Dispersed camping options near Rimrock, Arizona expand well beyond the immediate vicinity, with additional sites available throughout Coconino National Forest. The area's elevation ranges from 3,500 to 7,000 feet, creating distinct temperature zones and vegetation patterns between camping areas. Seasonal closures affect many forest roads from November through April due to snow and mud conditions, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore creek swimming spots: Manzanita Campground offers natural swimming areas along Oak Creek with cold, refreshing water. "The campground has restrooms, a natural water pool (cold), and 5 mins away from the Sedona natural slides," notes Fatima V. about this tent-friendly established campground.
Access hiking trails: Forest Service Rd 253 Dispersed provides convenient access to nearby trail systems. "A very easy place to get to if you don't have a truck. A bit crowded, but still a nice place to spend the weekend," reports Jeff, highlighting its accessibility for tent campers without specialized vehicles.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: While camping along Forest Road 240, visitors can encounter local wildlife. "Saw a herd of elk," reports Sam E., making this area appealing for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts looking for the best tent camping near Rimrock, Arizona.
What campers like
Morning views: Molitor Spot Along Rim Road offers exceptional sunrise viewing opportunities from elevated positions. "The views were extraordinary as we parked the Land Cruiser with the Roofnest in the ideal spot to not just soak up the afternoon and evening views, but to be blessed by a great sunrise from inside the tent," explains Bradley K.
Star visibility: The lack of light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities at many sites. "The stars... I mean, wow! The starry sky at night was one of the best we've seen anywhere, just stunning," shares a camper at Molitor Spot.
Temperature variance: Edge of the World dispersed camping area offers cooler temperatures than lower-elevation sites. "Though it was a mission to get to the spot, me personally I would say it's worth the effort to get to the spot. The peacefulness, the beautiful scenery it's a spot I definitely will make my way back too," writes Angel T., highlighting why many consider this among the top tent camping destinations near Rimrock.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many forest roads require high-clearance vehicles, particularly after wet weather. "The rocky trail ended with a flat tire on our truck (as we were hauling our truck camper.) We were looking forward to the views, but we were forced to turn back," warns Joe F. about attempts to reach Edge of the World.
Weekend crowding: FR 240 Dispersed Camping experiences significant weekend traffic. "Not too noisy all the time but definitely had our fair share of UTV/ATV friends going by all weekend," reports Zach H., noting the regular vehicle traffic during peak periods.
Cell reception variability: Service ranges from none to adequate depending on elevation and terrain. "I had service there with AT&T. It gets cold- low of 30s and windy," notes Shea B. about Molitor Spot, providing useful information for tent campers needing to stay connected.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Beaver Flats Road Dispersed offers flat terrain suitable for families with small children. "Nothing over the top in terms of amenities but it was perfect for our needs, and with a great home base for a Sedona trip. Maybe 20 minutes to the downtown," explains Jenna S.
Site selection strategy: For family tent camping near Rimrock, Arizona, sites further from main forest roads typically offer better experiences. "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," reports Bradley K. about Molitor Spot.
Temperature preparation: Pack for significant day-to-night temperature swings. "We went in October and the weather was fabulous. 70s during the day and stayed into the 60s at night," shares a camper at Beaver Flats, highlighting the need for layered clothing even during moderate seasons.
Tips from RVers
Road approach directions: Schnebly Hill Road offers dramatically different access experiences depending on approach direction. "The road is totally doable in a minivan or the likes if you have some experience driving on rougher terrain, but only if you are coming in off of hwy 17. If you are in Sedona and decide to take 89A because you don't want to drive out to hwy 17 like we did you will be met with a side by side trail," advises Ben W.
Site spacing awareness: FR 240 offers sites with varying degrees of privacy. "We arrived on a bussy weekend with many places taken. Not to worry with our 27ft trailer and Armada tow vehicles we were still able to find a nice spot. You want to be off the road as the dust from atv and cattle trucks can get thick," explains Tony B.
Pull-off selection strategy: Many dispersed camping areas offer multiple pull-offs with varying qualities. "Don't pull off at the first site. Keep driving along the rim and you'll find the perfect spot for you with an amazing view," recommends Haley D. about Molitor Spot.
