Best Dispersed Camping near Munds Park, AZ

Multiple forest service roads around Munds Park, Arizona provide free dispersed camping opportunities in the Coconino National Forest. Popular areas include Schnebly Hill Road (FR 153), Forest Road 240, and Edge of the World (East Pocket). These primitive sites are located on public land with several options offering scenic views of mountains and pine forests. Most sites feature established fire rings and relatively flat terrain suitable for tent camping and some RV boondocking.

Access routes to these dispersed camping areas vary considerably in quality. Schnebly Hill Road from I-17 is generally navigable for most vehicles for the first few miles, though conditions deteriorate farther along the route. Forest Road 240 accommodates trailers up to 31 feet according to camper reports, with sites available within minutes of reaching dirt roads. During wet weather, many forest roads become muddy and potentially impassable. Campers should note that "Road conditions can change rapidly with weather," and most areas enforce fire restrictions during dry periods. No amenities such as water, toilets, or trash service are provided at any of these locations.

The dispersed sites around Munds Park offer varying levels of seclusion and natural beauty. Near Foxborough Dam on Schnebly Hill Road, campers can find spots with good tree cover at approximately 6,000 feet elevation, providing cooler temperatures. "Pine trees, cool nights, beautiful place," noted one visitor, though they cautioned about heavy off-road vehicle traffic, particularly on weekends. Sites along FR 240 provide easy access to both Munds Park and Flagstaff for supplies. Campers frequently mention the presence of cattle in nearby areas, with one noting, "At night it was kind of odd as you could hear the mooing from lots of cows from a nearby farm." Wildlife viewing opportunities and hiking trails are accessible from many of these camping locations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Munds Park, Arizona (146)

    1. Edge of the World (East Pocket)

    53 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Finding the area was slightly a challenge but the drive was more than worth it. We went with huge puddles and mud so I recommend a high clearance 4x4 vehicle for the drive up. Views were stunning"

    "High clearance vehicle recommended but I don’t feel it’s required. Saw some rogues and rav4s make it."

    2. Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed Camping Area

    52 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    9 miles
    Website

    "Due to the ease of access from Sedona and Flagstaff this campground sees a lot of action."

    "Campground Review: Couple things to say about this campground... it's dispersed but in numbered lots and unless you have a high clearance 4x4 you must enter from West (89A)."

    3. Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam

    20 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Lots of spots that had existing fire rings. I used my propane fire pit since there were fire restrictions. If you drive down Schnebly hill road there a plenty of sites."

    "The road from the I-17 entrance was well maintained and can be driven on with any vehicle. I had my Chevy trax (front wheel drive) and made it fine. There are plenty of pull off trails we explored."

    4. Schnebly Hill Dispersed Camping

    17 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    5 miles
    Website

    "If you take this approach, a 4x4 with high clearance is a must. Bonus if you have some off-roading experience."

    "Just follow dirt road all the way down past the water tanks (it might feel wrong, but you’re going the right way!). Several spots with fire pits not far from the Schnebly vista point."

    5. Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    36 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    18 miles
    Website

    "This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping, but we decided against popping up our camper here and just car camped instead."

    "10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument off a side dirt road."

    6. Marshall Lake

    12 Reviews
    Flagstaff, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "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 before."

    "There is no water, power, pavement, or bathrooms anywhere in sight... perfect for star gazing. Pet friendly. Elk are abundant, as well as grazing cows, and the waterfowl is like a symphony of sounds."

    7. Schnebly Hill Road (FR153) Dispersed - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    8 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    6 miles
    Website

    "The location here is wrong and that's probably why there are bad reviews.... You can access off i17 by taking exit 320 and then driving down the forest road toward Sedona."

    "The coordinates here are incorrect but if you keep driving northwest of them on the road you'll find it right off the 17."

    8. Forest Service Rd 253 Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 526-0866

    "Road from I-17 is quite bumpy but manageable (we were in a camper van)"

    "Beautiful forest boondocking. Many different types of sites to pick from. Full sun, full shade or partial sun. An occasional 🐄 may stroll by."

