Dispersed camping options near Fredonia, Arizona primarily consist of undeveloped sites on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Kaibab National Forest. Most sites sit at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures during summer months compared to lower desert areas. Winter access can be limited by snow and mud, with most remote sites lacking cell service despite exceptions noted at certain locations.
What to do
Visit dinosaur tracks: The Moccasin Mountain Dinosaur Tracksite offers a unique prehistoric attraction near camping areas. Located on BLM land, this site contains well-preserved dinosaur tracks from the early Jurassic period.
Hike slot canyons: At Buckskin Gulch Dispersed, campers can access one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the Southwest. "It is a 21 mile segment that has awesome, narrow slot canyons. The canyons are a bit far, so we had to head back and get our pups some water. Apparently the wash has water through it most often, so bring water shoes for this one," notes Sarah W.
Stargaze: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. The dark skies in this region reveal astronomical features rarely visible near urban areas. Nina P. reported from Zion Glamping Adventures, "The view here at night is AMAZING. There's barely any light pollution here so it was a stargazers dream."
What campers like
Easy road access: Many dispersed sites near Fredonia offer straightforward access from main roads. Greg L. reports that FS Road #257 "is a good graded gravel road but does have some clay so beware after wet conditions."
Stream sounds: Some campers appreciate the natural white noise at Kolob Terrace Road where Anastasia T. noted, "It was a nice spread out camp area. There were a couple of other vans there but the trees and campgrounds offered a fair bit of privacy." Another camper mentioned, "There is a little river that is so nice to go to sleep to and it is very quiet."
Red rock landscapes: The vivid geology provides distinctive camping backdrops. At Buckskin Gulch, Brent E. described finding a "beautiful spot tucked in along the red rock walls. Quite quiet...not much traffic through the night or day."
What you should know
Weather considerations: The clay soil at many dispersed sites becomes problematic after rainfall. Regarding FS Road #257 Dispersed Camping, Kristen S. advised, "Visited at the end of March, so def cold but not a negative. Just be prepared."
Permits required: Some backcountry camping areas require permits for overnight stays. A reviewer noted for Buckskin Gulch, "permit required for overnight stay. can be acquired at blm office in Kanab."
Limited turnaround space: Many forest roads have constraints for large vehicles. One camper at Seaman Wash Dispersed cautioned, "DO NOT attempt to pull a trailer in here unless you feel like driving all the way to the end to turn around, or want to back allllll the way out."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: No drinking water is available at most dispersed sites near Fredonia. For tent camping at Buckskin Gulch, bring sufficient water for hiking and camping needs, especially during warmer months.
Consider designated campgrounds: For families seeking more amenities, Zion View Camping offers a middle ground between primitive and full-service camping with drinking water, toilets, and trash service while maintaining a natural setting.
Plan for weather fluctuations: Temperature variations between day and night can be significant. Evenings cool dramatically even during summer months due to the elevation and desert climate.
Tips from RVers
Scout first: When tent camping near Fredonia with any vehicle, consider scouting roads before committing. One camper at Seaman Wash Dispersed explained, "I turned down the road to scout out a place for us to park our 5th wheel for the night. Eventually the small camping spots disappeared and all there was were walls of dirt on either side with nowhere to turn around in site."
Watch for soft sand: Many accessible dispersed camping areas have sections of soft sand that can trap vehicles. At Kolob Terrace Road, campers with larger vehicles should carefully assess ground conditions before setting up camp.
Satellite connectivity: For those needing to work remotely while tent camping near Fredonia, be aware that satellite internet service may be inconsistent in forested areas. Kristen S. noted at FS Road #257, "I chose this spot for the ease of jumping back on 89A, and the clear open space in the first spot for my Starlink. However, it reboots often while I am working."
