Gray Mountain sits at approximately 5,400 feet elevation in northern Arizona, serving as a junction point between the Painted Desert and the Kaibab National Forest. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing, while summer brings highs in the 90s with afternoon thunderstorms common from July through September. The camping season peaks from May through October when road conditions are most reliable across the dispersed areas.
What to do
Hiking from camp to canyon views: At Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682, campers can access trails with panoramic desert vistas. "I drove in deeper than the spot listed and found a little place tucked into trees. Rutted dirt road, but manageable with most cars. Saw a few off-road vehicles in a week, but mostly very quiet and beautiful," notes Michael S. about his experience finding a secluded spot.
Mountain biking forest roads: The network of forest service roads around Gray Mountain provides extensive biking opportunities. "There are a number of trails/forest roads in the immediate area to hike, some with nice views of the valley and surrounding mountains," reports Ray & Terri F. about their stay at Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping.
Stargazing without light pollution: Dark skies make this area ideal for astronomy. A camper at Cinder Hills Off Highway Vehicle Area mentioned, "It's a great free place to camp. It was very windy while we stayed though. Would definitely return!" The volcanic cinder fields create an otherworldly landscape for nighttime photography.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious layout at Forest Service Road 328 Dispersed. "Great spot, easy access and 6 miles from the South entrance to the Canyon. Note: The directions land you in an area with lots of no camping signs. Just keep driving and the spots open up," advises Mike M.
Wildlife encounters: Early morning and evening hours bring opportunities to spot elk, deer and other wildlife. One camper at Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682 noted, "When you first pull into the road there's an open lot but if you drive back there are individual marked campsites. They are very private and quiet, some even had spots for campfires."
Established fire rings: Many dispersed sites have fire rings from previous campers. At Desert View Campground, which operates seasonally, "Host is friendly. $6.00 a night with Senior pass. No soap so take some with you. Somewhat quiet but people (including us) wake up early to see the sunrise along the rim within walking distance," according to Sheila W.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Reception changes dramatically with elevation and terrain. "AT&T coverage was fair, with 3 Bars of LTE service and speeds up to 8 MB/s. Although there are trees, our immediate site was pretty open, so we were able to receive all 3 SW Dish satellites and Starlink had up to 11 MB/s," reports Ray & Terri F. about their experience at Lockett Meadow.
Road conditions after rain: Washouts and mud can make some sites inaccessible. A visitor to Mather Campground advised, "We camped there the second week of March during spring break. It was perfect! Cold at night but the facilities were very nice and accommodating. Water, restrooms and showers were all provided."
Temperature swings: The high desert environment creates significant temperature variations between day and night. "It was cold even in May, so come prepared. One of my favorite campsites," mentions Donna H. about her stay at Bonito Campground near Sunset Crater.
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "Desert View is a hidden gem at the south rim of the Grand Canyon. Although many people tend to lean toward the more common parts of the south rim, this is a place that will give you more of a nature feel to the camping experience!" notes Noah Johnathon M.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access points: Choose sites with minimal hiking required for younger children. Forest Service Road 328 offers accessible options: "Great spots. Long road with lots of pull offs. I doubt you would have any issues ever finding a spot here no matter how busy it gets. Closest free camping to the entrance of the grand canyon," according to Cole P.
Educational opportunities: The volcanic features provide learning experiences. "In addition to being able to see this beautiful sunset cone, there are underground lava flows everywhere in this area. We were able to chat with a ranger and explore one (wear layers, it is COLD in them)," shares Hayley K. about Bonito Campground.
Safety concerns: Monitor children around uneven terrain and potential wildlife. "We had a huge bull elk with his cows walk right past our camp. This is a great spot that we will camp at again in the future," reports Hugh M. about Forest Service Road 328.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Many forest roads have tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs. One RVer cautioned about Desert View Campground: "The max length of rv that can fit in the pull thru sites is 30. My trailer is 20 plus the truck. It hardly fit. Beautiful for tent camping and van sites. Non-electric and it got hot during the day."
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven ground at dispersed sites. "We have a 36' Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and parked and dropped at the Tee of the entrance road and Schultz Pass Road, then went to scout for a site that would accommodate us," advises Ray & Terri F. about their approach to finding suitable spots at Lockett Meadow.
Limited hookups: Most of the best places to camp near Gray Mountain lack facilities. At Cinder Hills OHV Area, one RVer noted, "There are tons of sites, and if it's crowded you might be camped pretty close together. Remember that wind and dust go together, and park accordingly. The dark-gray areas are volcanic ash and produce less dust."
