Dispersed camping sites near Young, Arizona provide off-grid accommodations at elevations between 5,000-8,000 feet along the Mogollon Rim. Summer temperatures average 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix, making this rustic camping area popular during hot months. Forest roads provide access to numerous campsites with varying degrees of seclusion and amenities.
What to do
Fishing at Bear Canyon Lake: The lake offers productive fishing opportunities and remains less crowded than nearby alternatives. "The lake was relaxing. Saturday saw many more people enjoying the water. Would go again!" notes a visitor to Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area.
Hiking to swimming holes: Several trails lead to natural swimming areas during warmer months. "There is a 7 mile hike to a place called Hells gate that has a swimming hole at the end of the hike. Lotta weekenders come up and hike up there," reports a camper at Little Green Valley.
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife including wild horses and turkeys. "We saw wild horses and tons of space for biking. We loved it," shares a camper who stayed at Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171. Another visitor notes, "Wild turkeys are plentiful through here."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many campsites offer privacy and distance from neighbors. "The sites were nicely spread out. The first few sites were along the rim. The others were within forested areas, well off the dirt road," writes a camper at Old Rim Road Dispersed Site.
Cool summer temperatures: Higher elevation means comfortable camping even during Arizona summers. "We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful... so quiet," shares a visitor at Rim Road.
Lake access: Several camping areas provide access to lakes for recreation. "Just under 50 sites off the dirt road... The first few sites were along the rim," notes a camper. Another visitor mentions, "The lake just 6ish miles from the highway has always provided me with a super fun and productive fishing experience year after year."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans frequently affect the area. "There were fire restrictions during my stay so definitely look into that beforehand, as with any other place," advises a camper from Old Rim Road Dispersed Site.
Road conditions: Forest roads can be challenging depending on weather and vehicle. "Beware monsoons if you have 2wd," warns a visitor to Little Green Valley, while another notes, "Roads are a bit bumpy, and they have some shallow water crossings. RVs and campers can make it in with relative ease."
Limited facilities: Most rustic camping sites near Young lack basic amenities. "No toilets or hookups," reports one camper. Another mentions, "The roads off the main are VERY rough. In our Santa Cruz we had to go very slow and careful. Better suited for larger trucks with ample clearance," from a visitor at Forest Road 195 Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campsites away from roads: Some areas have traffic noise issues. "We stayed there for about 3 nights and loved it. We collected wood from the area, there was a little stream nearby," notes a visitor to Little Green Valley.
Pack extra trash bags: Previous campers sometimes leave trash behind. "This was a nice spot with a handful of other marked camp sites. The campers before me left some trash and if I had gloves I would have removed it but alas," reports a visitor to Bear Canyon Lake.
Consider lake camping for activities: Lakes provide entertainment for children. "Big campground, with hidden trails. The lake itself is beautiful and less crowded than Woods Canyon Lake. Overall it's a great spot if you can get a more secluded camp," shares a camper at Bear Canyon Lake.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large vehicles: Some dispersed areas accommodate larger RVs better than others. "I wanted to get out of the southern Arizona heat. This place did just that. Plenty of room for big rigs (40'+). I brought my 37' Motorhome and had no problem finding a big enough site," notes a visitor to Old Rim Road Dispersed Site.
Road access considerations: Roads vary in quality and accessibility. "We pulled onto Rim Road to (FR300) and travelled app. 1 mile to find a quiet and pretty camp spot. We were in a 25' class C motor home and the road was bumpy but passable. It was early spring and some areas were very soft so use caution with a heavy vehicle," advises a camper at Rim Road.
Elevation challenges: Higher elevations mean temperature changes and possible wind. "Numbered free camp sites. First come first served. Beautiful cool high country with many overlooks over the rim," shares a visitor at Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350.
