The Coconino National Forest waives recreation pass fees to celebrate holidays. It's as if Mother Nature painted this scenery to put humans in awe of her beauty. Jan 12, 2023. Fossil Creek is the centerpiece of this oasis, appearing from the bottom of a 1,600 foot canyon as if by magic. Share sensitive information only Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through Disperse use to prevent the creation of campsites and trails. Contact Us. This mountain is sacred to the native peoples that live in the area and its soaring profile set against a blue Arizona sky serves as a source of awe to contemporary residents and visitors. The creek is bordered with paths that lead along its picturesque course, offering great bird watching and fishing. No additional parking available. Fax: (928) 527-3620 Covering more than 1.8 million acres, Coconino National Forest stretches from the Verde River near Sedona at its southern border to Sunset Crater National Monument, north of Flagstaff. This article about Coconino National Forest camping is brought to you by Raw Rev. Supervisor's Office During fire restrictions, campfires, fires, and charcoal fires are not permitted in dispersed camping areas. Cave Springs Campground Image from The Dyrt camper Erin T. Cave Springs Campground is 20 minutes north of Sedona, in Oak Creek Canyon. Youre near three separate lakes, all stocked with trout, bass, and channel catfish. Schnebly Hill Road, Coconino National Forest, AZ home / Portfolio / Arizona Free Camping 20 Minutes South of Flagstaff, AZ Also known as Forest Road 153 (FR153), Schnebly Hill Road is a 12-mile dirt road connecting Arizona's I-17 at Munds Park with SH-89A in Sedona. Almost 300 routes for a practically unlimited climbing fix. Its just south of Slide Rock State Park, a popular swimming area to escape the summer heat. Pack it in, pack it out. Nearby Upper and Lower Lake Mary, Ashurst, Marshall and Kinnikinick Lakes serve as a recreational focus for this campground. Grab 49 of your closest pals and head out to the Moqui Group Campground for a little wildlife viewing, smores cooking, and star gazing. Campers can also explore the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest, which boasts a spectacular variety of scenery and outdoor activities. Take breaks and camp away from trails and other visitors. Coconino Rim Rd. Anglers have the convenience of creekside campsites, where they can cast a line for trout. It is an approximately 30 minute drive. Learn more about gear rental options for your trip. An official website of the Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely. Dropping as much as 2,000 feet in some areas, the Rim provides some of the most far-reaching scenery in Arizona. Especially if youre the type whos into planning trips with a bit more certainty (we get it! The Flagstaff Ranger District encompasses nearly 850,000 acres of National Forest lands around the Flagstaff area, from Mormon Lake and Anderson Mesa to north of the San Francisco Peaks. Heading to Sedona or Oak Creek Canyon for to hike, bike, or take the horse out for a ride? The lake is also a sought-after spot for windsurfing and spring waterfowl migrations. Cave Springs is a popular destination, so be sure to reserve your spot early. Ways to get even closer to all this scenery includes: hiking, horseback riding, taking a scenic drive, sliding down a natural waterslide, picnicking, camping, taking lots of photos and fishing in Oak Creek. Control pets at all times, or leave them at home. Turn right (north) onto Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon and travel 6 miles to the campground. Sort By. Office: (928) 527-3600 Youre also just down the road from Slide Rock State Park, where youll find some of the best swimming in the area. Facilities: Cave Spring is a large campground with 84 campsites, including one tent-only site. Campsites are clean and some offer semi-privacy. The remains of ancient wetlands, these crimson cliffs have been carved by the forces of the desert into one of nature's most magnificent masterpieces. Ashurst Lake is known for its fishing, as its stocked with trout, bass, and channel catfish, even in dry months. In fact, this area is so unique, that much of it has been protected in two national monuments. Their dependable gear will keep you dry and warm on your, 2022 The Dyrt, Inc | All rights reserved, 7 Coconino National Forest Camping Spots to See the Best of Arizona, Yosemite Camping Reservations: Set Up Cancellation Text Notifications, 6 Private Campgrounds to Book When Your Favorite National Parks are Full. Families love driving down the road to nearby Slide Rock State Park, one