Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Strawberry, AZ
FS 609 Dispersed Camping provides multiple pet-friendly sites throughout the Coconino National Forest near Strawberry. This free camping area features established fire rings at most sites with plenty of space between campsites for dogs to explore. The dirt road access requires vehicles with decent clearance, though the first few sites off the highway are more accessible. Dogs must remain under control while camping, with no specific restrictions on number of pets. Pivot Rock Canyon and Pine Dispersed camping areas also welcome pets with similar policies. Most camping spots are spread out enough to provide privacy for those with active dogs. The road to FS 609 can be difficult to locate without GPS as there's no signage, but the camping area offers excellent solitude once you arrive.
Several dog-friendly hiking opportunities exist within a short drive of the dispersed camping areas. The nearby towns of Pine and Strawberry (15-20 minutes from FS 609) provide access to supplies and services for pets if needed. Many campers report elk sightings in the area, so keeping dogs leashed or under voice control is essential for wildlife safety. Cell service varies throughout the camping areas—T-Mobile works well in some spots but has no service in others. The terrain features tall ponderosa pines providing good shade for pets during summer months. Sites along Milk Ranch Point Road offer spectacular views from the Mogollon Rim, though reaching them requires navigating rough forest service roads where high clearance and 4WD are recommended for the most scenic camping spots with pets.
