The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App
Map showing campground location near Lakeside, Arizona
Camper submitted image from Timber Mesa TrailheadView 23 Photos
RoadsMap showing campground location near Lakeside, Arizona

Timber Mesa Trailhead

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Dispersed camping at Timber Mesa Trailhead sits within Sitgreaves National Forest outside Lakeside, with the actual campsites located not at the trailhead itself but along the road beyond it. Road conditions matter here: reviewers have noted deep ruts and washed-out gravel that can stop vehicles before reaching usable sites. Flat tent spots and a fire pit are available closer to the highway, though road noise persists into the night. Wildlife activity runs high. Campers have reported elk, coyote, and evidence of mountain lion in the area. Cell service is listed as available. Sitgreaves NF Dispersed near Timber Mesa Fire Road is a nearby alternative for those who want comparable dispersed camping on the same road system.

Suggest an Edit

RV Road Trip Guides

Route 66 Road Trip

Camping The Route 66 Road Trip

Route 66 Road Trip Segment: Amarillo, TX to Kingman

Amarillo to Kingman: 4 Day Road Trip

Build Your Trip

Plan a TripAdd

Map & DirectionsTimber Mesa Trailhead is located in Arizona near Lakeside

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

34.18549982 N
109.9665071 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 7/31/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
    Verified by 1 user
    Last on 7/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 7/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 7/31/26

Access

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

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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 Timber Mesa Trailhead needs a permit.

Try PRO for Free

Drive Time

2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Arizona Contest

Enter to Win

Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Timber Mesa Trailhead

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
34%
33%
33%
0%

3.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 8, 2026

Easy dispersed camping

There is no camping at the trailhead, but if you continue up the trails you will see sites just off the road. There were deep ruts and places where the gravel road was washed out which stopped us from going farther in. It was a wonderful uneventful stay.

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Oct. 18, 2024

Haunted with a kill site

Great fire pit and some flat spots for a tent. The highway got quieter in the middle of the night for a little while. We stayed right next to some ruins and all three of us had wild dreams about ghosts, ghost horses, and animals. The next morning we found we were only a few steps away from a mountain lion kill site! WOW! So many kinds of animals. Elk. Coyote. Cow. Sheep. You name it! It was an exciting way to spend the evening. Enjoy!

Siteon the left, after the trailhead and before the ruin
Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Jun. 25, 2024

Awesome spot

Easy to get to, close to town, clearly marked trails and roadways. Hiking views were spectacular.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Timber Mesa Trailhead by Robert H., June 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Timber Mesa Trailhead by Robert H., June 25, 2024
  • Review photo of Timber Mesa Trailhead by Robert H., June 25, 2024
  • (17) View All
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Timber Mesa trailhead located?

Timber Mesa Trailhead is located near the town of Show Low, Arizona. It's easily accessible by vehicle and situated close to town, making it convenient for day trips or overnight stays. The trailhead is well-marked with clear signage, making it simple to find even for first-time visitors. Its proximity to town provides convenient access to supplies if needed while still offering scenic natural surroundings.

What hiking trails can I access from Timber Mesa Campground?

Timber Mesa Trailhead offers access to several clearly marked trails with spectacular hiking views. The trail system is well-maintained and offers various routes suitable for different skill levels. Hikers can enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape as they explore the mesa. Trail markers are visible and easy to follow, making navigation straightforward even for those unfamiliar with the area.

What outdoor activities are available at Timber Mesa?

Timber Mesa offers hiking as the primary activity with trails providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The area features camping opportunities with fire pits and flat spots suitable for tent setup. Visitors can also explore nearby ruins, adding a historical element to the outdoor experience. The relatively quiet setting (except for some highway noise that diminishes overnight) makes it suitable for stargazing. The combination of natural scenery, historical sites, and camping amenities provides a well-rounded outdoor experience.

Keep Exploring