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 (125)

    1. Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area

    52 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

    36 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

    36 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

    21 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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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Flagstaff, AZ

651 Reviews of 125 Flagstaff Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Walnut Canyon USFS Dispersed Camping

    NO DISPERSED CAMPING ALLOWED!!!

    As of May 1, 2023 the Coconino National Forest Service has closed down many dispersed camping areas around the city of Flagstaff. This area is included in that. You can still drive off-road and explore during the day when the Walnut Canyon National Monument is open, but no camping and no camp fires are allowed.

  • Angela G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2021

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great Boondocking/Car Camp Spot

    This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping, but we decided against popping up our camper here and just car camped instead. Not super dispersed, but the access road is accessible to most vehicles. However, some side road pulloffs are definitely better suited for 4WD vehicles. I would suggest walking the route first to make sure your particular vehicle can make it.

    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! I highly recommend visiting all three, and perhaps ending with Walnut Canyon, as it was my favorite. This campground is great for visiting all three, as each monument is only 10-25 minutes away. They are all incredible and very worth the visit if you’re in northern AZ for the staple Grand Canyon.

  • Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2021

    West Clear Creek Dispersed Camping

    Pretty Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping along many off-road trails. Quiet and clean with no amenities. Fire restrictions in the summer. The West Clear Creek trailhead is nearby, so light vehicle trafiic for the trail. Tons of available spaces with privacy. No cell service.

  • Sonja T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Manan Spring on Forest Road 135

    Pretty quiet camping off N Lake Mary Rd

    We tried finding some dispersed camping near Payson though all of the sites we visited were full. We ended up 35 miles south of Flagstaff off FS 135. After having to leave Payson we arrived very late at night. At the base of the campsite there were a lot ofvRVs set up. This was technically the FS 135 dispersed site. However we continued in for about 3 miles to the Mahan Ranch site. We got lucky and found an empty site off FS135 and FS135B. We spent a ptetty quiet week there at the base of Hutch Mountain. The next morning we found quite a bit of trash around the site. We cleaned it up and packed everything out when we headed out. There are quite a few cows in the area so watch where you step. OHV traffic wasn't too bad, much quieter than our stay at Badger Flats in Colorado. Folks were friendly and passing on the narrow roads was easy. The entire campsite was pretty quiet, a couple of generators off in the distance. Pretty much the loudest part of the stay was tge cows, lol.

    Where we setup there were maybe 5 sites along the 3 mile stretch of 135B. Plenty of RV sites closer to the highway. After our week there may have been about 50 or more larger RVs setup in the msin area near Lake Mary Rd. Sedona, Flagstaff, Cottonwood were the major cities webused for water and food. Each within an hour drive. The FS roads were fairly smooth, our Hyundai Santa Cruz had no issues. But DO watch out for small stumos near the edge of the roads and for Deer and Elk. For us cell service with ATT/Cricket was NONEXISTENT. We had to get up to about mile marker 315 on Lake Mary Rd or into Mormon Lake. Service heading into Sedona and Cottonwood along Stoneman Lake Road was unavailable until we got within a mile of I17. Of course cell services was decent in Flagstaff, Sedona and Cottonwood. Spotty coming diwn 89A from Flagstaff into Oak Creek.

    I gee up in the area in the 80s, much has changed, Sedona is quite a bit larger with a ton of traffuc, prices are also very high. Lunch at McDonald's ran us $35 for two people and shopping at Bashas in Sedona put a big dent in our food Budget. Water in Flag, Sedona Nd Cottonwood was around 50 cents a gallon at automated machines. We found the General Store in Mormon Lake to be the best place to refill at 20 cents a gallon. They even have laundry and bathrooms at the Lodge. No trash servuce though, they ask you to oack it out, the dumpster was reserved for the paid sites at the lodge. Though the Lake Mary recreation area about 5 miles north had a large dumpster to use.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great experience for dispersed camping with family

    10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument off a side dirt road. We are a family of 4 in a 26’ RV and were able to find a beautiful, private, remote spot on a Sunday with gorgeous trails to explore. Would absolutely come back and recommend!

