12 Prescott National Forest Boondocking Locations: If you’re looking to boondock near Prescott National Forest, you’ve got a handful of options for dispersed camping. The forest has designated dispersed camping sites where you can stay up to 7 or 14 days depending on the area—plenty of time to soak up some remote, free camping, minus the usual campground frills.
Popular spots like the Prescott Basin and Senator Highway let you boondock with few restrictions, so you can really get away from the crowds. It’s worth getting familiar with the rules and boundaries to make sure you pick a spot that fits your plans (and doesn’t get you in trouble).
You can wander these dispersed camping areas and really unplug in Prescott National Forest’s beautiful landscapes. Planning out your stay—where, how long, and what’s allowed—makes the whole experience smoother. If you want the nitty-gritty on designated dispersed camping, check out Prescott Basin dispersed camping information.
Description And Information About This Location
Prescott National Forest sprawls across central Arizona, mixing forests, mountains, and even some desert terrain. Mingus Mountain stands out for boondocking—it’s rugged, scenic, and a bit wild. Camp near Lynx Lake, and you’re close to some solid fishing and hiking. The forest has several wilderness pockets where you can actually find some peace and quiet.
Boondocking here means you’re off-grid—no hookups, no marked sites. You have to stick to designated dispersed areas, and most spots limit you to 7 days in a 30-day window, so plan accordingly.
Wildlife is everywhere. You might spot deer, birds, or little critters nosing around. Store your food well unless you want some unexpected visitors.
A few key things to keep in mind:
- Only camp in designated spots
- 7-day stay limit per 30-day period
- Open year-round in most places
- Close to lakes and trails
- Wildlife is active—don’t get careless
For all the fine print, check Prescott National Forest camping guidelines at Prescott National Forest Camping & Cabins.
Location And Access
Prescott National Forest sits just outside Prescott, Arizona, and getting there’s pretty straightforward with several highways and roads leading in. Most boondocking happens in the Prescott Basin, a big stretch of mixed land—some developed, most not. You’ll drive on forest service roads to reach many sites, but be ready for some rough, unpaved patches.
Check out these common routes:
- Senator Highway has several dispersed camping options
- Forest Development Road 373 near Thumb Butte Loop is a good bet
- Prescott Basin roads get you to quieter, more remote sites
Elevation runs around 5,500 to 6,000 feet, so weather and road conditions can shift fast. Some roads really need a high-clearance vehicle. Definitely check current road conditions before you head out, especially after storms. A detailed map or GPS helps a lot since many dispersed sites aren’t well-marked. For more on access points, browse the Prescott National Forest camping options or look up visitor-rated sites near Prescott on The Dyrt.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
Senator Highway’s a solid starting point for reaching boondocking areas in Prescott National Forest. It leads to several designated dispersed sites outside the Prescott Basin, about a half-hour from Prescott. Most of the drive’s paved, but you’ll hit some dirt or gravel if you want to get off the beaten path. Regular cars can reach many camping spots, but if you’re venturing further, a high-clearance vehicle is a good idea. Watch for signs marking designated dispersed sites—don’t just pull off anywhere.
When you get there, expect a natural setting—no water, restrooms, or trash bins. Bring everything you need: water, food, and gear to pack out your own trash. Fire restrictions change often, so check before lighting up. Stay limits matter. Dispersed camping near Senator Highway lets you stay up to 14 days in a 30-day period. Stick to those limits so everyone gets a fair shot at camping.
What to bring:
- Water and food
- Camping gear
- Fire tools (if allowed)
- Trash bags
- Map or GPS
For maps and more details, check the Senator Highway Designated Dispersed Campsites page.
Amenities And Activities
Boondocking or dispersed camping in Prescott National Forest? Amenities are sparse. No running water, no toilets, no hookups. Bring your own water and supplies—it’s all on you. A few developed campgrounds nearby (like White Spar) offer picnic tables, fire rings, and sometimes water, but don’t count on it everywhere. If you make a fire, keep it in a grill or steel ring, and follow the rules.
The forest sticks to a 7-day stay limit in dispersed camping areas within 30 days. That’s to keep things natural and fair. There’s a lot to do outdoors around Prescott. Hiking, biking, checking out the lakes, fishing, and just watching wildlife—it’s all there. Boondocking usually means more solitude and fewer people, but you’ll probably have no cell service and some roads can get sketchy.
Here’s what you’ll want to pack:
- Water and food
- Portable toilet or waste bags
- Firewood or a camp stove
- Navigation tools (maps or GPS)
For more info on camping and site options, head to Prescott National Forest’s camping page.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
Camping in Prescott National Forest means following some rules. You have to camp at designated dispersed campsites or in developed campgrounds—no random pull-offs. Your stay is capped at 14 days within any 30-day period. Some spots, like Copper Basin Road, limit you to 7 days in 30 days.
Campfires are only okay at designated sites, and fire restrictions pop up during dry spells. Always check local fire rules before lighting up, and use existing fire rings if you’re allowed to burn.
A lot of dispersed camping spots need high-clearance vehicles. Roads can get rough. Plan for that, and you’ll have a much better time. Keep your campsite clean and pack out all your trash. Don’t hack up trees or trample plants. Use portable toilets or provided restrooms when you can.
