Accessible by rough road conditions, Sycamore Canyon Wilderness provides dispersed camping within Prescott National Forest near Clarkdale. The US Forest Service manages this drive-in and walk-in area with a 14-day maximum stay per month. Most sites include fire pits established by previous campers, and visitors can gather firewood on-site.
According to campers, the access road proves easier to navigate than other nearby forest roads while maintaining good views of the surrounding landscape. The area sits approximately 30 minutes from Sedona, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Cell service reaches the camping area, and alcohol is permitted. Campers should prepare for campgrounds around Prescott National Forest conditions and bring adequate supplies for extended stays.
Description
Established in 1935, this area contains a unique canyon-land environment. The canyon cuts through the Mogollon Rim which marks the southern edge of the Colorado Plateau. It winds for 20 miles along Sycamore Creek and at places stretches 7 miles from rim to rim. Wind and water have exposed 7 geological associations of plants and animals set in a spectacular setting of red sandstone, white limestone, and brown lava. Camping is limited by the often unreliable water sources. There are 13 maintained trails within this wilderness: #52, #54, #61, #66, #68, #117, #9017 Sycamore Canyon Wilderness on Wilderness.net The USFS Wilderness Stewardship brochure explains more about designated Wilderness and how you can become involved in helping care for this precious resource.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingSycamore Canyon Wilderness is located in Arizona
Coordinates
34.94240059 N
112.0645 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
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.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Sycamore Canyon Wilderness needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 15 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 2 hrs 40 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 3 hrs 45 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 4 hrs 15 min from Lake Havasu City, AZ







