Dispersed camping near Kohls Ranch, Arizona offers remote outdoor experiences in the Tonto National Forest at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet. These rustic camping locations lack modern amenities but provide direct access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and natural surroundings in the ponderosa pine forest. Most sites require self-sufficiency with variable road conditions depending on recent weather patterns.
What to do
Kayak at nearby lakes: Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area provides water recreation opportunities, though getting to the shore requires effort. "The lake itself doesn't have 'beach' area per se. It's quite rocky but for the nimble it's not too bad and there are lots of flat rocks to sit on," notes one camper. Woods Canyon Lake offers rentals for those without equipment.
Explore hidden trails: Little Green Valley features less-traveled paths beyond the main camping areas. "It also has a 7 mile hike to a place called Hells gate that has a swimming hole at the end of the hike. Lotta weekenders come up and hike up there," reports a visitor. The moderate difficulty trail rewards hikers with a swimming opportunity during warmer months.
Stargazing: Clear nights at Molitor Spot Along Rim Road offer exceptional celestial viewing opportunities. "The stars... I mean, wow! The starry sky at night was one of the best we've seen anywhere, just stunning," shares one camper. Bring binoculars or a telescope for optimal viewing, particularly during new moon phases when sky darkness is maximized.
What campers like
Secluded campsites with space: Many dispersed sites provide ample room between neighbors. At Forest Road 195 Campground, campers appreciate that it's "pretty secluded and pretty remote. Sites are of different sizes, anyone can camp, big trailers etc. very quiet except for nature and birds."
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from desert heat. "We wanted to get out of the southern Arizona heat. This place did just that," writes a visitor to Old Rim Road Dispersed Site. Summer temperatures typically range 30-40 degrees cooler than Phoenix, with pleasant daytime highs in the 70s-80s.
Wildlife encounters: The natural surroundings support diverse animal sightings. "We saw wild horses and tons of space for biking. We loved it," reports a camper at Old Rim Road. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, with minimal human disturbance increasing chances for observation.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires preparation. One camper at Promontory Butte notes, "A rather long, tough 4x4 route leads to this stunning overlook." Research current conditions before attempting access with standard vehicles.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites have no amenities. "It's pack in and pack out so be aware of that. There were 2 different toilet but they're gross and not maintained," warns a Bear Canyon Lake visitor. Bring all supplies including water, toilet paper, and trash bags.
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly during peak times. "We tried this site but it was full in both sides of 195. Not a site to be found," reports a visitor to Trail 1371 Dispersed Camping. Arriving midweek or early morning improves chances of securing desired locations.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Rim areas require supervision for children. At Molitor Spot, a parent notes, "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."
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly. "It rained every afternoon we were there for 3 days, but loved every bit of it," shares a camper at Old Rim Road/Forest Road 171. Pack extra clothing layers and rain gear even during summer months.
Noise levels: Some locations experience disruptive activities. One Bear Canyon Lake visitor cautions, "Loud music was being played all night and people would rev their ATV's a lot throughout the night as well. People would also shoot their guns so be careful for a stray ricochets." Choose more remote sites for quieter family experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Not all dispersed locations accommodate big rigs. At Old Rim Road Dispersed Site, a camper with a large RV advises, "Plenty of room for big rigs (40'+). I brought my 37' Motorhome and had no problem finding a big enough site."
Clearance requirements: Many access roads present challenges. "The roads off the main are VERY rough. In our Santa Cruz we had to go very slow and careful. Better suited for larger trucks with ample clearance," warns a camper at Trail 1371 Dispersed Camping.
Water management: No hookups means careful resource planning. Little Green Valley campers should note access limitations: "Roads are a bit bumpy, and they have some shallow water crossings. RVs and campers can make it in with relative ease." Bring sufficient water for your stay duration plus emergency reserves.
