Best Dispersed Camping near Pine, AZ

Several dispersed camping areas exist along forest roads near Pine, Arizona, primarily on Coconino National Forest land. These primitive sites include FS 609 Dispersed Camping, Milk Ranch Point Road, Pine Dispersed, and areas along Forest Road 141. Most sites are located within driving distance of the Mogollon Rim, providing access to both forest and rim views. The dispersed sites generally have fire rings but no designated facilities or services.

Forest roads in this region range from maintained dirt roads to rougher routes requiring high-clearance vehicles. Many reviews note that sedans can access some areas, but roads can deteriorate, especially after storms. A camper noted that "the dirt road was too uneven for a sedan, would recommend some clearance." No drinking water, toilets, or trash services are available at these sites. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply. Most areas permit camping for up to 14 days, and fire restrictions are common during summer months. Cell service varies significantly by location, with some spots offering surprisingly good connectivity.

These dispersed areas attract campers seeking cooler temperatures during summer months when Pine's elevation provides relief from desert heat. The region experiences significant temperature variation, with pleasant summer days and cold nights. "The weather was amazing. High of 75-78 in the day and high 40's at night," noted one visitor to a nearby area. Some sites offer more privacy than others, with those farther from main roads generally providing more seclusion. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area. Campers regularly report that sites closest to the Rim offer exceptional views but can be more exposed to wind. Those seeking quieter experiences should venture beyond the first available sites along forest roads.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pine, Arizona (147)

    1. FS 609 - Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    Strawberry, AZ
    4 miles
    Website

    "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."

    "Car camped with the dog. The area was nice and the spots had fire rings. Maybe a little rocky for tent camping so bring a rake."

    2. Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "What a great dispersed camp site! Do not pull of at the first site. Keep driving along the rim and you’ll find the perfect spot for you with an amazing view."

    "We arrived around noon on Friday, and within an hour or two there were two others who arrived--but thankfully turned around to find another spot.  "

    3. Milk Ranch Point Road

    4 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 477-2255

    "Not a steep drop off so safe for having dogs around very windy im assuming bc of the location. Dirt road coming in but not bad at all. Easy to get our travel trailer in and out."

    "No amenities, so pack out what you bring in. Decent cell service."

    4. Pine Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 474-7900

    "Right off the highway. You can hear some of the traffic but it wasn’t a big deal to us. The dirt roads are decently kept and wasn’t too rough of a ride."

    "Along a mountain side there are 3-4 sites in close proximity however still kinda private. Established fire pits. Great tall trees for hammocks, flat rock base in some areas."

    5. Dispersed Camping - Rd 6107 near Mogollon Rim

    2 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 477-2255

    "We selected this dispersed campsite from the Dyrt review for our inaugural trip with our new travel van.  The view below the Mogollon Rim is breathtaking.  "

    "You have access to multiple lakes that you may fish out of and plenty of campsites."

    6. Milk Ranch Point

    1 Review
    Pine, AZ
    4 miles

    "Site on map occupied but found another turnout 100 yards down the road great trees & greave views."

    7. Payson Rim Dispersed

    2 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 477-2255

    "Arguably some of the best in Arizona.

    We rolled in around 6:30 pm and were still able to find a prime spot without competition."

    8. Blue Ridge Reservoir

    8 Reviews
    Happy Jack, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 477-2255

    "This is specific to dispersed camping around the lake as that is what we took part in. Lots of available areas where you can find seclusion and quiet surrounded by a beautiful area."

    "Heavily wooded area with tons of space for dispersed sites. Road is in great shape and easy for our travel trailer to make it in."

    9. FR141 Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    Pine, AZ
    10 miles

    "A wonderful spot that is secluded and away from the busy FR300 traffic. 8 miles off of Hwy 87. There are no services but close to Kehl Springs Campground where there are restrooms."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pine, AZ

567 Reviews of 147 Pine Campgrounds


  • Nolan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2019

    Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    Bear Canyon

    Bear Canyon campground and lake located off AZ260 north east of payson. Near Woods Canyon lake(larger and more accessible), and Knoll lake(smaller than Bear Canyon)

    Bear Canyon campground is easily accessible and free. No reservations. No water/electric hookups. No picnic tables. No trash service-pack it in, pack it out. It will fill up on weekends during the summer as the weather is so temperate. We came up on a weekday and stayed to the beginning of the weekend and it wasn’t too crowded.

    Pros: The weather was amazing. High of 75-78 in the day and high 40’s at night. There was a constant breeze which kept it cool and fresh feeling. The lake is a short hike(0.2 miles) from the trailhead. And provides good fishing from the shore. There is plenty of free firewood’s around; just bring a saw and splitting axe. Near the Rim and other lakes (Woods Canyon and Knoll). Pit toilets were a far walk depending on where you camped but they were clean.

    Cons: This entire area is very rocky! We have a pop up but I can’t imagine tent camping without an air mattress. Each campsite maybe has a fire pit and that’s it. Boats and Kayaks would be a real challenge to bring down and up as the trail is very steep, rocky, and loose.

    Overall, we were disappointed that we were unable to use our kayaks but the weather make up for it and it was a great, relaxing trip.

  • Nolan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2019

    Mesquite Wash Dispersed

    Mesquite Wash/Sycamore Creek

    Mesquite Wash is located approximately 20 miles northeast of Fountain Hills, Arizona. Follow the Bee Line Highway, SR 87, a few miles past the Four Peaks turn off. Watch for the Mesquite Wash sign. The main area is on the west side of the highway and is used primarily by off road vehicles. The east side of the highway is quieter and has several pull offs available for dispersed camping.