of Arizona's most popular swimming spots, or trying out several nearby hiking trails. Coin-operated showers, drinking water and vault restrooms are provided for convenience. Supervisor's Office LockA locked padlock Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Bald eagles and ospreys live and hunt around the lakes. Be courteous. Some of these trails follow historic routes early Oak Creek Canyon settlers used to access the top of the plateau in the days before the road was built. Click image to view more pictures Campground Overview: Blue Ridge Campground is located on the Coconino National Forest, about 10 miles north of Blue Ridge Reservoir, as the crow flies.It is about 10 miles by road. Colorful songbirds add flashes of brilliance to the trees. There are no facilities, so be prepared for that! 1824 S. Thompson St. The depth of the Canyon ranges from 800 to 2000 feet, with trails providing access from the Canyons bottom up to the 6500-foot eastern rim and 7200-foot western rim. Its motto is "Caring for the land and serving people." The service manages 154 forests and 20 grasslands. M-F 8 a.m. - 4p.m. https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/coconino/recreation/camping-cabins. Use a map and compass to eliminate the use of marking paint, rock cairns or flagging. Fish Your National Forests: This site can be accessed by passenger car. ) or https:// means you've safely ( This massive group camping area is ready to host your next big bash. Clear Creek Campgroundis open year-round. Today, all thats left of the resort are the primitive pools overlooking the Verde River. Office: (928) 527-3600 It is your next destination in the outdoors. Public Land RV Park Overnight RV Parking Dump Stations Price. United States government. The area also boasts some excellent cross-country skiing in good snow years. Slide Rock State Parkis only a short drive away. website belongs to an official government organization in the Discount cards are not accepted for second vehicle fees. Its a great alternative to Cave Springs, featuring shaded sites for tents and RVs. Six maps show detailed trails and recreation site information forOak Creek Canyon and the Red Rock Country around Sedona. Large herds of elk roam the forests and edgelands. Learn how the Coconino National Forest cares for the land including the Forest Plan,projects, the Four Forest Restoration Initiative, and the Fossil Creek Comprehensive River Management Plan (CRMP). website belongs to an official government organization in the Know the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit. From Phoenix, take I-17 north to Exit 298 for Highway 179. Office: (928) 527-3600 new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, No matter what you do in Red Rock Country, you're always sightseeing. Set up camp among the warm yellows of aspens with a backdrop of the breathtaking San Francisco Peaks, and youll feel like you mightve just found paradise. Pine Flat is home to towering ponderosa pines, miles of hiking trails, and some great fishing. Keep fires small. Fish available include trout and native trout. Elks Group Campground. Lets just say, dispersed camping is allowed but there are NO amenities. Almost in the shadow of the San Francisco Mountains, Bonito Campground is an excellent choice as a base camp whether exploring the community of Flagstaff, visiting neighboring national monuments . A map of the northern half of the Flagstaff Ranger District. It extends across the entire forest and provides excellent views within Plateau Country and Desert Canyon Country as well. Map Information. Types of fishing available include wade, shore, fly, and spin. Many forest roads that lead to dispersed campsitesmay be closed during seasonal road closures, so please check the ForestRoad Status web page for more information about the status of forest roads in each District. . Not only do you get to camp among this awe-inspiring landscape, but you also have hiking and fishing opportunities awaitin. Ashurst is known for its year-round fishing opportunities, so cast a line in the beautiful blue lake and fish for trout or catfish. Note the contrast between the red rocks and the green Ponderosa pine forests. This long, narrow reservoir is especially popular with power boaters and water skiers because there is no motor size limit on it. Ashurst Lake Campground offers campsites right on the lake, sure to please campers of all sorts. This was too full the first time we tried to visit so you will want to make reservations! An official website of the Contact Us Coconino National Forest Recreation Near Sedona, Arizona (277) Some Coverage Reservation Rules Manzanita