  • Chris W.
    Aug. 1, 2023

    Dispersed Camping around Sunset Crater Volcano NM

    Beautiful area outside of Sunset Crater

    This is a really nice area on forest road 545 comma just outside of sunset crater national monument. when you turn to go to Sunset Crater as soon as you go over the cattle guard take a left and follow that road around lots of camping spots, the road isn't really bad there's a few washed out areas but my van was able to manage it

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping

    XXL Rig Friendly!

    We have a 30ft Skoolie (2002 bluebird) and tow a 17ft cargo trailer conversion and there were countless spots for us to fit in without having to drop the trailer! This area is VAST and breathtaking. 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.

    The only thing I would say to be mindful of and I say this with regard to pets is that there were jeeps, trucks and 4x4s driving past occasionally during the night and they FLY down the gravel roads. We were not at all bothered by it - they’re out there having a good time enjoying the mountains and forests in their way just like we are but just keep your doggos and cattos close 🐾

    The roads are gravel and they are pitchy and rutted in areas. Some roads have a several inches droop off too but our bus did great through it. If you pay attention and arrive in daylight you’re absolutely fine. There are VERY few spots to turn around and to take the loop is several miles of gravel road out of the way so just look at the satellite on maps, take it slow and enjoy the view. We only had the time to stay one night but we will absolutely be back. CAUTION: elevation is 7500ft. If you are prone to altitude sickness be wary. You ascend from about 5000 to 7000 pretty quickly. Other than that watch the weather. The roads flood and wash out with rain from the mountains so be alert and plan accordingly and you will be fine. ENJOY and remember to LEAVE NO TRACE 🫶🏻

  • Mallory D.
    May. 25, 2018

    Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping

    Rough terrain, busy

    The road into the campgrounds are very rough, small cars are not advised. There are only 10-14 sites available (first come first serve) depending what time of the year you arrive, since a pair of endangered owls nest between some of the campsites for a few months and will have the sites closed down. Be cautious of the stage of fire alert going on, when I went no campfires were allowed so I used a propane stove.

    The surrounding areas are beautiful and a family of deer made appearances regularly. Also its free, so it was nice to avoid a hotel cost for the night.

    The cons are that its hard to reach camp due to rough roads, very few campsites, and it seems the local teenagers really enjoy partying and screaming at all hours of the night. I assume you're better off on a weekday when all the kids are still in school.

  • Toree M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 2, 2023

    FR689 Dispersed Camping

    Quiet, scenic, easy to locate

    We are in a 34 footer! The drive, while do-able, is not necessarily preferable in something 20+ feet long. Narrow dirt road, closer to one lane than two, and no guard rails. We just took it slow and that worked fine for us! It has been pretty quiet (even compared to other BLM sites we’ve visited this month). It’s also January which absolutely plays into the noise/traffic level! It’s chilly but nothing a sleeping bag can’t help! Really pretty walks, and hikes, and lots of room for our pups and kiddos to play. Super easy to navigate, which is always a big plus! We’re camping almost exactly where the pin is dropped. We’ve been able to visit Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and just come back here at night to camp so location isn’t bad either.


Guide to Flagstaff

Dispersed camping near Flagstaff requires vehicles with high ground clearance for many sites, especially after the summer monsoon season when dirt roads become rutted. The area sits at approximately 7,000 feet elevation, which means temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months. Cell service varies greatly between locations, with some sites offering good connectivity while others remain completely off-grid.

What to do

Hiking to rim views: At Edge of the World (East Pocket), campers enjoy dramatic vistas overlooking Sedona. "Absolutely absurd views and stars. Cannot recommend enough. Bit of a drive but stick on it and see the view. Worth every second," notes Lewis M. The site requires about an hour on dirt roads to reach from Highway 17.

