Dispersed camping sites near Pine, Arizona range from high-elevation rim overlooks to forested valleys with unique wildlife encounters. The diverse topography allows campers to choose between shaded pine groves at lower elevations or panoramic vistas along forest roads. Many dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles but remain accessible through most summer and fall months when temperatures stay cooler than Phoenix.
What to do
Hike to natural attractions: Several camping areas provide direct access to hiking trails. At Houston Mesa Campground, visitors can explore nearby ruins. "2 miles East on Houston Mesa rd. Away you can drive to shofly Indian ruins," reports csey R., who also notes that "2 miles north on 260 is creek on the West side of the road."
Explore forest service roads: FS 609 - Dispersed Camping offers extensive exploration opportunities through cattle gates and forest trails. "There are plenty of roads to pull of into and go through the little gates to go camping or exploring. Always keep the gates closed," advises Kenny R., who adds the area is "conveniently located to Pine and Strawberry."
Wildlife viewing: Forest camping areas attract diverse wildlife. While staying at Rim Road 6107, campers can experience dramatic weather patterns. "The monsoon season is a highlight. Being in those storms on the rim is an experience," notes Alex S., who frequents the area.
What campers like
Isolated rim viewpoints: Molitor Spot Along Rim Road provides secluded camping with minimal neighbor interaction. "Keep driving along the rim and you'll find the perfect spot for you with an amazing view," suggests Haley D., who gave the location five stars.
Cellular connectivity: Many dispersed camping areas maintain surprisingly strong signals despite their remote settings. Patrick V. at Forest Road 9365 reports "Strong 5G cellular signal on ATT. We got 120Mb/s speed there which was awesome," making this location practical for remote workers.
Temperature relief: The higher elevations around Pine provide natural cooling. "We decided on a whim to head north for the weekend," explains Patrick V., noting Forest Road 9365 is "a good place if you are just trying to get out of the heat."
What you should know
Road conditions vary widely: Access to the most scenic camping areas requires appropriate vehicles. At Pine Dispersed, Matt explains, "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. There are small tree stumps to watch out for but I'd image a small car wouldn't have an issue navigating."
Seasonal variables: Weather patterns affect camping conditions throughout the year. "The rim road area is easily one of my favorite in the state," notes Alex S. about Rim Road 6107, adding that "the grounds nearest the lakes fill up quick (as expected), but still easy access to the lakes."
Proximity to towns: Camping sites near Pine offer varying levels of convenience to amenities. Gregg T. notes that from Forest Road 9365, "Strawberry has a few restaurants. Pine has gas and a limited grocery. Payson or cottonwood would be the closest real towns."
Tips for camping with families
Look for established fire rings: Many dispersed sites come with existing fire rings for safer campfires. Matt found at Pine Dispersed that "There are established fire rings here and there. We didn't see much wildlife but heard turkeys in the distance."
Consider developed sites for amenities: Kehl Springs Campground provides basic facilities in a natural setting. "Peaceful and quiet campground. Bit of a trek up 300/Rim Road, but well worth it," advises Elizabeth C., who appreciates that the campground offers "decent bathrooms, no water so stock up."
Find kid-friendly exploration areas: Select camping locations with natural play spaces. Shiloh R. describes Kehl Springs Campground as "Remote, well treed with grassy fields. A bit far off the main road, but green and cool for a hot July. The site was immaculate and the bathrooms actually smelled good."
Tips from RVers
Clearance requirements: Assess your vehicle capabilities before attempting forest roads. Make Memes Not War P. warns about FS 609: "Wouldn't recommend for super long wheel-bases that don't have added ground clearance. Our Ford 350 Transit Extended van could handle the roughness of the road, however the long wheelbase nearly high centered us on the humps and dips a few times."
Site spacing considerations: Many camping sites near Pine provide ample separation between neighbors. Kenny R. notes FS 609 contains "probably ~100 total sites on this road with camp fire rings. All very well spaced apart."
Dumping facilities: Plan for waste management if staying at developed sites. At Payson Campground & RV Resort, Chris P. advises, "Dump station was closed while we were here and it looks like they charge to use is when open."