    9. Forest Road 689 - Dispersed Site

    22 Reviews
    Rimrock, AZ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 203-2900

    "The location was very easy to get to off of the freeway but still had pretty views. There are two spots to park at within reason. It is not meant for anything larger than a camper van though."

    "It was the sweet easy spot to spend the night after a long day of hiking Sedona, easy access even when raining, we made breakfast chilled for a little while and then vi tibie our journey more hikes, heading"

    10. FR 240 Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "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."

    "Nice and cool under the trees, able to do some hiking around camp and paddle boarding up at Lake Mary. Lots of sites open along this road leading to Mormon Lake, some sites were closed down though."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 146 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Munds Park, AZ

729 Reviews of 146 Munds Park Campgrounds


  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 7, 2023

    Walnut Canyon USFS Dispersed Camping

    NO DISPERSED CAMPING ALLOWED!!!

    As of May 1, 2023 the Coconino National Forest Service has closed down many dispersed camping areas around the city of Flagstaff. This area is included in that. You can still drive off-road and explore during the day when the Walnut Canyon National Monument is open, but no camping and no camp fires are allowed.

  • Angela G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 24, 2021

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great Boondocking/Car Camp Spot

    This spot is perfect for boondocking or car camping, but we decided against popping up our camper here and just car camped instead. Not super dispersed, but the access road is accessible to most vehicles. However, some side road pulloffs are definitely better suited for 4WD vehicles. I would suggest walking the route first to make sure your particular vehicle can make it.

    I loved this campsite due to its proximity to the three National Monuments near Flagstaff: Wupatki, Walnut Canyon, and Sunset Crater Volcano. We decided to stop at these monuments on a whim during our National Park tour and they did NOT disappoint! I highly recommend visiting all three, and perhaps ending with Walnut Canyon, as it was my favorite. This campground is great for visiting all three, as each monument is only 10-25 minutes away. They are all incredible and very worth the visit if you’re in northern AZ for the staple Grand Canyon.

  • J
    Jul. 21, 2022

    FS 609 - Dispersed Camping

    Perfect Getaway

    I was very skeptical about visiting this campsite at first, because I felt the information that I could find online was minimal. After visiting, however, I would definitely recommend this campsite to anyone. It was spacious enough to spread out from other campers. It was lovely to be right in the middle of the forest. I'd recommend driving further in to be away from the noise of the highway. I saw some reviews saying the gate was closed, but it was open when we were there in July 2022. Important things to note: This campground is located in the Coconino National Forest, please follow their rules and fire restrictions. No reservations are necessary for this campground. We found service to be a little spotty, but not impossible. Dogs are allowed. The turn in was pretty subtle, so definitely keep an eye out for it and use Google Maps over Apple Maps, because Apple Maps has no idea where this site is! All in all, I would visit again!

  • Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2021

    West Clear Creek Dispersed Camping

    Pretty Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping along many off-road trails. Quiet and clean with no amenities. Fire restrictions in the summer. The West Clear Creek trailhead is nearby, so light vehicle trafiic for the trail. Tons of available spaces with privacy. No cell service.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2022

    Walnut Canyon Rd Dispersed Camping - CLOSED UNTIL 2025

    Great experience for dispersed camping with family

    10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument off a side dirt road. We are a family of 4 in a 26’ RV and were able to find a beautiful, private, remote spot on a Sunday with gorgeous trails to explore. Would absolutely come back and recommend!

  • Chris W.
    Aug. 1, 2023

    Dispersed Camping around Sunset Crater Volcano NM

    Beautiful area outside of Sunset Crater

    This is a really nice area on forest road 545 comma just outside of sunset crater national monument. when you turn to go to Sunset Crater as soon as you go over the cattle guard take a left and follow that road around lots of camping spots, the road isn't really bad there's a few washed out areas but my van was able to manage it

  • Jacqueline G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Lockett Meadow Dispersed Camping

    XXL Rig Friendly!

    We have a 30ft Skoolie (2002 bluebird) and tow a 17ft cargo trailer conversion and there were countless spots for us to fit in without having to drop the trailer! This area is VAST and breathtaking. There were a lot of campers when you first enter, but if you drive around you will find something perfect for your setup no doubt.

