Dispersed camping options near Young, Arizona provide respite from summer heat with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 7,000 feet across the Mogollon Rim region. The area sits at the intersection of Tonto and Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, creating diverse terrain with pine forests in higher elevations transitioning to juniper and scrub oak at lower elevations. Road conditions to dispersed sites vary significantly during monsoon season from July through September, with many forest roads becoming difficult to navigate after rainfall.
What to do
Hike to geological features: At Sinkhole Campground, campers can access the namesake trail directly from camp. "This is a very nice forest camp. Sites are great, semi private. Lake is beautiful, store available," mentions one camper. The sinkhole trail is approximately 2 miles round trip, offering moderate hiking suitable for most skill levels.
Fish stocked lakes: Aspen Campground provides access to prime fishing opportunities. "The trout fishing here is top notch. The lake is stocked during the summer almost everyweek but the hold overs in the spring can get pretty huge!" A good strategy is to arrive mid-week when waters are less crowded with fellow anglers.
Watch wildlife: Morning and evening wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the area. "Elk wander through the campgrounds in early mornings and evenings. Beautiful place," notes a visitor to the region. Bring binoculars and maintain quiet during dawn and dusk hours for best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Temperature relief: Canyon Point Campground offers significantly cooler temperatures compared to lower elevations. "Always a great place to stay in the summer. Usually about 25 degrees cooler in then Phoenix. Close to lakes and creeks along with hiking trails," shares one camper. This temperature difference makes it particularly popular during hot summer months.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies in this region create exceptional stargazing conditions. "The stars at night were unbelievable. The sites are large with grill, fire pit, and barbecue," reports a visitor to Ponderosa Campground. Light pollution is minimal throughout the area, particularly during weeknights when fewer campers occupy the forests.
Uncrowded campsites: During weekdays, many campgrounds remain sparsely populated. "We were there during the week so there were very few others there. Camp hosts were amazing, very helpful. It rained and stormed each day. There were running streams all around, but no mud. Beautiful forest, lots of hiking or strolling paths." Arriving Sunday through Wednesday typically provides the best opportunity for quiet camping experiences.
What you should know
Water availability fluctuates: Water systems occasionally experience issues at established campgrounds. "Normally they have water but when I was there the water pump was broken so I had to drive to another campground to get water," reports a camper at Christopher Creek Campground. Always bring extra water containers and fill them when possible.
Road conditions vary drastically: Forest roads leading to dispersed camping areas require careful navigation. "It is about 8 miles down a fairly well kept dirt road but with the switchbacks and hills it takes about 30 mins from highway 260. About halfway in there is no cell service." Four-wheel drive vehicles provide the safest access during wet conditions.
Bear safety required: Food storage protocols must be followed in all camping areas. "They have bear safes for your food if you are rent camping, and plenty of back roads to bike ride or hike," notes one visitor. Bear-proof containers or proper vehicle storage is essential throughout the region, with penalties possible for improper food storage.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible creek exploration: Kids enjoy wading and exploring creek areas throughout the region. At Houston Mesa Campground, families find gentle water features nearby. "We've camped at Houston Mesa Campground several times and consistently have a fantastic experience. We love the ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out for a relaxing stay. Our kids adore playing in the dirt and exploring the trees."
Wildlife spotting games: Create wildlife observation activities for children during mornings and evenings. "I've been to this area a lot of times as a kid and decided to take my kid up here. It still a great area. Its quiet and very clean." Wildlife sightings commonly include deer, elk, squirrels, and various bird species throughout the region.
Campfire alternatives: During fire restrictions (common from May through September), bring alternative evening entertainment. "Love Christopher Creek as always... no fires allowed so it was pretty quiet which was nice." Card games, stargazing guides, or battery-powered lanterns provide nighttime activities when campfires are prohibited.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds in the area provide minimal RV amenities. "Clean, very widely dispersed camp sites (lots of social distancing trees) especially in loop B (no electricity hookup); loop A sites a little closer but still great and most sites have electricity. Double lane dump station but no full hookups." Plan to dry camp at most sites.
Site selection for solar needs: Tree cover creates challenges for solar power users. "We run on solar, so found one of the only spots with enough sun to keep us charged up." When making reservations, request sites with southern exposure if relying on solar power, or bring alternative power sources.
Size limitations: Several campgrounds restrict larger RVs. "Sites well spaced out, friendly hosts, close enough to the lake and the dump out ($7), quiet. The big plus for us was the spacing between the sites and the quiet nature of the camp." Most established campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 32 feet, with some sites limited to 22 feet or smaller.
