Best Dispersed Camping near Coconino National Forest
Schnebly Hill Road offers several free dispersed camping areas near Coconino National Forest, accessible via I-17 with generally well-maintained dirt roads suitable for most vehicles. The Fox Borough Dam area provides numerous sites with existing fire rings amid pine forest at approximately 6,500 feet elevation, offering cooler temperatures and natural shade. Most campsites are within the first few miles of the I-17 exit, with rougher terrain beyond the dam and Schnebly Hill Vista overlook.
Road conditions vary significantly depending on approach direction. One camper noted, "I highly recommend getting to it via route 17 unless you are very comfortable with off-roading. If you come from Sedona this is the route the pink Jeep tours use and there is a ton of traffic!" FR 240 offers additional primitive camping options with sites accommodating both tents and RVs, though some visitors report seasonal road closures. The area experiences moderate ATV and off-road traffic, especially on weekends, and most sites lack amenities—no toilets, water, or trash service. Fire restrictions commonly apply during summer months.
