Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed

Biking and hiking trails wind through the forested terrain around Old Rim Road/Forest Road 171 Dispersed, where campers can explore the Mogollon Rim area on foot or by bike. This free dispersed camping area in Sitgreaves National Forest accommodates RVs up to 40 feet and welcomes both drive-in and walk-in campers. The rough access road requires attention but leads to scattered sites among the trees.

Multiple large group sites spread across the area, with campers noting the separated feel between spots. Wild horses roam the region, and OHV users frequent the area while generally keeping to their own zones. A camp host named Steve provides assistance despite the no-fee status. "Many large group sites with beutiful views over the mogollon rim," describes mark F., though he also mentions some visitors leave trash behind.

Afternoon rain patterns occur during summer months, and the forest setting provides natural cover. Campfires and alcohol are permitted, and the area maintains ADA accessibility. The rough road conditions mentioned by multiple reviewers require slower driving but open access to expansive forest views and the quiet that comes with getting off paved routes.

Campers wanting developed amenities can check Rim Campground nearby for a different experience.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Map & DirectionsOld Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed is located in Arizona near Forest Lakes

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

34.294815879437145 N
110.88956510959194 W

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/10/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 11 users
    Last on 6/10/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 6/10/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews5 Camper Reviews - Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed

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5 Reviews

Many campers appreciated the spacious, well-separated sites with scenic rim views and helpful host Steve. Numerous guests pointed out the private atmosphere and ample space for activities, though occasional litter issues were noted.

Reviewed Dec. 28, 2025

Old Rim Road — Where the Quiet Feels Earned

Old Rim Road felt like one of those places you don’t just visit — you experience it. The road is rough in a way that makes you slow down and pay attention, and once you do, the views hit hard: endless forest, big sky, and that deep, calm silence you don’t realize you’ve been missing. It’s the kind of drive that clears your head and reminds you why getting off the pavement is always worth it.

Site7
Month of VisitDecember
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Kevin  B., December 28, 2025
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Kevin  B., December 28, 2025
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Kevin  B., December 28, 2025
  • (8) View All
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2025

OHV area

Bunch of OHVs, but they keep to their own.

We saw wild horses and tons of space for biking. We loved it

Month of VisitApril
  • Play button icon
  • Play button icon
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Ethan B., June 12, 2025
  • (4) View All
Reviewed May. 2, 2025

Also along fr9512

Many large group sites with beutiful views over the mogollon rim. Some folks seem to leave there trash about which is unfortunate. Very separated and private feeling

Sitefr9512
Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Jul. 22, 2024

Best views and weather

It rained every afternoon we were there for 3 days, but loved every bit of it. There is a camp host here even though it's free. His name is Steve and is super nice and helpful . He told us some spots in the are alto check out. Will stay here again

Site1
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Patrick C., July 22, 2024
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Patrick C., July 22, 2024
  • Review photo of Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed by Patrick C., July 22, 2024
  • (8) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Old Rim Road and can you camp there?

Old Rim Road is a forest service road that runs along the Mogollon Rim, offering access to dispersed camping opportunities. Camping is permitted along this road, and it's completely free to stay here. The road provides access to multiple campsites that are well-separated from each other, creating a private camping experience. There's even a camp host named Steve who can provide information about the area despite it being dispersed camping. The sites accommodate various camping styles and group sizes, with many offering beautiful views over the Mogollon Rim.

Can you camp along Forest Road 171 (FR 171) on the Mogollon Rim?

Yes, camping is permitted along Forest Road 171 on the Mogollon Rim. FR 171 offers free dispersed camping with numerous sites that are well-separated from each other, providing privacy for campers. Many sites feature beautiful views overlooking the Mogollon Rim. The area has a camp host available to assist visitors and provide information about the region. While you might encounter OHV users in the area, they typically keep to themselves. The location is also great for outdoor activities like biking and wildlife viewing, including potential sightings of wild horses.

Where is the best dispersed camping along the Mogollon Rim?

The Old Rim Road/Forest Road 171 area offers some of the best dispersed camping along the Mogollon Rim. This location features numerous well-separated campsites, many with beautiful views overlooking the Mogollon Rim. The area is spacious enough to accommodate large groups while still providing privacy between sites. Visitors can enjoy wildlife sightings, including wild horses, and there's plenty of space for outdoor activities like biking. Despite being free dispersed camping, the area has a camp host who can provide helpful information about the region. The combination of scenic views, spacious sites, and natural surroundings makes this a prime dispersed camping destination on the Rim.