Primitive camping near Mormon Lake, Arizona offers access to cooler mountain temperatures and pine forests at elevations around 6,800 feet. Dispersed camping sites extend beyond the immediate lake area, with many locations situated along forest service roads throughout Coconino National Forest. Sites typically feature natural clearings under ponderosa pines with established fire rings but require visitors to pack out all waste.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Both Mormon Lake (when filled) and nearby Lake Mary provide fishing options. "I went on a trip here in late monsoon season, and the yellow flowers on the rolling hills was the prettiest landscape I've ever seen. The weather that day was perfect," notes a camper at Stoneman Lake Dispersed Area.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including elk, deer, and various bird species. At Marshall Lake, one visitor reported, "Elk are abundant, as well as grazing cows, and the waterfowl is like a symphony of sounds. Even saw a bald eagle!"
Stargazing: The area's elevation and distance from urban light pollution create excellent stargazing conditions. "Quiet and peaceful, my closest neighbors that I know of were over a mile away," writes a camper at Schnebly Hill Rd, while another mentions the "clear starry night" at Stoneman Lake.
What campers like
Varied terrain: The surrounding forest offers diverse landscapes from pine forests to meadows. A camper at Edge of the World (East Pocket) shares: "Though it was a mission to get to the spot, me personally I would say it's worth the effort. The peacefulness, the beautiful scenery it's a spot I definitely will make my way back too."
Temperature relief: The high elevation provides cooler temperatures than Phoenix and other desert areas. "Pretty much the only negative is Razors ripping up and down the road all day. Great opportunity also to see deer, elk and javelina," notes a visitor to Stoneman Lake Dispersed Area.
Accessibility: Many dispersed sites can accommodate various vehicle types. A reviewer at FR 240 Dispersed Camping comments: "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads vary widely in quality and may worsen after precipitation. "The road is interrupted by private land with a gate and signs. The Arizona Trail goes through this area," reports a camper at Marshall Lake.
Limited facilities: Prepare for self-contained camping without amenities. "No bathrooms, no RV hook ups, whatever you bring in you take out. It's truly for those who like to camp out under the stars and not the glamping experience," explains an Edge of the World visitor.
Seasonal closures: Many forest roads close during winter months. "Attempted to camp on 3/10 but road to campsites was closed," reports a visitor to Pumphouse Wash, while another noted: "Entrance very rocky and then road was closed to vehicles."
Fire restrictions: Check current fire restrictions before visiting. "I thought we would be able to set up a fire once we got there but I didn't see online that there was a fire ban so if you come here just make sure you check that," advises a Marshall Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites with natural play areas and level ground for tents. "We found a spot with a fire pit left from previous campers. Plenty of room to spread out, quiet and mostly tidy," notes a Marshall Lake visitor.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for encountering livestock and wildlife. A camper at Pumphouse Wash shares: "It is very bumpy when you first enter," and another adds, "The panels are rigid except for the hinges that are actually fairly stiff but slightly flexible."
Pack for variable weather: Weather can change rapidly at high elevations. "I'm unsure of how it is in summer months but we came March 2nd and it's fairly quiet. The weather was in the 70s in the day and the day we got her it dropped to 28 and snowed," reports a Pumphouse Wash visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for leveling. One camper at Forest Road 689 notes: "Road is a wash board but not that bad. Level for the most part and not tire rutted so your not rocking back and forth in an RV."
Space considerations: Larger RVs should scout sites before committing. "There are way better sites past there. Make sure to have a vehicle that can take a ton of dirt, gravel and some rocks," advises an Edge of the World camper.
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies throughout the area. A camper at Schnebly Hill Rd reports, "I have Verizon cell service, had 2 bars, enough for phone calls and texting," while others note complete absence of service in some locations.
