Best Dispersed Camping near Flagstaff, AZ

Four-wheel drive helps when accessing Flagstaff's more remote camping spots after rain. The Coconino National Forest surrounds the area with plenty of dispersed sites, but you need to camp at least 200 feet from water sources and roads. Most dirt roads become challenging after storms, so vehicles with good clearance work best for reaching the more isolated spots. You can stay up to 14 days at any location, then need to move on. Fire restrictions change frequently based on conditions, so check with the ranger district office before heading out. Bring all your water since natural sources aren't reliable and there are no facilities whatsoever. The quiet and space between sites makes up for the lack of amenities. Keep food secured in your vehicle to prevent bears and other wildlife from visiting your camp. Day trips to the Grand Canyon or the Sonoran Desert are possible from most camping areas. Many locals call it boondocking instead of dispersed camping, but it means the same thing - camping with no hookups or services. Pack out everything you bring in to keep these areas clean. The Colorado River isn't far if you want to include some water activities. Weather changes quickly here, so pack for both hot days and cold nights. With some preparation, camping around Flagstaff gives you solitude that's hard to find at developed campgrounds.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Flagstaff, Arizona (122)

    1. Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area

    51 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    11 miles
    Website

    "Due to the ease of access from Sedona and Flagstaff this campground sees a lot of action."

    "Great spots in between flagstaff and Sedona. Literally 10 minutes from flagstaff. Campfire pits. If you’re coming from flagstaff, there’s a left turn lane to take you into the area"

    2. Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    35 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    6 miles
    Website

    "This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping, but we decided against popping up our camper here and just car camped instead."

    "10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument off a side dirt road."

    3. FR 222 Dispersed

    35 Reviews
    Bellemont, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Didn’t see any wildlife but I’m sure they are around! No amenities so come prepared for dry camping. Flagstaff is about 15 min away and had good AT&T service and was able to work remotely."

    "Nice flat areas for camping. Very upsetting to see most of the sites are littered with trash."

    4. Edge of the World (East Pocket)

    53 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Finding the area was slightly a challenge but the drive was more than worth it. We went with huge puddles and mud so I recommend a high clearance 4x4 vehicle for the drive up. Views were stunning"

    "High clearance vehicle recommended but I don’t feel it’s required. Saw some rogues and rav4s make it."

    5. Cinder Hills Off Highway Vehicle Area

    20 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Good for RV, Tents, car camping etc. There are some OHV trails in the area but by dark it was quiet so there was no issues for us."

    "Stayed in a flat spot away from most people, with unreal views of Humphrey’s peak. The ground here is very soft and loose rock, and we are pulling a trailer."

    6. Marshall Lake

    12 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "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."

    "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."

    7. Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Bellemont, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "The sites are a very good distance apart so that you don't even see or hear your neighboring sites."

    "It was easy to navigate there and find the spot, but the road was a bit bumpy."

    8. Fort Valley Dispersed Camping

    10 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 526-0866

    "Very close to flagstaff. The campground was nice and spaced out. A bit loud with cars driving by."

    "Some of the spots were taken over by garbage and stuff left behind from other travelers, but the further you go back the less you see it!"

    9. Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    13 miles
    Website

    $18 / night

    "There were a lot of campers when you first enter, but if you drive around you will find something perfect for your setup no doubt."

    "This was the first place I’d ever dispersed camped and I was so comfortable! I find myself back here often even if just for a picnic.

    The spots are a good size and nicely spaced."

    10. Coconino National Forest off Lake Mary Rd

    7 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    4 miles

    "GREAT spot for dry camping. Can literally camp with no one else in sight. Trees but open spots for campers with solar/starlink. See maybe 1-2 cars come in and out a day."

    "Lots of space and private ..but I can see how it can get full on a weekend. 15 min from Flagstaff. Pass the coordinates and you ll see a sign. The coordinates are not precise."

