Dispersed camping sites near Pine, Arizona range from 5,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation, providing significant temperature variations between seasons. Forest roads in this area typically close during winter months due to snow accumulation, with most sites reopening by mid-April depending on conditions. Rustic camping opportunities in this region offer primitive sites without designated facilities but provide excellent access to hiking trails and fishing spots.
What to do
Fishing at Blue Ridge Reservoir: The reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities with several species available. One visitor noted, "There are plenty of fish. Where we camped at the water's end there were little baby fish that we caught, but all the bigger fish were splashing along the deeper areas." The reservoir requires non-motorized boats for access to the best fishing spots.
Wildlife viewing: FS 609 - Dispersed Camping areas provide opportunities to see elk and other wildlife. A camper mentioned, "We had a few gun shots and elks during the night." Another camper at this location noted they "had a recurring group of curious cattle since we were right next to their water hole."
Stargazing: The clear night skies in the pine forests provide exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed, a camper reported, "The stars... I mean, wow! The starry sky at night was one of the best we've seen anywhere, just stunning."
Paddling: Blue Ridge Reservoir is particularly well-suited for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor shared, "We brought our kayaks here and stayed one night a few hours out into the water. There are so many random spots you can stop at to camp, and several places to explore."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed camping areas offer privacy from other campers. At Pine Dispersed, one visitor noted, "This was a peaceful place to camp. Right off the highway. You can hear some of the traffic but it wasn't a big deal to us. We didn't see anyone for the three days we were there."
Cell service availability: Despite the rustic nature of camping near Pine, Arizona, some areas have surprisingly good connectivity. At Forest Road 9365 - ROAD TEMPORARILY CLOSED, a camper reported, "Strong 5G cellular signal on ATT. We got 120Mb/s speed there which was awesome."
Established fire rings: Many of the dispersed sites come with pre-existing fire rings. A visitor to FS 609 noted, "There are probably ~100 total sites on this road with camp fire rings. All very well spaced apart."
Canyon views: Several camping spots offer exceptional vantage points. A camper at FS 609 shared, "If you can, you absolutely should keep going down the main entrance road until you come to the first left turn. Turn left onto a half loop shown on the map. This road takes you to some amazing camping sites that overlook a giant canyon on the left!"
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many forest roads require higher-clearance vehicles. At Milk Ranch Point Road, a camper advised, "I brought my Chevy trax which is front wheel drive and had zero issues. Just watch for larger rocks once you pull off obviously."
Finding unmarked roads: Several dispersed camping areas lack proper signage. One visitor to FS 609 warned, "Hard to find if just looking for signs. The road can be hard to find without GPS, no signage."
Wind exposure on the rim: Camping spots near the Mogollon Rim can experience significant wind. A camper at Molitor Spot noted, "I recommend setting up your tent slightly into the trees to block the wind unless you're into all that noise from your tent."
Road conditions after weather events: Forest roads can deteriorate rapidly after storms. A visitor to Pine Dispersed shared, "The dirt roads are decently kept and wasn't too rough of a ride. We drove off the road to find a spot to set up."
Tips for camping with families
Safety near rim edges: Despite the dramatic views, some rim camping areas are relatively safe for children. A camper at Molitor Spot stated, "Felt very safe in the area for our 3 year old boy to explore with us, so if you expect any sheer cliffs or dangerous drop-offs, they aren't really there. There were gradual declines from the top."
Proximity to amenities: Families may appreciate sites closer to towns for convenience. At Payson Rim Dispersed, a visitor noted, "We rolled in around 6:30 pm and were still able to find a prime spot without competition," indicating flexibility for families with unpredictable schedules.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about respecting local wildlife. A visitor to Milk Ranch Point Road urged, "PLEASE PLEASE clean up after yourselves and be mindful of the wildlife that live here."
Temperature preparation: Pack clothing for significant temperature swings. A camper noted, "It gets cold- low of 30s and windy" even during otherwise warm seasons.
Tips from RVers
Road access for larger vehicles: FR141 Dispersed Site offers more secluded options away from busier areas. A camper noted it's "8 miles off of Hwy 87" and "a wonderful spot that is secluded and away from the busy FR300 traffic."
RV clearance challenges: Some entrance points can be difficult with larger rigs. At Forest Road 9365, a camper warned, "Big drop off on turn-in. We have a 39ft rig and the backend bottomed out when we pulled in. Keep that in mind if you have a big RV that tends to ride close to the ground."
Travel trailer access: Some areas accommodate travel trailers despite rustic conditions. At Milk Ranch Point Road, a visitor shared, "Dirt road coming in but not bad at all. Easy to get our travel trailer in and out."
Long-term considerations: Some areas may have enforcement of stay limits. A visitor to Forest Road 9365 observed, "There were 5 other RVs that people apparently had parked long term. Some had stickers on them indicating they were in violation of the 14 day stay policy."
