during the evening, just right after the sun set and it was a little hard to find a spot. I thought we would be able to set up a fire once we got there but I didn't see online that there was a fire ban so if you come here just make sure you check that before."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites near water features: Areas with seasonal water attract wildlife and provide exploration opportunities. "I enjoy coming here a couple days to get away from hustle & bustle of city life. It's quiet, beautiful and temp is perfect but no amenities, nothing very barren most places have fire pits. There's borough dam but can not camp within 1/4 mile of it."
Pack extra water supplies: The elevation accelerates dehydration. One camper advises: "Bring lots of extra water/drinks, the high elevation is no joke. Visited in early June. Days are great, nights are chilly. Fires allowed in rings, check with local regs to verify it's allowed when you visit."
Allow buffer time for site selection: Popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. "We came in late at night which put us in a spot right off the road. Saw many spots the next day in the light that would've been much less dusty with more shade but we weren't willing to pack up and move."
Tips from RVers
Pre-walk access roads: Many forest roads have challenging sections. A visitor to Forest Service Rd 253 Dispersed advises: "Lots of places to camp all over this road. Most size rigs can find a spot but we did see some people trying to take big rigs too far. If you have something big, stop at the gravel part and find a spot."
Position strategically for dust control: Off-road traffic creates significant dust. "I took the exit off I-17. I went in a little over 1/2 mile, passing many camp spots along the way. In a 24-foot Class C RV, with a car in tow on tow dolly. Bumpy, just take it slow. Lots of day use people in their 'dune buggy's', quads and motorcycles. Between the OHV and some high winds, gets pretty dusty."
Consider cellular needs: Service varies dramatically by location. "This area has been a favorite camping spot since I was a child, and now, pulling my trailer in, it's just as peaceful and relaxing."
