Best Tent Camping near Sun Valley, AZ

Tonto National Forest lands surrounding Sun Valley, Arizona offer diverse tent camping options, from established campgrounds to dispersed sites along forest roads. Molitor Spot Along Rim Road provides tent-only dispersed camping with panoramic views of the Mogollon Rim, while Lower Tonto Creek offers walk-in tent sites near water. Forest Road 195 Campground and FR95 Dispersed Camping provide primitive tent camping opportunities with varying levels of seclusion. Bearhide Group Site features multiple tent pads in a forested setting, ideal for groups seeking a shared camping experience. Alderwood Campground, open May through October, provides established tent campsites with basic amenities.

Most tent campgrounds in the region feature dirt or gravel pads with minimal site preparation. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for accessing many dispersed camping areas, particularly after rain when forest roads can become rutted or washed out. Vault toilets are available at some established campgrounds, but most primitive tent sites lack facilities entirely. Campers should bring all necessary water, as potable sources are scarce. Fire restrictions are common during summer months, particularly in lower elevations. The standard 14-day stay limit applies to most dispersed camping areas within Tonto National Forest, and campers must use existing fire rings where available.

Tent campers frequently comment on the exceptional stargazing opportunities throughout the region. One visitor at Molitor Spot noted, "The starry sky at night was one of the best we've seen anywhere," though they cautioned about persistent winds at exposed rim sites. At Bearhide Group Site, a camper reported, "The individual campsites are not really well defined, but there are probably 5-6 fire rings spread out over a pretty wide area," allowing groups to maintain privacy while camping together. FR95 Dispersed Camping receives praise for its shade coverage, with one reviewer mentioning, "The trees at the site provided a lot of shade and places to hang up our hammock." Lower Tonto Creek campsites experience some highway noise, but the proximity to fishing and hiking trails compensates for this minor drawback.

Best Tent Sites Near Sun Valley, Arizona (36)

    1. Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Pine, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "We arrived around noon on Friday, and within an hour or two there were two others who arrived--but thankfully turned around to find another spot.  "

    "A ton of pull offs to choose from and far enough away from other campers. I had service there with AT&T. It gets cold- low of 30s and windy"

    2. Lower Tonto Creek

    5 Reviews
    Kohls Ranch, AZ
    11 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "My son and I left Mesa around 6:00 PM - we drove up to the campsite - got there just before dark we found an open campsite - we set up our tent started a fire and the enjoyed the evening-

    Having such"

    "I actually like Tonto Creek better as the campgrounds seem a little bit more spacious and the parking lot is huge, paved and is a dedicated space."

    3. PJ's Hangout

    2 Reviews
    Payson, AZ
    8 miles
    +1 (916) 670-8385

    4. Bearhide Group Site

    2 Reviews
    Sun Valley, AZ
    11 miles

    "The individual campsites here are not really well defined, but there are probably 5-6 fire rings spread out over a pretty wide area."

    "Bearhide is a group site located on FS Rd 405A on the way to Bear Flat day use area. I found this on the way there and intend to go with a larger group."

    5. First Crossing

    1 Review
    Sun Valley, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 474-7901

    6. Forest Road 195 Campground

    2 Reviews
    Forest Lakes, AZ
    18 miles

    "Off the beaten path. Spacious and quite with little wildlife"

    7. Alderwood Campground

    1 Review
    Young, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 467-3200

    "Exactly what we were looking for with much appreciated privacy and no one else around. Fires were allowed and there was a peaceful spring nearby."

    8. Greenland Springs

    1 Review
    Young, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 638-2443

    "Close to Grand Canyon- BUT not crowded with people. Backcountry camping."

    9. FR95 Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Pine, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 527-3600

    "Our small group (8 people/4 vehicles) had a great time at one of the secluded dispersed sites located off the forest road."

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Showing results 1-10 of 36 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Sun Valley, AZ

637 Reviews of 36 Sun Valley Campgrounds



Guide to Sun Valley

Tent camping near Sun Valley, Arizona offers a serene escape into nature, with stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Explore the Scenic Beauty of Coconino National Forest

  • Experience breathtaking views and solitude at Molitor Spot Along Rim Road, where you can soak in the stunning sunrises and starry nights.
  • Enjoy the peaceful surroundings at Bearhide Group Site, which features ample space and beautiful pine trees for shade.
  • Discover the secluded charm of Forest Road 195 Campground, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tent Campers Enjoy These Nearby Activities

Amenities for a Comfortable Stay

  • Enjoy the convenience of amenities like picnic tables and toilets at Alderwood Campground, making your camping experience more comfortable.
  • Stay connected with available drinking water and sanitary facilities at PJ's Hangout, ideal for families and groups.
  • Experience the well-maintained roads and spacious sites at Bearhide Group Site, suitable for both tents and larger vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Sun Valley, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Sun Valley, AZ is Molitor Spot Along Rim Road - Dispersed with a 5-star rating from 7 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Sun Valley, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 36 tent camping locations near Sun Valley, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.