    There are no facilities; no restrooms, hookups, or trash. Pack it in, pack it out. The best time to go is in the winter months but with the weather being pretty fair it’s not too bad. You can have a fire but it depends on fire danger for the day. Pretty much if it’s hot and or dry, you won’t be able to have a fire.

    It is free and first come first serve, although there are plenty of spots to go around!

    All that being said, this is one of the most beautiful spots in the Sonoran desert! There are so many amazing views! Great for hiking or off roading.

    Side note: Please clean up after yourself! Forest Service has put so many restrictions on this area because people leave their trash out there.

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

    Bear Willow Road Dispersed Camping

    Highly Used Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping off dirt roads. Highly Used but still space for privacy. Fire restrictions in the summer. No cell service. Some groups were loud and some vehicle traffic throughout the night. Sites are not numbered, just camp near the road. Check out Woods Canyon Lake on the way in!

  • 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!

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2024

    Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping

    Great spot to pull in

    Drove a mini van on the road, wasn’t too washed out or anything. A sedan could definitely drive to many of the spots. Many campsites available, beautiful scenery! Please help keep this place clean by leaving no trace!

  • 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.

  • Jacob S.
    Jun. 11, 2019

    Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    Good Family Camp

    Spent a few nights up here dry camping. Sort of a rough road going out. Lots of people but we got a spot on the edge of the camp. Bathrooms are as basic as they get. Windy in the morning but settled as the day went on each day. The lake is about a mile away. There is a short but very steep hike, don’t plan on carrying too much stuff. Nowhere to launch kayaks from the campground side but we could see a boat launch on the far side of the lake. Lots of people fishing, sort of hard to find a spot on the shore with space between anyone else. The water was pretty clean and ok for swimming. The camp and lake had a decent amount of broken glass which is a bummer. Pine trees are tall but area has been pretty cleared out so campsites are a little bit exposed. We had shade as long as we moved around through the day.

  • RGR D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 25, 2025

    Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping

    Great Rest Overnight

    The Bloody Bath access road was an easy drive (F250 SD with a truck camper). Washboards were easy to navigate but watch your speed on the down hill turns. We initially selected the site closest to Bloody Bath Road but decided to move further back to a site about a 1/4 mile in. The road (trail) back to the final site was a bit washed out (dry) with some deep ruts but again easily navigated in our truck. A 2WD Van or a SUV could easily access the site. The site was quiet. The biggest bummer was the amount of trash and empty beer cans strewn around the site. Real bummer.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 4, 2025

    Rim Road

    Beautiful Escape

    We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful. We just got here and I have at least some reception because I’m doing the review from the site. Was it easy to get to, right off the highway, we drove back about a mile into the woods and there was tons of places to camp. Granted it’s early January so that could have something to do with all the open spots. There’s no facilities of any kind. We’re totally Boondocking it with our RV no hook ups just the water we brought and a generator, but I couldn’t be happier so quiet.

    Oh yeah. If you are checking the weather, it’s closer to Heber than Payson. Payson low tonight expected to be 37, but Heber is expected to get to 24. Brrrrr


Guide to Pine

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pine, Arizona, where nature meets tranquility. With a variety of options, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking views at Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed, where you can soak in the stunning valley scenery and enjoy spectacular sunrises.
  • The Blue Ridge Reservoir offers a picturesque backdrop with its serene waters and surrounding wilderness, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • For a unique experience, check out FS 609 - Dispersed Camping, where you can camp amidst towering trees and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Pine, Arizona

Activities While Free Camping Near Pine

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the nearby trails at Buck Mountain Dispersed Camping, which offers access to scenic routes and wildlife viewing.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will love the opportunities at Blue Ridge Reservoir, where you can cast a line in a beautiful setting.
  • For those seeking solitude, FR618 Dispersed Camping provides a peaceful environment with stunning starry skies, perfect for stargazing at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping areas near Pine, AZ?

Several dispersed camping areas exist near Pine, AZ. Rim Road offers beautiful spots about a mile into the woods right off the highway, with plenty of space for privacy. West Clear Creek Dispersed Camping provides quiet camping along many off-road trails near the West Clear Creek trailhead. Other options include Bear Willow Road Dispersed Camping, FS 609, and Trail 1371 Dispersed Camping. Most sites are free with no reservations required. These areas typically follow standard dispersed camping rules—pack in, pack out, and stay in established sites. Some areas may have seasonal fire restrictions, particularly in summer. Most sites are accessible by standard vehicles, though road conditions vary.

What amenities are available at dispersed camping sites in Pine, Arizona?

Dispersed camping sites around Pine, Arizona are typically primitive with minimal to no amenities. Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area is free but offers no water/electric hookups, no picnic tables, and no trash service. Similarly, Trail 1371 Dispersed Camping follows the typical dispersed pattern—no services with pack in, pack out requirements. Most dispersed sites in the area lack toilets, potable water, and trash collection. Cell service is often limited or non-existent. Campers should be prepared for self-sufficient camping by bringing all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal bags. Fire rings may be present at some established sites, but seasonal fire restrictions are common, especially in summer months.

How do I access the Pine Trailhead for dispersed camping in Pine, AZ?

To access dispersed camping near the Pine Trailhead area, several options exist with varying access routes. FS 609 - Dispersed Camping offers spacious sites that allow you to spread out from other campers. For another option, Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping is accessible via Bloody Basin Road, which is manageable even for sedans to reach many camping spots. The road has some washboard sections but remains passable for most vehicles. Many dispersed sites in the Pine area are accessible via dirt roads that branch off from main highways. Most access roads are suitable for standard vehicles, though some rougher sections might require higher clearance. Look for established pull-offs and camping areas along these forest roads.