Dispersed camping options near Petrified Forest National Park extend beyond the designated wilderness area. The region sits at approximately 5,400 feet elevation in high desert terrain characterized by dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Weather conditions can change rapidly with strong winds common throughout spring months, creating challenges for tent campers without natural windbreaks.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area offers exceptional dark sky viewing. "See the Milky Way! It was my first time seeing it," notes one camper who explained that the complete absence of light pollution creates optimal viewing conditions throughout the year.
Wildlife observation: Early morning hours provide the best chance to spot local fauna. "See the night sky stars, a very wary herd of pronghorn antelope, the Triassic Chinle Formation that gives the Painted Desert its name," reports Jeremy A., highlighting the diverse wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the park.
Fishing: Concho Lake Recreation Area offers accessible fishing about 50 miles southwest of the national park. "Not a bad spot," writes Kiran B., noting the "open campsites with shade available" that serve as good base camps for anglers. The lake contains trout and catfish, with Arizona fishing license required.
What campers like
Complete solitude: Many backcountry campers appreciate the profound quiet. "After we paid the park entrance fee, we picked up our FREE back country permit from the visitors center first thing. There we were told we were going to be the only people in the desert that night," explains Mara F., highlighting the possibility of having vast sections of wilderness entirely to yourself.
Unique geological features: The Petrified Forest area contains remarkable formations. "It's a gorgeous place with the highest concentration of petrified wood known to man," notes Jeff N. The surrounding landscape includes badlands formations, colorful mineral deposits, and numerous fossil specimens not visible from roadside viewpoints.
Access to remote lakes: Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground provides a different experience from the desert environment. "The lake is nestles in between the tree covered hills with lots of life all around," reports Layne L., though campers should prepare for the challenging hike: "The lake requires a downhill hike of less than a mile but the way back up is strenuous for most."
What you should know
Pack for extreme conditions: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate gear. One camper advises bringing a "lower profile tent which does not grab the wind as much" after experiencing severe wind conditions that made camping impossible. Weather forecasts should be checked immediately before trips.
Water logistics: All water must be carried in at every location. "The only downside is you have to pack in all your water with you, making a multi-day trip a little harder," explains one wilderness camper, underscoring the importance of calculating water needs accurately before departure.
Trail conditions: The access routes into Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground require preparation. "According to my watch, it was over a mile and 550 feet of elevation. It is not an easy hike back up. It's almost all non stop elevation gain and extremely rocky," reports Beth G., adding that "It took 2 fit men, 90 mins to bring that kayak back up from the water."
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter hikes: For best tent camping near Petrified Forest Natl Park, Arizona with children, begin with less challenging terrain. "It's an easy hike down from the painted desert inn down and into the wilderness," notes Shavit L., suggesting this route as appropriate for families with hiking experience.
Consider alternative locations: Some families find BEKI'S Kick Azz Campgrounds more suitable for younger children than wilderness camping. With 8 designated sites and more amenities than dispersed areas, this private campground offers a middle ground between convenience and remote experiences.
Prepare for limited facilities: Even established campgrounds maintain primitive conditions. "This campground has 6 sites which each have a fire pit (with grill piece), picnic table, and room for 1-2 vehicles. There are two pit toilets on site, no water, trash service, or electrical," explains Hannah M., documenting the minimal facilities available at most area campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Access road assessment: Carefully research road conditions before attempting access with larger vehicles. "There was definitely some rough road the last .5 mile before you reach the camp on FR 169B. Some of it had washed out and there are a few step areas," notes Beth G. about Chevelon Canyon, adding that while 4x4 trucks and Subarus managed fine, larger RVs would struggle.
Alternative parking arrangements: For wilderness camping from RVs, some campers leave their vehicles at designated parking areas. "We backpacked into the Painted Desert from the Inn visitors center where there is water and toilets available," explains one camper, describing how they established a base camp at facilities before hiking into the wilderness.