Mountain biking from camp: Dispersed sites near Freidlein Prairie offer direct trail access. "We loved this spot since there was amazing access to trails right from our campsite, including the Arizona Trail. So if you're a hiker, mt biker, or runner this is an excellent spot!" says Jeanie P. Most sites are well-spaced but closer to roads.

ATV adventures: Cinder Hills Off Highway Vehicle Area provides dedicated space for motorized recreation. "The black rock field is cool. There are tons of banked turns and stuff in the trees and in the field, perfect for tearing it up," reports Trevor P. The area features hundreds of acres for riding, though expect weekend crowds.

What campers like

Spacious campsites: At Coconino National Forest off Lake Mary Rd, sites offer excellent privacy. "The sites are a good distance from each other. Very quiet, picked up some trash but not bad. Under tall pines so solar is slow," notes Laurie F. Campers appreciate the ability to find spots away from others while staying within 15 minutes of town.

Wildlife viewing: Dispersed camping areas around Marshall Lake attract diverse animals. "Elk are abundant, as well as grazing cows, and the waterfowl is like a symphony of sounds. Even saw a bald eagle!" shares Mocha M. The high elevation wetland environment creates unique habitat different from typical forest camping.

Affordability factor: Free dispersed camping in Flagstaff National Forest provides budget-friendly alternatives to paid campgrounds. "One of the most scenic dispersed campsites we have found," comments Suzy J. about FR 222 Dispersed. Most areas permit stays up to 14 days before requiring relocation.

What you should know

Road conditions vary: Many dispersed sites have challenging access routes. At Pumphouse Wash, "The ride in is rocky, I came in very slowly in a Toyota sienna van, just be careful for sharp rocks," advises Norman H. Roads deteriorate quickly after rain, and some areas close entirely during winter months.

Seasonal closures: Several popular areas restrict access seasonally. "Attempted to camp on 3/10 but road to campsites was closed," reports Michael B. about Pumphouse Wash. Always check current conditions with the Forest Service before traveling.

Human waste issues: Improper sanitation creates problems at heavily-used sites. "You can't walk away from your site without seeing lots of trees surrounded by toilet paper. Freekin disgusting," notes Michael C. Bring a portable toilet system or waste bags and know proper disposal methods.

Tips for camping with families

Choose sites with natural barriers: Select locations where children can explore safely. "The camping is in designated spots only which are really spaced out. We loved this spot since there was amazing access to trails right from our campsite," says Jeanie P. about Freidlein Prairie. The designated nature of these sites creates defined boundaries for kids.

Pack for temperature swings: Flagstaff's high elevation means cold nights even in summer. "Weather was in the 70s in the day and the day we got here it dropped to 28 and snowed," shares Norman H. about camping in early March. Bring extra layers and cold-weather sleeping gear year-round.

Avoid party hotspots: Some dispersed camping areas attract louder groups. "About the same as camping on the west side of the hwy. There's a ton of traffic, no respect from other campers who blast music, trash the forest, fire off guns at all hours," warns Alex S. Weekdays generally offer quieter experiences than weekends.

Tips from RVers

Limited turn-around space: Many forest roads lack adequate space for larger rigs to maneuver. "There are very few spots to turn around and to take the loop is several miles of gravel road out of the way," cautions Jacqueline G. about Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping. Scout ahead without your trailer when possible.

Pre-check sites for leveling: Many dispersed areas have uneven terrain. "It took a few times to find a place level enough to setup our pop-up trailer but with the help of a few pieces of 2x4 we were able to make it work," reports Krista Z. Bring leveling blocks and extra stabilization equipment.

Dust management: Forest roads generate significant dust, especially in dry conditions. "There is dust, lots of it, right off the road in the turnoffs. But we found it quite simple to drive in a little further where the ground is a carpet of pine needles, soft, fragrant, and no dust at all," recommends Antony V. Position your rig away from main travel routes.

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).

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.