Best Tent Camping near Pine, AZ

National Forest lands surrounding Pine, Arizona offer diverse tent camping options ranging from established campgrounds to remote backcountry sites. The Tonto National Forest provides numerous primitive tent camping areas, including Lower Tonto Creek campground with its creek-side tent sites and Molitor Spot along Rim Road for dispersed camping. Bearhide Group Site offers walk-in tent sites with established fire rings in a more secluded setting, while Edge of the World (East Pocket) provides dramatic views for tent campers willing to navigate rougher forest roads.

Most tent campgrounds in the Pine area feature basic amenities with varying levels of development. Fire rings are common at established sites, though seasonal fire restrictions frequently apply during dry periods. Vault toilets are available at some locations like Childs Camping Area, but most dispersed tent sites lack facilities entirely. Surface conditions typically consist of natural forest floor with minimal site preparation. According to campers, access roads to many backcountry tent sites require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after rain. One visitor noted, "The road in is bumpy and rocky, but not impossible," when describing access to Edge of the World dispersed camping area.

Tent-only camping experiences near Pine offer distinct advantages over developed sites. In September, many areas provide comfortable temperatures with highs in the 70s and lows in the 50s. Ponderosa pines provide natural shade at higher elevations, while proximity to creeks and lakes creates opportunities for fishing and swimming. A camper at Chevelon Canyon Lake Campground reported, "The sites are large with fire rings, picnic tables, and large trees providing shaded areas throughout the day." Weekday visits typically offer greater solitude, as several reviewers mentioned weekend crowds at popular tent camping destinations. The FR95 Dispersed Camping area provides secluded tent sites with good tree cover and proximity to Blue Ridge Reservoir, making it ideal for primitive tent camping experiences away from crowds.

Best Tent Sites Near Pine, Arizona (44)

    1. Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed

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

    "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.  "

    "A ton of pull offs to choose from and far enough away from other campers. I had service there with AT&T. It gets cold- low of 30s and windy"

    2. Childs Camping Area

    4 Reviews
    Strawberry, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 203-2900

    "NOT family friendly...unless you don't mind your tiny humans seeing naked people wandering around. Other than that, awesome place to visit!! Dispersed camping right on the Verde River."

    "Trails to a hot spring and next to fossil creek water fall. Vault toilet and camping right next to the river. Watch for bulls roaming the campground!"

    3. PJ's Hangout

    2 Reviews
    Payson, AZ
    11 miles
    +1 (916) 670-8385

    4. First Crossing

    1 Review
    Sun Valley, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 474-7901

    5. Lower Tonto Creek

    5 Reviews
    Kohls Ranch, AZ
    21 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "My son and I left Mesa around 6:00 PM - we drove up to the campsite - got there just before dark we found an open campsite - we set up our tent started a fire and the enjoyed the evening-

    Having such"

    "summer 1week camping in the pines, always have to visit the Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery as well, many gigantic 3 foot rainbow trout fishies in the feeding/storage pond, thousands of smaller rainbows seperated"

    6. Forest Service Rd 81

    1 Review
    Happy Jack, AZ
    18 miles

    7. Edge of the World (East Pocket)

    52 Reviews
    Sedona, AZ
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "I’d definitely recommend patience and a vehicle that you’re comfortable hitting ruts, rocks, etc with depending on which route you choose to take into this location."

    "The road in is bumpy and rocky, but not impossible (a Ford Mustang in the site next to us clearly made it)."

    8. FR95 Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Pine, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Our small group (8 people/4 vehicles) had a great time at one of the secluded dispersed sites located off the forest road."

    9. Bearhide Group Site

    2 Reviews
    Sun Valley, AZ
    23 miles

    "The individual campsites here are not really well defined, but there are probably 5-6 fire rings spread out over a pretty wide area."

    "Bearhide is a group site located on FS Rd 405A on the way to Bear Flat day use area. I found this on the way there and intend to go with a larger group."

    10. Manzanita Campground

    25 Reviews
    Munds Park, AZ
    42 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 204-2034

    $30 / night

    "We checked in with the camp host, who was very kind and helpful, and set up. The creek running by the campsites is amazing. The campground also sells firewood if you happen to forget it."

    "The campground has restrooms, a natural water pool (cold), and 5 mins away from the Sedona natural slides."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 44 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Pine, AZ

1099 Reviews of 44 Pine Campgrounds



Guide to Pine

Tent camping near Pine, Arizona offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.

Tips for tent camping near Pine

  • When visiting the Molitor Spot Along Rim Road, be prepared for windy nights, as the exposed location can lead to breezy conditions.
  • The Childs Camping Area requires a careful drive on unpaved roads, so ensure your vehicle is suitable for rough terrain.
  • For a peaceful experience, consider camping during the week at Childs Camping Area to avoid the weekend crowds.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Lower Tonto Creek, you'll find spacious sites with access to nearby hiking trails and fishing opportunities.
  • The Bearhide Group Site offers well-maintained access roads and multiple fire rings spread across a large area for group gatherings.
  • FR95 Dispersed Camping provides a secluded environment with plenty of shade and nearby water for swimming.

Tent campers should check out scenic views

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Pine, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Pine, AZ is Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Pine, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 44 tent camping locations near Pine, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.