Campground is a small, year-round, tent-only facility with campsites that fill up very quickly. Amazing sight to see! Scatter strained dishwater. You can experience red stone cliffs, pristine lakes, and unique formations without the crowds of a national park. The fire pit comes with a grill which was very convenient for cooking, and the bathrooms are well-maintained. At-a-Glance Camping Guides by District Each site has lots of room! Fax: (928) 527-3620 Share sensitive information only Two vehicles per campsite. Fossil Creek, whose waters were diverted for nearly a 100 years to generate electricity now flows free as an officially designated Wild & Scenic River. The pines are thick until they give way to snow-capped tops, even in summer. Forest Main Page CAMPGROUND LOOKUP TABLE. Category Filters. A fee of $10 per night will be collected at the campground for the second vehicle. Protect riparian areas by camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams. You have immediate access to Oak Creek, where you can fish for trout or dip your toes into the cool water. Fire restrictions | Where can I have a campfire? No worriesClear Creek offers both regular and group campsites, so everyone can get in on the beauty of this picturesque spot in Coconino. Visit the Coconino National Forest camping website for more information. Office: (928) 527-3600 Coconino National Forest - Camping & Cabins Camping & Cabins Choose from the following to find a site: Cabin Rentals Campground Camping Dispersed Camping Group Camping NOTE: Senior and Access Interagency Passes are accepted for a 50% discount on single-site camping fees (except at Arizona Nordic Village). Views stretch from its rocky precipice to Four Peaks of the Mazatzals northeast of Phoenix. website belongs to an official government organization in the These beautiful springs are about a mile from the dispersed camping area. Good campsites are found, not made. Bell Trail offers scenic footpaths to Wet Beaver Creek and connections to the Apache Maid and White Mesa Trails. Love to visit again. J K. Pine Flat Campground is a smaller campground, right next to Cave Springs. We plan on returning soon! Charm M. Coconino National Forest is known for its excellent dispersed camping areas. connected to the .gov website. Despite the name, Long Valley Work Center is your groups happy place for fun in the Arizona sun, and the only work youll be doing is grilling up a stellar BBQ and crackin open your ice cold refreshments. M-F 8 a.m. - 4p.m. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/coconino/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=55268&actid=29, Reservations must be made 3 days ahead of arrival. Prepare for extreme weather, hazards, and emergencies. on official, secure websites. And whi Tennis Has Met Its Match: Play Pickleball at These 45 RV Campgrounds, 18 Campgrounds Where You Can Stay Cool This Summer. Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans, or mound fires. When you visit the top of Arizona, don't forget your skis! There are 4,300 campgrounds within these millions of acres. Clothing is optional, but fun and relaxation, thats mandato Read more Knoll Lake Campground offers some stellar campsites in Coconino with loads to do. Amenities include fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Visitors also enjoy wildlife viewing and picnicking. Williams Deer farm Gateway to the Grand Canyon. connected to the .gov website. This rolling highland is a land of ponderosa pine forests and pinyon/juniper woodlands clustered around broad prairies and small lakes. No horses or off-road vehicles allowed; motorbikes may only be used for entering and exiting the campground, No portable showers or toilets allowed in campground, No cutting, chopping or splitting wood within the campground. Look at our first week in Coconino National Forest and talk about some of our takes on the dispersed camping.Thanks for looking!#rvlife #vanlife #boondoc. Campground was beautiful, spacious sites with nice level paved parking pad and tent pad. Never feed animals. Preserve the past: examine, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts. Look no further. Its a very short drive to Slide Rock State. Flagstaff Ranger District, extends from north of the Peaks to the south. Theres something for everyone at this beautiful lake. Pine Flat is a great spot to enjoy Oak Creek Canyon and the greater wilderness area. Youre also close to the Mogollon Rim, a 2,000 foot cliff at the edge of the Colorado Plateau. There are several other lakes nearby, including Marshall, Ashurst, and Mormon lakes. Staying in Pine Flat also puts you right next to Oak Creek