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Dispersed Camping

Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area is located in the Tonto National Forest, AZ. The terrain consists of forested areas with creeks and rocky landscapes. Nearby attractions include the Mogollon Rim and Woods Canyon Lake, offering opportunities for hiking and fishing.

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Location

Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

Access #1 (41 miles east of Payson): From Payson, travel 33 miles east on paved State Hwy. 260. Turn right on Young Road/Forest Road (FR) 512, and continue on for 3 miles to FR 33 (unpaved). Turn left on FR 33 and travel 1 1/2 miles to the site. Access #2 (28 miles north of Young): From Young, take State Hwy. 288/Forest Road (FR) 512 north for 23 miles to FR 33. Turn right onto FR 33. Taking FR 33, it’s about 5 miles to the site. Click here for map.

Coordinates

34.28846984 N
110.80153697 W

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Connectivity

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Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
FR738 Dispersed Camping

FR738 Dispersed Camping

19 min away

Rim Road

Rim Road

23 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • 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 Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed May. 14, 2022

Very crowded

Visited in May on a Friday afternoon, there were no spots available. All of the sites are also close together, I wouldn't consider it dispersed camping. Drove down the dirt road 20min each way and had to find somewhere else

Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Upper Canyon Creek Campground and other camping areas?

Upper Canyon Creek differs from true dispersed camping areas by having more defined, closer-together sites that create a more concentrated camping experience. Unlike many dispersed areas that offer significant privacy and distance between campers, this campground has a layout where you can expect to see and potentially hear neighboring campers. It also tends to fill up quickly during peak seasons, particularly on weekends, making advance planning essential. The campground is reached via a dirt road about 20 minutes from the main access point, which is more developed than remote backcountry sites but less convenient than roadside campgrounds.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Canyon Creek?

Despite its name suggesting dispersed camping, Upper Canyon Creek is more developed than traditional dispersed areas. The sites are relatively close together with defined camping spots rather than the spread-out arrangement typical of true dispersed camping. During peak periods, especially weekends in popular seasons like May, the area can fill up quickly. For more isolated dispersed camping options, you may need to explore further down forest roads in the vicinity.

Where is Canyon Creek Campground located in Arizona?

Upper Canyon Creek Dispersed Camping Area is located in Arizona's scenic high country. It's accessible via a dirt road that requires approximately a 20-minute drive to reach the camping area. The campground is situated in a forested area that provides a natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. For specific directions, contact the local Forest Service office as they can provide the most current access information and road conditions before your trip.