Kaibab National Forest offers extensive pet friendly camping options near Williams, Arizona at 7,000 feet elevation. The surrounding ponderosa pine forest provides natural shade at most campsites, with summer temperatures typically ranging 70-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night. Campgrounds in this area range from fully developed sites with amenities to primitive dispersed camping on forest roads.
What to do
Fishing and paddling at lakes: White Horse Lake Campground provides access to a small fishing lake where campers can also enjoy non-motorized boats. "There's lots of shade, but not a ton of foliage between the sites for privacy. They have a little snack shack where you can but burgers and snacks, even giant snow cones. Bring a fishing pole and a kayak or raft to enjoy the lake," notes Athena B. at White Horse Lake Campground.
Stargazing at dispersed sites: The clear mountain air and distance from city lights creates exceptional night sky viewing. "Incredible star gazing at night. The water flows making it easy to sleep. Ran into a couple of deer and elk," reports Overland Pioneer at Dogtown Lake Campground. Garland Prairie Road dispersed camping offers similar experiences with "Nice pines" and "tons of privacy and quiet."
Wildlife observation: The meadows and forests around Williams host diverse wildlife. "The meadows surrounding the campground were (in early June) thick with wildflowers," writes John T. at Kaibab National Forest Kaibab Lake Campground. Another camper notes, "Osprey, raven, great blue heron and other birds near the lake."
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief from summer desert heat. "About mid 80 degree temperature. Very nice compared to the 110 deg F we had driving here from California," remarks Michael at Kaibab National Forest Kaibab Lake Campground. The pine forest provides natural cooling even during peak summer months.
Easy access to town: Most Williams camping areas offer convenient proximity to services. "Williams, AZ was in the right location for us to stop in at this park for a few days. It is nice that it is right in town so everything is super close. It made grocery runs super easy," explains Bounding Around at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer amenities beyond just camping. "Stayed in one of the cabins here with kids. Was well maintained, but overall quite dusty. Great jumping off point to get to Grand Canyon as it is a little bit North out of the town of Williams," notes Robert G. at Grand Canyon-Williams KOA.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds require driving on rough forest roads. "To get there, if you're coming from Flagstaff, don't take the exit before Williams like Google will try to take you. Those dirt roads are often flooded, especially during monsoon season where they are impassable," warns Athena B. about White Horse Lake Campground.
Train noise at some locations: Freight trains regularly pass through Williams. "That said…the BNSF train goes through all night long without regard to schedule. I'm sure it affects the whole town, just be prepared for the horn blaring and train cars click-clacking by," explains Jason M. at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park.
Limited water at dispersed sites: When choosing free camping, plan for water needs. "I camped in the dispersed camping area across the highway from the actual campground because the campground was full. Water is in short supply so if at all possible bring your own," reports Diane H. at Kaibab Lake Sites And Group Areas.
Tips for camping with families
Consider amenities for kids: Some campgrounds have better facilities for children. "We camped here with a group and reserve the entire D loop. It is a great little campground with large campsites. Many sites have two tent pads. You can't swim in the lake, but our kids love catching frogs and crawdads," shares Athena B. about White Horse Lake Campground.
Reserve in advance for summer: Peak season fills quickly, especially on weekends. "Many if not most sites in B loop are reserved for tonight and following nights," notes Michael at Kaibab Lake Campground during September, which is typically less crowded than summer months.
Dog-friendly options with limits: While most sites allow pets, restrictions exist. "There is no dog park but there is a walk around path. There are a lot of weeds around the perimeter," warns Ed M. at Railside RV Ranch, which is important to know for pet friendly camping near Williams.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. "The pavement on which the RV was leveled was pretty much level so we didn't need to make any adjustments," notes Michael A. at Grand Canyon Railway RV Park, which is unusual as many report needing leveling blocks.
Limited hookups at forest sites: Most forest service campgrounds lack electric connections. "This is a nice dry campground. There is drinking water available, as well as vault toilets," explains Shuree F. about Kaibab National Forest Kaibab Lake Campground. For full hookups, private campgrounds in town are the best option.
Large rig accessibility: Some dispersed sites can accommodate larger RVs. "The dirt road in is good, a little washboard, but overall wide and solid. There are many spots to camp and fit anything from tents to 28-30 foot travel trailers/5th wheels and large diesel pushers," shares George B. about Dogtown Lake Campground.
