Kaibab National Forest offers dispersed camping areas near Gray Mountain, Arizona at an average elevation of 7,000 feet. The forest spans sections of the Colorado Plateau with volcanic features and pine forests. Weather fluctuates dramatically with summer daytime temperatures reaching 80°F while dropping into the 40s at night, creating challenging temperature management for campers and pets.
What to do
Hiking at Sunset Crater: Take short trails through lava flows at Sunset Crater National Monument just 20 minutes from Bonito Campground. "This is a roomy and quiet campground just outside Sunset Crater. Some sites back right up to the Bonito Lava Flow," writes Scott M. about Bonito Campground.
Wildlife watching: Early mornings provide opportunities to spot elk and deer throughout the forested camping areas. "We had a huge bull elk with his cows walk right past our camp," reports Hugh M. about his experience at Forest Service Road 328.
Stargazing: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. "Star watching was excellent, even with some light pollution from nearby Flagstaff," notes Mark M. about Desert View Campground.
Mountain biking: Cinder Hills area offers extensive trails through volcanic terrain and forested sections. "Large well dispersed campground covered in pine trees with no undergrowth. Excellent road biking and off-road biking options," explains John H. about his time near Flagstaff.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed areas provide substantial distance between campers. "Our spot was very isolated had a great sunset and was very quiet," reports Wally B. about his stay at Cinder Hills Off Highway Vehicle Area.
Accessibility to Grand Canyon: Multiple camping options exist within 30 minutes of park entrances. "Been here couple days now. Plenty of room and other campers around. Feel isolated but not totally alone. Fire pits around as well. 10 minutes outside the park," shares Nicole K. about Forest Service Road 328.
Cost savings: Free dispersed camping provides substantial savings compared to established campgrounds. "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," states cole P.
Clean facilities: Established campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and common areas. "Flush toilets are clean and no pit toilets. Very quiet and peaceful just a short drive from Flagstaff," mentions Allison L. about Bonito Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to many dispersed sites requires driving on rutted dirt roads. "Rocks in the roads, hard to be sure if you're in a good spot at night but lots of space and a wonderful night to look at stars and listen to the wind," advises Colin M. about camping at Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights even in summer months. "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," explains Thad M. about Mather Campground.
Limited water sources: Most dispersed camping areas lack drinking water. "Bring your own water," warns Jeff K. about Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping, where water sources aren't available despite the 7,200-foot elevation.
Off-road vehicle noise: Some camping areas permit ATVs and dirt bikes that operate throughout the day. "Great spot and lots of room. But some creeps were racing their ATVs till 2 AM. Not cool," warns MP C. about noise levels at Cinder Hills.
Tips for camping with families
Look for established fire rings: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Gray Mountain have existing fire pits for safer campfires. "We had a nice night there. There are a few spots along the service road. A lot of dust there," notes Leonid R. about his family's experience at Forest Service Road 328.
Choose sites with natural boundaries: Areas with rock formations or trees create natural play spaces and boundaries for children and pets. "We stayed here for 1 night. We made a campfire which was so easy because of the firepits and all the wood. We drove pretty far down so we were all alone," shares Charlotte S. about Kaibab Forest Dispersed FR 682.
Consider established campgrounds: Families with younger children may appreciate facilities at developed sites. "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," advises Sheila W. about Desert View Campground.
Pack for changing weather: Even summer camping requires warm clothing for nights. "It was cold even in May, so come prepared," cautions Donna H. about her family's experience at Bonito Campground.
Tips from RVers
Scout before parking: Check site suitability before attempting to maneuver larger vehicles. "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!" shares Jacqueline G. about Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping.
Measure clearance requirements: Tree limbs and narrow entrances create challenges for larger vehicles. "The spots are small and it would not be suitable for large RVs (signs say 30' max). We have a truck camper and are hauling a trailer and barely fit into the pull through sites," warns Samantha L. about Desert View Campground.
Plan for uneven terrain: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Gray Mountain have natural, unpaved surfaces. "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," cautions Julie G. about space constraints at Desert View.
Consider generator restrictions: Noise limitations affect power availability at most sites. "Generators can be run any time except 10 pm to 6 am & there are always a couple of generators going and spoiling the tranquility," notes Rebecca P. about Bonito Campground's policies.