    The only thing I would say to be mindful of and I say this with regard to pets is that there were jeeps, trucks and 4x4s driving past occasionally during the night and they FLY down the gravel roads. We were not at all bothered by it - they’re out there having a good time enjoying the mountains and forests in their way just like we are but just keep your doggos and cattos close 🐾

    The roads are gravel and they are pitchy and rutted in areas. Some roads have a several inches droop off too but our bus did great through it. If you pay attention and arrive in daylight you’re absolutely fine. There are VERY few spots to turn around and to take the loop is several miles of gravel road out of the way so just look at the satellite on maps, take it slow and enjoy the view. We only had the time to stay one night but we will absolutely be back. CAUTION: elevation is 7500ft. If you are prone to altitude sickness be wary. You ascend from about 5000 to 7000 pretty quickly. Other than that watch the weather. The roads flood and wash out with rain from the mountains so be alert and plan accordingly and you will be fine. ENJOY and remember to LEAVE NO TRACE 🫶🏻

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2023

    Sunset Crater

    Close to Sunset Crater NM

    Dispersed camping we pulled into late, but met our purpose with campervan. Added bonus next morning to find we were so close to Sunset Crater National Monument. Well worth the time to visit!

  • Mallory D.
    May. 25, 2018

    Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping

    Rough terrain, busy

    The road into the campgrounds are very rough, small cars are not advised. There are only 10-14 sites available (first come first serve) depending what time of the year you arrive, since a pair of endangered owls nest between some of the campsites for a few months and will have the sites closed down. Be cautious of the stage of fire alert going on, when I went no campfires were allowed so I used a propane stove.

    The surrounding areas are beautiful and a family of deer made appearances regularly. Also its free, so it was nice to avoid a hotel cost for the night.

    The cons are that its hard to reach camp due to rough roads, very few campsites, and it seems the local teenagers really enjoy partying and screaming at all hours of the night. I assume you're better off on a weekday when all the kids are still in school.


Guide to Munds Park

Dispersed camping around Munds Park, Arizona offers numerous sites within Coconino National Forest at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. Most locations remain accessible from spring through fall, though Forest Service roads can become challenging after rainfall. The area features predominantly ponderosa pine forests with nearby cattle grazing land and occasional wildlife viewing opportunities.

What to do

Hike the Arizona Trail: The Arizona Trail passes near Marshall Lake, providing opportunities for day hikes or longer backpacking segments. "The Arizona Trail goes through this area," notes one camper who enjoyed exploring the surrounding forest.

Stargazing in open areas: The minimal light pollution creates excellent stargazing conditions. At Forest Road 689, campers report remarkable night skies: "Quiet, private, and a ba-jillion stars," according to a visitor who appreciated the unobstructed views.

Paddle boarding: Lakes near the dispersed camping areas offer water recreation during summer months. A camper at FR 240 Dispersed Camping mentioned "paddle boarding up at Lake Mary" as part of their weekend activities while camping in the forest.

Wildlife viewing: The forest around these dispersed sites hosts elk, deer, and various bird species. At Forest Road 689, one visitor reported: "I saw cows, elk, ravens, and deer. That was awesome!"

What campers like

Temperature relief: The higher elevation provides cooler conditions during summer months. A reviewer at Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam noted the comfort: "Nice views, fairly quiet, decent stargazing. Definitely cold overnight for mid April."

Accessible forest locations: Many sites offer easy access from main roads with minimal driving on forest service roads. At Pumphouse Wash, a visitor explained: "Short drive to rim lakes and weather is usually picture perfect here."

Pine forest environment: The tree cover provides welcome shade during warmer months. A Marshall Lake visitor described the setting: "Lovely spot! Nice & shady with the trees on a hot summer day."

Space between sites: Most dispersed areas provide adequate separation between campsites. One FR 240 camper mentioned: "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 vary significantly: Some routes require high-clearance vehicles while others accommodate standard cars. At Edge of the World (East Pocket), a camper warned: "The ride in is rocky, I came in very slowly... just be careful for sharp rocks."

Seasonal closures occur: Winter snow and spring mud can close access roads. A visitor to Pumphouse Wash reported in March: "Closed, due to snow I guess? Looked like a nice spot."

