Dispersed camping sites around Fredonia, Arizona, offer rugged terrain at elevations ranging from 4,600 to 5,300 feet. Temperatures typically reach the 90s during summer days but cool significantly to the 50s at night, making adequate insulation essential year-round. Many camping areas feature juniper and pinyon pine vegetation interspersed among red rock formations.
What to do
Explore slot canyons: Visit Peekaboo Slot Canyon located approximately 10 miles from Mt Carmel Old 89 Dispersed Camping. "Just minutes from Belly of the Dragon and 10 minutes from parking lot turn off to Peekaboo Slot," notes a camper who stayed at this site.
Stargaze after sunset: Camp areas like Zion Scenic Byway Dispersed - BLM offer exceptional dark sky viewing. "Saw a comet with no assistance! Random and strong wind storm blew in at 3 AM, put all things away at night due to strong gusts," reports one camper about the nighttime conditions.
Listen for wildlife: Coyotes are active in these desert areas. As one camper at Meadows notes, "You will hear the coyotes raising hell at night but that's part of the charm isn't it?"
Visit nearby state parks: From Hancock Road Dispersed Camping, you can reach Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park within a short drive. "We drove down the road to the Pink Coral Sand Dunes State Park (about 7 miles) and we noted the sand was the same color as where we were camped."
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Many dispersed areas offer hilltop camping options. At Old Highway 89 Dispersed BLM Site, "The section of the dispersed camping on the old highway road I chose was on a hilltop, so even though there wasn't much shade, the breezes were great and the views were even better."
Natural overhangs: Some sites feature unique geological formations. At Hog Canyon, "Stayed at the site with the overhanging cave which is an awesome group campsite. In the summer I'd assume it's always taken because of the accessibility."
Diverse camping layouts: The free camping near Fredonia offers varied configurations. "Entry was a little rough, but it's a beautiful spot!" notes one camper about Old Highway 89, while another shares, "There aren't tons of spots(most of it is an open area), but we never had an issue getting one, even during spring break."
Privacy between sites: Despite being free camping spots, many areas near Fredonia provide adequate separation. "We were able to drive our Tundra pulling 19' Scamp trailer but bigger rigs would have trouble because the dirt is very sandy and some places are tight," notes a camper at Kanab Creek / Greenhalgh Trail.
What you should know
Sand conditions vary: Sandy terrain can change rapidly with weather. "We are camping at a state destination camp site. No fee and 14 day limit. Great site but be very careful with the very loose sand at these sites," advises a camper at Hancock Road.
Road access challenges: Getting to some free camping areas around Fredonia requires planning. "You could go three different directions and wasn't exactly sure where the camp sites were at first but we found a nice pull in with a fire ring and there was about 7 people hanging around in rvs."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife includes potentially dangerous species. According to a camper at Meadows - Coral Pink Sand Dunes Dispersed, "Watch your feet for the critters and there are snakes in the tall grass but if you use common sense, the campsite is amazing for families too."
Weather fluctuations: The desert climate brings unpredictable conditions. "This spot is at altitude so the summers are actually quite cool for being in the desert," notes a camper about the temperature variations in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Check road conditions: Some dispersed camping locations have challenging access. "I loved this primitive camp site! No internet, beautiful landscape, some trails to explore, fire rings, and plenty of space! Definitely need 4WD to get through sand."
Pack extra water: No potable water exists at these sites. "This site has no drinking water, toilets or trash service. The tiny town of Mt. Carmel is nearby. Make sure to stop at the Thunderbird Restaurant - home of the 'ho-made' pies."
Prepare for temperature swings: Desert nights get cold even in summer. "This is at altitude so the summers are actually quite cool for being in the desert."
Consider noise factors: Different no-cost camping areas near Fredonia have varying noise levels. "This is the entry point for ATV's to cross the river and ride so you will hear them all day/night. It's a beautiful area and felt safe."
Tips from RVers
High clearance recommendations: Many dispersed sites require careful navigation. "We put it in 4wd but likely not necessary. A bit of trash around from folks not following leave no trace."
Site selection strategy: Look for established sites with fire rings. "We saw a class A parked in one of the spots. We drove to these coordinates but they are to the left which lead to a locked gate."
Level parking considerations: Finding flat spots can be challenging but possible. "About 15 minute drive outside of east entrance to Zion National Park. Accessibility was good (old broken up paved road that turns to gravel so no 4x4 needed)."
Avoid getting stuck: Sand conditions can trap vehicles after rain. "This was our first time to try dispersed camping, after our kids have done it for years. It rained hard while we were in the National Park & our site was muddy when we returned. That is the only downside to this spot."
