Dispersed camping options around Lakeside, Arizona extend beyond the popular Rim Road and Dutch's Tank areas. The Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest surrounds Lakeside at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 9,200 feet, creating variable camping conditions throughout the seasons. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop into the 20s, while summer offers relief from lower-elevation Arizona heat.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Camp near Carnero Spring Road to access prime wildlife spotting opportunities. A camper noted, "Camped in the clearing by the lake. Some traffic came through but not bothersome."
Fishing: Access fishing spots from Rim Road dispersed camping areas. One regular visitor reports, "The lake just 6ish miles from the highway has always provided me with a super fun and productive fishing experience year after year."
ATV riding: Explore the designated course near Dutch's Tank. A camper discovered, "In the back of this area is a huge ATV/Moto-x like course. Great hills and tracks!!"
What campers like
Easy highway access: Many sites provide straightforward access for quick overnight stays. At Dutch's Tank, a camper shared, "I needed a spot to camp out before heading into Taylor early AM. Right off the road, I stayed in the first spot with a 16' livestock trailer. Easy to get in and out."
Dark skies: The distance from urban centers creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Rim Road, campers appreciate the escape: "We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful... so quiet."
Historical elements: The Timber Mesa Trailhead area contains interesting historical features. One camper reported, "We stayed right next to some ruins and all three of us had wild dreams about ghosts, ghost horses, and animals."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest Service roads can be challenging after precipitation. At National Forest Road 117C, a camper warned, "Don't try to make it to the shared coordinates soon after a snow melt. Grateful for our GoTreads. Road is rocky and rutted in places."
Seasonal closures: Fire danger can affect accessibility. Regarding Concho Lake, one camper noted, "Due to fire danger in the area currently it's closed."
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between sites. At Dutch's Tank, a camper reported "Almost no Verizon internet," while at Timber Mesa Trailhead, hikers can maintain communication.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education: The diversity of animals provides learning opportunities. At Timber Mesa Trailhead, a camper discovered, "The next morning we found we were only a few steps away from a mountain lion kill site! WOW! So many kinds of animals. Elk. Coyote. Cow. Sheep."
Alternative options: For families wanting basic amenities, consider Concho Lake. A visitor described, "Free and easy spot to stay for the night when checking out the petrified forest. There are prairie dogs and bunnies galore, which was a nice bonus."
Varied experience levels: Rim Road works well for beginners. One camper recommends, "If you're new to camping or even need a spot to sleep passing through I highly recommend this area."
Tips from RVers
Clearance considerations: Most dispersed sites require careful navigation. A Concho Lake camper described, "Dirt lot with turnouts with shrubs and pines offering decent privacy and quiet. There are cement pads for vans or smaller RVs in some spots."
Generator dependency: No hookups mean bringing alternate power. At Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts, campers noted, "Free if you stay on the right. Given the temps were in the high 90's we opted for the left side. $25 got us electrical and we are in paradise now."
Parking surface conditions: Seasonal changes affect parking stability. A Rim Road camper cautioned, "It was early spring and some areas were very soft so use caution with a heavy vehicle."