No facilities available: All dispersed sites lack water, toilets, and trash service. A camper at Edge of the World advised: "No facilities so pack it in and pack it out. I can't express how beautiful it is up there. If you have the means and the chance - do it!"

Fire restrictions change throughout seasons: Always check current restrictions before visiting. Some areas prohibit fires year-round, while others allow them seasonally in established fire rings.

Tips for camping with families

Pack extra water: The high elevation increases dehydration risk. A Marshall Lake visitor emphasized: "Bring lots of extra water/drinks, the high elevation is no joke."

Watch for passing vehicles: Some forest roads experience heavy off-road vehicle traffic. At Pumphouse Wash (FR 237), a camper observed: "There's a ton of traffic, no respect from other campers who blast music, trash the forest, fire off guns at all hours, and overall not a great vibe."

Choose weekday visits for quieter camping: Weekends often bring increased traffic and noise. A visitor to FR 240 mentioned: "Not too noisy all the time but definitely had our fair share of UTV/ATV friends going by all weekend."

Prepare for temperature swings: Days can be warm while nights turn cool, especially in spring and fall. A Marshall Lake camper noted: "Days are great, nights are chilly. Fires allowed in rings, check with local regs to verify it's allowed when you visit."

Tips from RVers

Scout potential sites before committing: Many forest roads become challenging for larger rigs. A visitor to Edge of the World advised: "The coordinates got you exactly where you need to be. Please keep driving as there are way better sites past there. Make sure to have a vehicle that can take a ton of dirt, gravel and some rocks."

Consider pull-off size carefully: Not all sites accommodate longer trailers or RVs. A camper at FR 240 shared: "We had a 21 and 31' trailer with us and found a great spot about 6 minutes after hitting the dirt road."

Position away from main roads: Forest roads can generate significant dust. An RVer at FR 240 recommended: "You want to be off the road as the dust from ATV and cattle trucks can get thick."

Check reception before settling in: Cell service varies throughout the area. As one Pumphouse Wash visitor noted: "NO CELL service so take that into consideration when dispersed camping."

Frequently Asked Questions

What wilderness areas can I access near Munds Park dispersed camping?

Near Munds Park, you can access several wilderness areas perfect for outdoor exploration. The Munds Mountain Wilderness is accessible via Schnebly Hill Rd, Fox Borough Dam, offering spectacular red rock views and hiking trails. For a unique volcanic landscape experience, the wilderness surrounding Sunset Crater provides fascinating lava flows and ancient volcanic features to explore. Both areas offer solitude and natural beauty with existing fire rings at campsites (though fire restrictions may apply seasonally). The surrounding Coconino National Forest has numerous trails that connect to these wilderness areas, making them accessible for day hikes from your dispersed camping location.

Where can I find dispersed camping areas in Munds Park?

Munds Park offers several excellent dispersed camping options throughout the surrounding Coconino National Forest. FS 609 - Dispersed Camping provides spacious sites with enough room to spread out from other campers, making it ideal for those seeking privacy. Another option is Freidlein Prairie Dispersed Camping, which offers 10-14 sites on a first-come, first-served basis, though be aware the access road is rough and not suitable for small cars. Note that some dispersed camping areas around Flagstaff have seasonal closures or restrictions, so it's best to check current Forest Service regulations before your trip. Most sites have existing fire rings, but fire restrictions are common during summer months.

How far is Munds Park dispersed camping from Flagstaff?

Munds Park dispersed camping areas are approximately 15-20 miles south of Flagstaff, making them conveniently accessible for day trips. Walnut Canyon USFS Dispersed Camping is just 10-15 minutes from Walnut Canyon National Monument, which itself is about 10 miles east of Flagstaff. Another option, FR689 Dispersed Camping, is accessible via a narrow dirt road that's manageable even for larger rigs (up to 34 feet) if driven carefully. The proximity to Flagstaff means you can enjoy the solitude of dispersed camping while still having access to city amenities when needed. Most sites can be reached within a 20-30 minute drive from Flagstaff, depending on road conditions and your specific destination.