Dispersed camping areas near Jacob Lake offer primitive camping options in the Kaibab National Forest where elevations reach around 8,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically remain in the 80s during daytime with cooler nights even in July. National Forest roads surrounding Jacob Lake provide multiple dog friendly camping opportunities with varying levels of accessibility depending on vehicle clearance.
What to do
Explore Arizona Trail access points: Forest Service Rd #205/225 Upper Dispersed Camping connects campers directly to the Arizona Trail. "The nonmotorized Arizona Trail is adjacent to the FS road and runs close to many of the dispersed sites, so this area is great if you want to hike or mt bike the trail," notes Greg L.
Visit the North Rim: The drive from Jacob Lake to Grand Canyon North Rim takes about 45 minutes. "The 30-mile drive to the Grand Canyon North Rim Park Entrance is nothing short of gorgeous, made even more thrilling by random deer, elk and a roaming herd of buffalo," according to Michael A. at Jacob Lake Campground.
Watch for wildlife: Early mornings and evenings offer prime wildlife viewing opportunities. "You can hear the bats chirping at nighttime. It is also very clean, the nicest pit toilet I've ever used!" reports Kelly R. Many campers report hearing coyotes and owls throughout the night.
What campers like
Level camping spots: Forest Service #247 Road Dispersed Camping features flat areas that work well for both tents and smaller RVs. "The spot was flat enough and we managed to scoot around enough and find a flat spot without getting out our levels," shares Laura M.
Cell service availability: Despite the remote location, many dispersed sites offer surprisingly good connectivity. "Cell signal was surprising ok due to close proximity to the towers just north of Jacob Lake," notes Greg L. Another camper confirms: "Good cell service for att and Verizon."
Privacy and spaciousness: Most dispersed camping areas provide ample separation between sites. "The sites were so widely spaced. If you like a private spot under the stars and surrounded by large pines then this is for you," says Taylor about Forest Service Rd #205/225 Upper Dispersed Camping.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Some forest roads require high-clearance vehicles. "The forest road is clearly marked ahead of time but the road leading south is so rutted it is treacherous for anything low clearance," warns Benjamin about Forest Service #225 Road. However, many sites are accessible with standard vehicles when dry.
Toilet facilities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities, but some areas have vault toilets. "This site had a fire ring and was near a trail that offered about a 15 minute walk (or 3 minute drive from the road we came in on) to a vault toliet bathroom," notes Taylor.
Weather considerations: The elevation brings cooler temperatures year-round. "It snows here quite a bit in the winter due to elevation," Benjamin reports. Another camper mentions, "It was COLD...which was to be expected at this time of year. But be prepared if you choose to enjoy this area in the 'off season.'"
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to amenities: For families needing supplies, Jacob Lake 89A Dispersed offers convenience. "Within walking distance of the Jacob Lake Inn (have to walk on the side of the highway but traffic is not bad). It is a beautiful spot, lots of flat level room under the trees," says Walther D.
Dog-friendly options: All dispersed areas welcome pets, but some offer better dog exercise areas. One camper recommends keeping pets inside at night: "When camping with pets in this area, wildlife awareness is important as we did hear some wildlife in the night, possibly wolves."
Educational opportunities: The Arizona Trail provides learning experiences for children. "The site had a fire ring and was near a trail," notes one camper. Families can combine camping with educational hikes along the Arizona Trail to learn about local flora and fauna.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Forest Road 248 Campsite accommodates larger vehicles according to users. "Great dispersed sites if you get about 1/2 -1 mi from 89A. The pines offer shade," reports Mark F. The forest road is described as big-rig friendly.
Parking logistics: Many dispersed sites have pull-through options. "This particular spot where we stayed was very easy to access in our 26ft class c. It's basically a pull through loop so you don't even need to turn around," describes Laura M. about Forest Service #247 Road.
Water and waste management: No hookups are available at dispersed sites, so RVers must arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks. The closest dump station is at Kaibab Camper Village, which offers full hookup sites as an alternative to dispersed camping.
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