Dispersed camping areas near Petrified Forest National Park occupy high desert terrain at elevations between 5,400-6,200 feet, creating stark temperature contrasts between day and night. The region receives less than 10 inches of annual rainfall, with most precipitation arriving during summer monsoon season. Many primitive sites provide direct access to the Painted Desert's colorful badlands terrain with minimal development or designated boundaries.
What to do
Stargazing in backcountry zones: Obtain a free wilderness permit at the visitor center for Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area. "Once you're out there - you're out there! No amenities and you only have what you packed!" notes Shavit L. Hikers must travel at least one mile from established trails to camp legally.
Explore canyon systems: The area surrounding Painted Desert Rim Drive Dispersed Pulloff features accessible hiking from camp. "My spot had a fun scramble down towards the bottom. Definitely use caution!!! Several of the stairs were wobbly," reports camper Alyx R. about exploring the rim terrain.
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk provide prime viewing opportunities for pronghorn antelope, coyotes, and numerous bird species. Jeremy A. mentions seeing "a very wary herd of pronghorn antelope" while backcountry camping in the Petrified Forest Wilderness Area.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: The complete absence of artificial light pollution makes for exceptional astronomical observation. "You can see the night sky stars," notes Jeremy A. about the wilderness camping experience at Petrified Forest National Park.
Proximity to park entrance: Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts offers convenient overnight parking adjacent to the south entrance. Shane D. appreciates this setup: "Great spot right at the entrance to the park. Very kind of the owners to allow so many spaces (20?) for free."
Geological exploration: The dispersed areas feature accessible petrified wood specimens outside park boundaries. Jen G. notes about Crystal Forest Museum: "There's covered picnic tables, cement tipis, very strange dinosaur sculptures, and a LOT of free petrified wood, which is totally fine to snag as it's outside of the park."
Desert solitude: Campers frequently mention the peaceful isolation available at most dispersed sites. Dana H. describes Painted Desert Rim Drive: "Private, there was 1 other camper on the rim, and they were probably 1/4 mile away. The place was absolutely beautiful."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: High desert climate means significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Campers should prepare for extreme conditions, particularly wind. At Concho Lake, one camper simply noted: "WINDY" when describing conditions.
Water requirements: No natural water sources exist at any dispersed camping areas around Petrified Forest. Kate S. confirms for wilderness camping: "Permits are available at the visitor center. We walked down into the wilderness area behind the painted desert Inn. Beautiful views, an easy hike out, and no one else around."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack any amenities. At Crystal Forest Museum, Francois T. notes the options: "Great Spot, 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 er we are in paradise now."
Road conditions: Many access routes deteriorate during wet weather. About 5 Mile Wash BLM, Stephen P. warns: "Got to the location and it was not marked by any signage and the entrance was all fenced off."
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed sites: For camping with children, the more established locations provide better safety margins. Matt F. notes about Crystal Forest Museum: "We stayed here for a few days while we explored the park and rested up for more travel. Something to note, if you get there after dark, the free camping is at the museum on the right."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dutch's Tank provides recreational options beyond basic camping. Rick W. mentions: "In the back of this area is a huge ATV/Moto-x like course. Great hills and tracks!!"
Educational opportunities: The Crystal Forest Museum features geological displays that complement park visits. Rebecca O. notes: "The gift shops open at varying hours themselves, but it's best to leave a day or two to fully explore all this underrated park has to offer! Lots of interesting relics from the 50s and 60s in the gift shop area itself."
Tips from RVers
Level parking considerations: Finding flat ground for larger vehicles can be challenging in this terrain. At Dutch's Tank, Jason Q. reports: "I stayed in the first spot with a 16' livestock trailer. Easy to get in and out, road ain't terrible."
Cellular connectivity: Coverage varies significantly by location. Rick W. notes about Dutch's Tank: "Almost no vz internet. Very clean, very little trash. Good dispersed camping."
Electric hookup options: Most rustic camping near Petrified Forest lacks any utilities, but limited options exist. At Winslow Visitor Center, Laura M. advises: "This is a large paved lot, adjacent to an even larger paved gravel lot, where overnight parking is allowed... Good cell service here for both ATT and Verizon."
Overnight urban options: Several communities provide free overnight parking for self-contained vehicles. Ken W. notes about Winslow Visitor Center: "Staff at the visitor center are very friendly and helpful. Overnight parking is allowed; however, the size of the lot will decrease significantly as they are building a new library."
