Forest Road 525 provides multiple dispersed camping sites near Rimrock, accessible via a dirt road that can be rough in sections. Located at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, these sites offer access to West Sedona with temperature ranges typically 10-15 degrees cooler than Phoenix. During winter months, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing while daytime conditions remain mild.
What to do
Creek access for cooling off: At Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort, campers can enjoy Oak Creek for swimming and fishing. "There's a hot tub and swimming pool, a creek to swim and fish in, nice bathrooms and showers, a dishwashing station. The campground is beautiful with trees everywhere and most campgrounds are close to the creek," notes Jordan H.
Explore nearby hiking trails: Multiple trailheads are accessible from the campgrounds, offering diverse terrain. "Camping here alone and to be specific this was the site I found 34.907012,-111.912714 which was in a busy section with pink jeep tours and ORV but literally so worth it. I got here in a Prius," shares Jessica Y. about Forest Road 525.
Visit local wineries: Within short driving distance of many campgrounds are several wineries. "Just 15 minutes away from Sedona and Cottonwood, about 30 minutes away from Jerome! There's 2 Vineyards down the road that we enjoyed... DA Ranch was absolutely beautiful and our favorite," a camper mentions about Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort.
Shuttle service for Sedona access: Rancho Sedona RV Park offers convenient transportation options. "City of Sedona shuttle connect can pick you up directly from campground. Can't beat the location," says Daniel Z., allowing visitors to explore without driving.
What campers like
Dog-friendly amenities: Zane Grey RV Village offers features specifically for four-legged campers. "The RV park is immaculate! They are always working on keeping it pristine. Facilities are excellent! The sites are great! Love the location by a beautiful creek!" Risa H. mentions about this pet-friendly destination.
Level camping sites: Many dispersed areas provide natural, flat spots suitable for tents and RVs. "We took advantage of the laundromat which was great. Too cold to use the pool or tennis courts. Based on the campground map, we chose a site near the river," notes Seth P. about Verde Ranch RV Resort.
Accessibility for various vehicles: The forest roads offer options for different vehicle types. "Lots of sites, if anything the popularity is the only downside. Road fine for any car, but was hard to avoid bottoming out getting into my camp spot. Will definitely stay here again," shares Liz W. about Forest Road 525.
Shaded camping areas: Several campgrounds feature mature trees providing natural shade. "Stayed here with my 2 year old granddaughter. Plenty of other kids to play with. A combination of tents and RV's. Beautiful area, playground and swimming pool, right on the creek which is accessible for swimming," Ellen W. comments about Lo Lo Mai Springs.
What you should know
Winter temperature fluctuations: The area experiences significant day-night temperature swings during colder months. "We showed up just before sunset on a Tuesday night and drove about 5 miles in. All of the pull-offs had a few campers so we just chose the least crowded. Great view of the rolling hillside, clear skies," shares Jacs D. about dispersed camping.
Campsite availability challenges: Popular areas fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Overcrowding has ruined this place. 95 percent of all spots were closed off for camping, and the few spots that were available had multiple ppl in them. Would not recommend," warns Sruly K. about Forest Road 525.
Highway noise at some locations: Verde Ranch RV Resort and similar sites near interstates experience road sounds. "The staff were nice about letting us change to a site not so close to the interstate and refunded the difference in price for the less expensive site," explains Seth P., highlighting how proximity to I-17 affects some campsites.
Insect activity at creek-side sites: Water proximity can bring unwanted visitors. "The amenities are nice our kids liked the playground, and the pool was nice to have when it was hot in the afternoon. The site they had us at was infested with BITING horseflies... I'm talking like in the hundreds," warns Brianna L. about Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Verde River RV Resort offers multiple recreation options. "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" shares Mstwister E.
Multi-generational activities: Several campsites accommodate various age groups. "LoLoMai is our go-to campground. It has an ideal 2h drive distance, is nestled into the oak creek canyon, and secluded from the road. Kids can roam freely. From sitting in the creek during the summer heat, to exploring the nearby wineries," notes Ssch D.
Campground social environment: Some locations foster community interactions. "We went over Thanksgiving and had a splendid time. The staff is super nice and awesome. There was so much to do from mini golf, painting classes, live music, dinners, karaoke, and free breakfast 3 days a week," Christina R. mentions about Verde River RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Satellite connectivity issues: Tree coverage affects reception at certain campsites. "If you want a shady site in a cooler location, this is it. The temperature was consistently 5 degrees below the towns of Camp Verde and Cottonwood. However, the trees that provide the shade also may block access to satellites," Cal B. points out about Zane Grey RV Village.
RV site differences: Not all spaces offer equal amenities or layouts. "Sites here are priced according to size, whether it has trees, and whether it is along the river. We took a cheap space with none of the above, but it was still great!" shares Melody M. about Verde River RV Resort.
Road conditions for large rigs: Access routes vary in quality for bigger vehicles. "The road in from Cottonwood is actually easier than the road from Sedona. We tow a travel trailer with a high clearance pickup and did it fine. Amazing views, beautiful area, breathtaking scenery," mentions Dan K. about dispersed camping near Rimrock.