and its abundant fish. Yield to other users on the trail. The 2023 Guide to State Park Camping Reservations in All 50 States. Be aware extreme winter weather or flooding risks can necessitate the closure of forest roadsat different times of the year. This mountain is sacred to the native peoples that live in the area and its soaring profile set against a blue Arizona sky serves as a source of awe to contemporary residents and visitors. This time, the fault caused the eastern rim of the Canyon to drop around 700 feet lower than the western rim. The campground is nestled in a forested canyon near the town of Sedona, Arizona, and its famous red rock cliffs. This beautiful spot is close to hiking trails, premium rock climbing, and gorgeous views. Cave Springs is a mile south (downstream) of Pine Flat Campground. The area also boasts some excellent cross-country skiing in good snow years. United States. As the travel season begins to ramp up, national parks across the U.S. prepare for yet another bu Youve dewinterized your rig and are ready to hit the road for some early season camping. This is more than a "backyard" forest. The Red Rock District includes some 550,000 acres of magnificent splendor. Hiking, sightseeing, wildlife watching and skiing are the predominant recreation activities enjoyed in this land of mountains, forests and lava flows. All are stocked with fish including trout, bass and channel catfish. Their range of protein bars are delicious whether youre on the trail or hanging around the campfire. Oak Creek Canyon offers hiking, picnicking, camping, fishing, swimming, and endless vistas of colorful, soaring cliffs. Are you looking for the best Coconino National Forest camping spots? Notable dispersed camping spots include FR 222 Dispersed, Pumphouse Wash (FR 237) Dispersed, and Coconino National Forest Road 525 Dispersed. Views from the summit of the San Francisco Peaks stretch to the Grand Canyon's North Rim over eighty miles away. Check-in time is 2:00 p.m.; check-out time is 11:00 a.m. Motorbikes may only be used for entering or leaving campsite, Water available only for registered campers, No amplified music or public address systems allowed. Feeding wildlife damages their health, alters natural behaviors, and exposes them to predators and other dangers. Recreation.gov! Pronghorn antelope graze the prairies. The Best Coconino National Forest Camping 1. Want more? (Update: reports of "no camping" signs have gone up in this area. Located just south of the Mogollon Rim, sits Apache Maid Cabin, a small primitive cabin. Knoll Lake Campground was a great spot for Me, my fianc, our two friends and two dogs. For hand and dishwashing, not tank fill-up. A few more millions of years passed, and a canyon had formed. 1824 S. Thompson St. Get the scoop on the Red Rock Ranger District! Coconino NationalForest No matter what you do in Red Rock Country, you're always sightseeing. 10 LGBTQ+-Friendly Campgrounds Throughout the U.S. Video: 5 Amazing Places to Camp for Free in the Western U.S. How to Visit White Sands National Park and Where to Camp, 5 National Park Sites Where You Can Boondock (or Find Boondocking Closeby), How to Visit Cibola National Forest and Where to Camp, How to Visit the Gila National Forest, Gila Wilderness, and Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument by RV, 7 Best National Forests for Spring Camping, How to Visit Prescott National Forest by RV and Where to Camp, Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks and Prehistoric Trackways National Monuments by RV, 7 States Where You Can Find Epic Springtime Glamping. Arizona's largest natural lake, Mormon Lake, is located here. 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Water skiers because there is no motor size limit on it maps show detailed trails and other dangers wildlife... Can also explore the 1.8 million-acre Coconino National Forest camping website for information! Foot cliff at the campground dispersed, Pumphouse Wash ( FR 237 ) dispersed, and Mormon lakes a Canyon... Enjoy Oak Creek Canyon for to hike, bike, or take the horse out a. District includes some 550,000 acres of magnificent splendor and hunt around the.... Dispersed camping areas get it a fee of $ 10 per night will be collected at the of... The 2023 Guide to State Park, a popular destination, so everyone can get in on the or! Take breaks and camp away from trails and coconino national forest camping site information forOak Creek and... Of hiking trails, and unique formations without the crowds of a 1,600 Canyon... Quiet inner caldera are higher than any other mountain in the Discount cards are not permitted in dispersed camping.!