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Showing results 1-10 of 122 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Flagstaff, AZ

640 Reviews of 122 Flagstaff Campgrounds



Guide to Flagstaff

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Flagstaff, Arizona, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering stunning views and unique experiences, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Scenic Views at Edge of the World (East Pocket) for dispersed campers

  • This spot is renowned for its breathtaking views overlooking Sedona, making it a must-visit for photographers and nature lovers alike.
  • The area is easily accessible, with a drive that takes about an hour, allowing for a quick getaway from Flagstaff.
  • Be prepared to bring your own supplies, as there are no amenities available, but the stunning scenery makes it worth the effort.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Flagstaff, Arizona

  • Always check the current status of locations like Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025 before heading out, as some areas may be temporarily closed due to fire restrictions.
  • For those traveling with pets, FR 222 Dispersed is pet-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your furry companions.
  • Be mindful of the weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season, as some roads may become impassable; always check local forecasts before your trip.

Activities while free camping near Flagstaff

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best areas for dispersed camping near Flagstaff, Arizona?

The Flagstaff area offers several excellent dispersed camping locations. Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping stands out with its vast, breathtaking landscape suitable for large rigs including 30ft Skoolies with trailers. For those seeking quieter options, FR 222 Dispersed provides extremely peaceful camping about 15 minutes from Flagstaff with good AT&T service. Note that as of May 2023, the Coconino National Forest Service has closed many dispersed camping areas around Flagstaff, including some popular spots. Other noteworthy areas include forest roads around Sunset Crater National Monument and Freidlein Prairie, though road conditions can be challenging for smaller vehicles. Always check current closure information and fire restrictions before heading out.

Where can I find free camping options in the Flagstaff area?

Numerous free camping options exist around Flagstaff. West Clear Creek Dispersed Camping offers standard dispersed camping along off-road trails with quiet, clean sites and privacy, though without amenities. It's located near the West Clear Creek trailhead. Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam provides numerous spots with existing fire rings (note that fire restrictions may apply seasonally). For easier access, Pumphouse Wash and Fort Valley areas offer free camping closer to town. When searching for free sites, look for forest roads with pullouts, particularly in the Coconino National Forest. Be aware that some previously popular free camping areas near Flagstaff have been closed, so verify current status before traveling.

What are the rules for BLM camping near Flagstaff?

BLM and Forest Service dispersed camping near Flagstaff follows the 14-day stay limit within any 30-day period. Campers must practice Leave No Trace principles and camp at least 200 feet from water sources. FR689 Dispersed Camping exemplifies BLM areas suitable for larger rigs, though access requires navigating narrow dirt roads. Fire restrictions are common, especially in summer months, so portable propane fire pits are recommended. Many areas now prohibit driving off designated roads to prevent resource damage, meaning you must camp in established pullouts. Edge of the World (East Pocket) represents another BLM option. Always pack out all trash, properly dispose of human waste, and respect wildlife closures (such as for endangered owl nesting areas that periodically close some sites).

Is there a map available for dispersed camping sites around Flagstaff?

Yes, maps for dispersed camping around Flagstaff are available through multiple sources. The Coconino National Forest website provides official Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs) showing designated roads where dispersed camping is permitted. These maps are available as free downloads or at ranger stations. The Avenza Maps app offers these forest maps for offline use with GPS functionality. For specific areas like Dispersed Camping around Sunset Crater Volcano NM, Forest Road 545 is marked with camping spots. Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping is also well-documented. Additionally, the Dyrt Pro subscription provides downloadable maps with marked dispersed camping areas, allowing you to see where others have camped successfully.

What is boondocking like near Flagstaff and where are the best spots?

Boondocking near Flagstaff offers serene forest settings with pine tree coverage and often spectacular views. Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping (note: currently closed until 2025) was perfect for boondocking with beautiful, private spots suitable for RVs up to 26 feet, located just 10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument. Sunset Crater provides convenient dispersed camping close to Sunset Crater National Monument, ideal for campervans and overnight stays. Most boondocking sites around Flagstaff feature no amenities—pack in all water, practice proper waste disposal, and prepare for variable weather conditions. Cell service varies by location; FR 222 reports good AT&T coverage, while other areas have none. The Cinder Hills area accommodates larger rigs on relatively accessible roads. For successful boondocking, bring everything you need and arrive with plenty of daylight to find a suitable spot.