Dispersed camping sites near Strawberry, Arizona offer alternatives to the established Houston Mesa Campground. Located in the Tonto National Forest at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, these areas provide relief from summer desert heat with temperatures typically 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix. The surrounding ponderosa pine forest transitions between desert scrub and mountain woodland, creating diverse camping environments within short distances.
What to Do
Water activities at nearby rivers: Water Wheel Falls isn't the only water attraction near Strawberry. Verde River RV Resort, about 30 minutes from Strawberry, provides river access for cooling off. "We took advantage of the bathrooms, laundry, and creek access. Amenities were excellent and very clean," notes a camper at Rancho Sedona RV Park.
Hiking trails beyond Houston Mesa: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region. "We took a 3.3 mile hike to woods canyon lake. There is a marina and boat rentals are available," reports a visitor to Mogollon Campground. For more challenging terrain, "Hangover trail was our favorite" according to another camper staying at Rancho Sedona.
Explore local towns: The area's small communities offer additional activities. "Close to Payson with all the amenities. Also, close to the Mongollon Rim. Reasonable cell coverage with Verizon," mentions one camper about Houston Mesa. Another adds that the area is "Within 2 miles East on Houston Mesa rd... you can drive to shofly Indian ruins."
What Campers Like
Natural shade from pines: The forest cover provides welcome relief from the Arizona sun. At Little Green Valley, campers appreciate the "beautiful spot off AZ state highway 260. Roads are a bit bumpy, and they have some shallow water crossings. RVs and campers can make it in with relative ease."
Space between sites: Unlike some crowded campgrounds, many dispersed areas offer breathing room. "Spots are fairly large and allow for some large rigs and is located right on the edge of town," notes a camper at Houston Mesa. At Pivot Rock Canyon, visitors report "tall pines all around, lots of exploring room for kids. The camping areas are all pretty open and there are plenty of spots to park a trailer or RV."
Night sky views: The region's relatively dark skies attract stargazers. "You can see so many stars at night, it's wonderful," writes a Mogollon Campground visitor. Away from urban light pollution, the Mogollon Rim area presents exceptional night sky viewing opportunities during clear conditions.
What You Should Know
Seasonal accessibility: Most rim campgrounds operate seasonally. "May to October" is the operating season for Mogollon Campground, while Houston Mesa remains open from "February 1 to November 30." Winter access to higher elevations can be limited by snow.
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary by forest section and season. At Pivot Rock Canyon, campers note that "Tonto National Forest is usually fire restricted this time of year but Coconino is not. This site is barely into Coconino. It is still very dry so be careful with it!"
Road conditions for dispersed sites: Access to off-grid locations requires preparation. At Milk Ranch Point Road Dispersed, "they just leveled and packed gravel down so the road is accessible for non 4x4 cars. I brought my Chevy trax which is front wheel drive and had zero issues. Just watch for larger rocks once you pull off obviously."
Tips for Camping with Families
Beginner-friendly horse sites: For families new to equestrian camping near Strawberry, Houston Mesa offers structured corrals and facilities. One family reports, "We've camped at Houston Mesa Campground several times and consistently have a fantastic experience... The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere."
Kid-friendly activity areas: Several campgrounds include dedicated recreation spaces. Verde River RV Resort features "a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" according to a regular visitor.
Proximity to amenities: When camping with children, access to supplies matters. A Houston Mesa camper notes it's "Close drive to home and nice setup that makes you feel like you are in the woods. No hookups here at all but nice clean bathrooms to use." Another mentions it's "Less than 10 minutes from Payson."
Tips from RVers
Water and dump availability: At Houston Mesa, "All paved driving and campsite parking except equestrian area no hookups they have places to fill water and to dump. Restrooms and showers nice a clean." Another RVer notes "No hook ups though but you can fill your tanks on site."
Consider noise levels: Road proximity affects campground quietness. At Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground, "If the sites had a little more privacy, I'd give five stars." Another RVer mentions at Houston Mesa "There IS a lot of traffic noise - and there's a Home Depot across the road from the entrance."
Site selection for shade: Summer temperatures make shade critical. "Took Friday off to get a Non-reserved spot early as this small ground can fill up quick for the weekend," advises a Mogollon Campground visitor. At Verde River, "they price the space according to size, whether it has trees, and whether it is along the river."
