Dispersed tent camping in Coconino National Forest near Happy Jack, Arizona provides numerous free sites at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. The area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations, with daytime summer highs averaging in the mid-80s but dropping to the 40s at night. Camping conditions vary considerably by season, with some forest roads becoming impassable during winter months or after heavy rains.
What to do
Explore nearby lakes: Long Lake offers pristine waters and multiple camping areas with boat ramps. A camper noted, "Skip the first turn off to the right as that is the very narrow part of the lake and rather ugly. The second turn off has two to four campsites with vault toilets and access to the lake through a boat ramp which allows camping and small trailer access lakeside."
Venture to East Pocket viewpoints: Edge of the World (East Pocket) provides spectacular views overlooking Sedona. One visitor shared, "Though it was a mission to get to the spot, me personally I would say it's worth the effort to get to the spot. The peacefulness, the beautiful scenery it's a spot I definitely will make my way back too."
Experience star-gazing: Molitor Spot Along Rim Road offers exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. A camper remarked, "The stars... I mean, wow! The starry sky at night was one of the best we've see anywhere, just stunning."
What campers like
Spacious solitude: FR 240 Dispersed Camping provides seclusion among pine forests. A tent camper stated, "This was easy to get to, and quick to take a trip into Munds Park or Flagstaff as well. We had a 21 and 31' trailer with us and found a great spot about 6 minutes after hitting the dirt road. It was great scenery with no one else near us."
Temperature relief: The higher elevations around Happy Jack offer cooler summer camping. At Molitor Spot, visitors advised, "Loved this spot! A ton of pull offs to choose from and far enough away from other campers. I had service there with AT&T. It gets cold- low of 30s and windy."
Forest density options: Dispersed camping areas throughout Coconino National Forest offer varying tree coverage. At Dispersed Camping Coconino, a camper described, "The trees are huge and spread out in a beautiful way that gives way to open spaces. I love this place and plan to return. 10/10."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to prime tent camping sites often requires navigating rough terrain. At Long Lake, a visitor warned, "17 miles of dirt road from Highway to the lake and the last 7 are truly a challenge for anything other than a slightly lifted vehicle."
Fire regulations change seasonally: While fires are generally permitted in established rings, restrictions apply. At Long Lake, a camper noted, "Fires are allowed in the fire pits because this is above 6,000 feet but there is no water or trash. Pack it in, pack it out."
Vehicle requirements: Schnebly Hill Road and similar areas have specific access challenges. A visitor cautioned, "The road is totally doable in a minivan or the likes if you have some experience driving on rougher terrain, but only if you are coming in off of hwy 17."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some tent camping areas are more family-friendly. At Molitor Spot, a parent observed, "Felt very safe in the area for our 3 year old boy to explore with us, so if you expect any sheer cliffs or dangerous drop-offs, they aren't really there. There were gradual declines from the top, and they aren't immediately near where you'd park."
Prepare for wildlife encounters: The forests around Happy Jack host diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and occasionally bears. Secure food properly and maintain distance from all animals.
Plan for temperature swings: Even summer tent camping requires warm clothing. Pack layers for children as temperatures can drop below 40°F overnight, even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s.
Tips from RVers
Smaller trailers preferred: Manzanita Campground and surrounding areas accommodate modest setups. A camper shared, "We pulled a small 4x8 camper with a jeep wrangler and did okay. Several camp sites in the east pocket and it will feel secluded even if there are people around."
Cell service considerations: Signal strength varies considerably throughout tent camping areas near Happy Jack. One camper at FR 240 observed, "Cell signal is sporadic, depending on the occupancy of the RV park down the road about 6 miles. More RV park campers means more cell congestion and slower speeds."
Traffic awareness: OHV activity affects some tent camping experiences. A visitor noted, "If this area has a drawback, it's that it has a lot of OHV use on weekends."
