Best Dispersed Camping near Show Low, AZ

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Show Low, AZ has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Arizona camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Show Low camping trip.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Show Low, Arizona (24)

    1. Timber Mesa Trailhead

    3 Reviews
    Lakeside, AZ
    7 miles

    "Easy to get to, close to town, clearly marked trails and roadways. Hiking views were spectacular."

    2. Concho lake

    11 Reviews
    Vernon, AZ
    25 miles

    "Nice spot along the highway. You can hear vehicles but in a van, barely heard it. There’s prairie dogs and bunnies galore, which was a nice bonus. Clean porti potties and decent AT&T signal."

    "Great, great free camping. ~20 sites, most official sites have concrete pads & trashcans but a few more primitive spots just have driveways & rock campfire rings. Great Verizon Service."

    4. Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts

    32 Reviews
    Woodruff, AZ
    36 miles
    +1 (928) 524-3500

    "Right outside the South Gate of the Petrified Forest National Park. They offer free camping with no hookups for self contained rigs. Water is available at city hall if needed."

    "Dirt lot with about 20 spots for RVs, trailers, campervans, or any other self contained camper. They don't allow tent camping because there are no bathrooms available."

    5. Dutch's Tank

    3 Reviews
    Heber-Overgaard, AZ
    28 miles

    "Nice place, wide open views, easy access for Truck/rv. Almost no vz internet. Very clean, very little trash. Good dispersed camping. C20 miles to food/supplies."

    "Would bring the family back for some boondocking in our camper. Despite being the first spot closest to the road, so few cars pass here I rarely noticed."

    8. Carnero Spring Road

    1 Review
    Greer, AZ
    30 miles

    "Camped in the clearing by the lake. Some traffic came through but not bothersome. No amenities, must be self-contained."

    9. Beehive Spring Camp

    1 Review
    Greer, AZ
    31 miles

    "Logging tucks noisy during the day. At 9200 ft elevation got cold at night in September."

    10. Rim Road

    6 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    42 miles

    "We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful. We just got here and I have at least some reception because I’m doing the review from the site."

    "We showed late on Friday eve and were still able to get a great spot for tent camping. Pretty quiet and close to town."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Show Low, AZ

76 Reviews of 24 Show Low Campgrounds



Guide to Show Low

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Show Low, Arizona, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations to choose from, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while embracing the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Timber Mesa Trailhead

  • Located in the heart of Arizona, Timber Mesa Trailhead offers a unique experience with its flat spots for tents and a great fire pit, perfect for evening gatherings.
  • Campers have reported an intriguing atmosphere, with nearby ruins that sparked wild dreams and stories of local wildlife, including mountain lions.
  • The area is accessible by car, making it easy to reach while providing a sense of adventure in the wilderness.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Show Low, Arizona

  • For those seeking a peaceful retreat, Concho Lake provides a free camping experience with several sites that include picnic tables and trash disposal, though some areas may require a bit of cleanup.
  • Be prepared for windy conditions at Concho Lake, where campers have enjoyed the beautiful scenery despite the lake being dried up.
  • Always bring your own firewood, as some locations like Beehive Spring Camp may not have readily available firewood, especially in cooler months.

Scenic views and wildlife at National Forest Road 117C

  • Nestled on a mountain top, National Forest Road 117C offers stunning views and a sense of solitude, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Campers have enjoyed the tranquility of the area, with minimal traffic from logging trucks, allowing for a peaceful experience with nature.
  • This location is ideal for those traveling with pets, as it welcomes furry companions to join in the adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping areas near Show Low, Arizona?

Several excellent dispersed camping areas surround Show Low in Arizona's beautiful White Mountains. Rim Road offers numerous dispersed sites about a mile into the woods off the highway, providing a perfect escape from city life with good cell reception in some areas. Another popular option is Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area, though sites tend to fill up quickly on weekends, especially during summer months. These areas typically feature established fire rings, and many sites are numbered. When searching for dispersed camping, look for Forest Service roads that branch off main highways - many offer designated dispersed camping areas within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

Do I need permits for dispersed camping around Show Low, Arizona?

Most dispersed camping areas around Show Low don't require specific permits, but you should always check current regulations before your trip. Old Rim Road Dispersed Site features nearly 50 numbered sites with fire rings that don't require permits for use, though fire restrictions may apply seasonally. Be aware that the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest generally limits dispersed camping to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. While permits aren't typically needed, you should carry a valid recreation pass if parking in designated fee areas. During fire season (typically May-July), additional restrictions may be implemented that affect where and how you can camp, so check with the local ranger district office before your trip.

What are the dispersed camping options in the White Mountains near Show Low?

The White Mountains region near Show Low offers numerous dispersed camping options within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Beehive Spring Camp and Grover Spring Canyon Camp provide drive-in access to beautiful forest settings. Many dispersed sites in the White Mountains feature stunning views, particularly those along forest roads that follow ridgelines. Most areas have established fire rings, though seasonal fire restrictions are common during drier months. Sites are typically spaced well apart for privacy, though proximity varies by location. The White Mountains offer camping at various elevations, providing options for escaping summer heat or finding milder conditions during shoulder seasons. Most dispersed sites in this region lack facilities, so come prepared with water and pack-out waste management plans.

Is free camping available in Show Low, AZ and where are the best spots?

Yes, free camping is readily available near Show Low. Crystal Forest Museum and Gifts offers completely free overnight stays for self-contained RVs and campers (no tent camping allowed) with convenient amenities like dumpsters for trash disposal. While not directly in Show Low, it makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the region. Another free option is Concho Lake, which features multiple camping spots along the highway with portable toilets and decent cell signal. Many spots include fire rings and some have shade structures. The free dispersed camping areas throughout the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially during peak summer weekends, is recommended.