Dispersed camping areas near Forest Lakes, Arizona range in elevation from 6,000 to 7,500 feet within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. Situated along the Mogollon Rim, this region experiences dramatic temperature shifts with summer daytime highs in the mid-70s dropping to the 40s overnight. Free camping options typically feature established fire rings with variable road conditions depending on recent weather and maintenance schedules.
What to do
Fishing at Bear Canyon Lake: The lake offers fishing opportunities with reasonable catch rates and relatively light crowds compared to other area lakes. "The lake itself is beautiful and less crowded than Woods Canyon Lake," notes a camper at Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area. Access requires some effort as "the hike down to the lake from the west side was pretty tough. I think we walked about half to 3/4s of a mile down and around the lake to find a spot to fish."
Hiking along forest trails: Multiple unmarked trails connect the dispersed sites to viewpoints and natural features. A visitor to FR738 Dispersed Camping reports: "Along with this site, there are many dispersed camping sites right on the side of the rim with great views that you can see miles out." Another camper notes: "No official hiking trails nearby" but many informal paths exist.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts deer, wild horses, and numerous bird species visible from campsites. "We saw wild horses and tons of space for biking. We loved it," writes a camper at Old Rim Road Forest Road 171.
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Sites typically offer substantial distance between neighbors. At Rim Road, a reviewer notes: "There are a lot of dispersed camping sites here. Most of them are very easy to get to even with big rv's or trailers." Another camper explains: "Forest Road 300, or Rim Road, has beautiful views and so many places to camp! We go several times a year and never camp in the same place twice!"
Cool summer temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from valley heat. "I wanted to get out of the southern Arizona heat. This place did just that," writes a visitor to Old Rim Road Dispersed Site. "Perfect summer weather" makes these sites popular during hot months.
Rim views: Many sites offer dramatic views over the Mogollon Rim's edge. A camper at Forest Road 195 notes the area is "pretty secluded and pretty remote. Sites are of different sizes, anyone can camp, big trailers etc. very quiet except for nature and birds." Another describes: "Numbered free camp sites. First come first served. Beautiful cool high country with many overlooks over the rim."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Main forest roads are generally navigable while side roads may require higher clearance. "The main road is in fairly good shape" but "if you are checking the weather, it's closer to Heber than Payson. Payson low tonight expected to be 37, but Heber is expected to get to 24."
Limited cell coverage: Service diminishes quickly as you travel deeper into the forest. At Forest Road 195 Campground, a visitor warns: "Cell services leaving Payson for ATT/Cricket was NONEXISTENT for most of the way, especially up in the dispersed areas. Use offline maps, don't rely on internet access if you have Cricket!"
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during summer. "Was a nice area and it filled up quick! By Friday night, you couldn't find much open. Got there around lunch and we still had plenty of room."
Noise levels: Some areas experience ATV traffic and occasional shooting. "Be prepared for loud music and loud ATV's" and "People would also shoot their guns so be careful for stray ricochets."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Larson Ridge offers accessible sites for first-time dispersed campers. "Larson Ridge is easily becoming one of my new favorite campgrounds. The sites are within a 1/4 mile of the highway (close enough to see the vehicle lights at night) but there is no highway noise."
Safety considerations: Sites near water require extra supervision. "The lake is about a mile away. There is a short but very steep hike, don't plan on carrying too much stuff." Another warns: "I watched three other groups come through and heard at least two people fall sliding on the dirt. Then again we went through with a dog and a toddler and none of us fell."
Campsite selection: Arrive early for the best family-appropriate sites. "We showed late on Friday eve and were still able to get a great spot for tent camping. Pretty quiet and close to town."
Tips from RVers
Access for larger vehicles: Many but not all sites accommodate larger RVs. "Plenty of room for big rigs (40'+). I brought my 37' Motorhome and had no problem finding a big enough site," reports a visitor to Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350.
Road navigation: Take forest roads slowly, especially after recent rain. "We pulled onto Rim Road (FR300) and travelled app. 1 mile to find a quiet and pretty camp spot. We were in a 25' class C motor home and the road was bumpy but passable. It was early spring and some areas were very soft so use caution with a heavy vehicle."
Site availability: Free camping near Forest Lakes involves a trade-off between convenience and solitude. "Lovely area with multiple large campsites along the road. No amenities. Was able to pull our 27ft trailer in. There's a little general store just a few minutes up the highway and a town about 20 minutes away if needed."