For more on the rules, check Prescott Basin’s designated dispersed camping info or the general Prescott National Forest camping rules.
Leave No Trace
Camping in Prescott National Forest? Leave No Trace isn’t just a suggestion—it’s the deal. Always pack out all your trash—food scraps, wrappers, even those tiny bits you think don’t matter. Leaving anything behind messes with wildlife and ruins the place for everyone else.
If you make a fire, use established fire rings and make sure it’s out cold before you leave. Don’t cut trees or yank up plants for firewood.
Stick to designated dispersed sites and don’t create new fire rings or campsites. That keeps the forest healthier and prevents erosion. Watc wildlife from a distance. Don’t feed or chase animals. Lock up your food and trash so you don’t end up with furry (or feathery) visitors.
Quick reminders:
- Pack out all trash and food
- Use existing fire rings, put fires out cold
- Camp only in designated dispersed spots
- Respect wildlife—no feeding, no chasing
Following these basics keeps Prescott National Forest beautiful for you and everyone after you. More on best camping practices at Prescott National Forest dispersed camping guidelines.
Helpful Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Arizona Park Service
Arizona Trust
Arizona Fish and Game
Prescott National Forest Boondocking Locations
Free Camping Locations
Mayer Camp Area – Arizona Boondocking
34.37066, -112.27099
Situated near the small town of Mayer, Arizona, the Mayer Camp Area offers a rustic and peaceful dispersed camping experience amid the natural beauty of the Prescott National Forest. This location features several clearings surrounded by ponderosa pine and mixed desert vegetation, giving campers a chance to connect with nature in a quiet setting. There are no developed amenities such as water, restrooms, or hookups, so visitors should come prepared for self-sufficient camping. The area is ideal for tents, truck campers, and smaller RVs that can navigate the dirt forest roads. Campfires may be allowed depending on local fire restrictions, so checking current conditions before your visit is important.
Things to Do:
Campers can explore nearby hiking trails in the Prescott National Forest, where scenic views and wildlife are abundant. The historic town of Mayer offers local shops and dining options within a short drive. Nearby attractions include the Agua Fria National Monument, which features desert landscapes and archaeological sites, providing additional opportunities for day trips and exploration.
Directions:
From Mayer, take Forest Road 89A north for several miles. Turn onto Forest Road 113 and continue for about two miles. Dispersed camping is available along this road in established clearings; please camp only in these designated spots to protect the environment.
Vehicle Access:
The roads are unpaved dirt and gravel, typically accessible to most trucks and smaller RVs. Larger rigs may encounter tight turns and limited turnaround areas. High clearance vehicles are recommended, especially after rain or wet weather.
Bannie Mine – Prescott Boondocking
34.485176, -112.371932
The Bannie Mine dispersed camping area is located near Prescott, Arizona, offering a quiet retreat in a pine and juniper forest environment. This spot is favored for its proximity to historic mining ruins and natural surroundings. It provides several open sites without developed amenities such as water or restrooms, making it important for campers to be self-sufficient. The location is suitable for tents, campers, and trucks but may have limited space for larger RVs. Campfires might be permitted based on seasonal fire regulations, so checking local restrictions is advised before camping.
Things to Do:
Nearby hiking trails provide opportunities for exploration, and visitors interested in history can check out old mining structures in the area. Prescott city is a short drive away, offering restaurants, shops, and additional recreational options such as mountain biking and fishing in nearby lakes.
Directions:
From Prescott, take State Route 69 north toward Prescott Valley. Turn onto Forest Road 36 and follow it to the Bannie Mine area. Dispersed camping is available near old mine roads in clearings along this forest road. Campers should use established spots to avoid environmental damage.
Vehicle Access:
The access roads are dirt and gravel and generally suitable for most vehicles, including pickup trucks and small RVs. Larger motorhomes may face challenges due to narrow roadways and uneven terrain. High clearance is recommended during wet conditions.
Enchanted Forest Trail Boondocking
34.495525, -112.377419
Located near the popular Enchanted Forest Trail outside Prescott, Arizona, this dispersed camping area provides a quiet spot surrounded by pine forests. The site offers several natural clearings for camping without any formal amenities. Visitors should come prepared with their own water, food, and waste disposal supplies. The natural environment features ponderosa pines, junipers, and diverse wildlife, making it an attractive location for campers seeking solitude and outdoor activities.
Things to Do:
The Enchanted Forest Trail is a well-known hiking route offering scenic views and unique forest landscapes. Additionally, Prescott National Forest has many other trails for hiking and mountain biking. Birdwatching and nature photography are popular in this region, and Prescott city is nearby for supplies and dining.
Directions:
From Prescott, travel west on Senator Highway. Turn onto Forest Road 36 and continue to the Enchanted Forest Trailhead. Dispersed camping can be found in clearings along nearby forest roads. Campers should stay on established sites to minimize environmental impact.
Vehicle Access:
Forest roads leading to this area are mostly dirt and gravel, accessible by passenger vehicles, trucks, and small RVs. Larger rigs should be cautious due to narrow roads and limited turnaround spots. High clearance is beneficial, especially after rain.
Boondocking Senator Highway Prescott
34.452058, -112.437638
This dispersed camping site lies along Senator Highway, just west of Prescott, Arizona, in a forested area characterized by pine and juniper trees. The site offers open spaces without developed amenities and is frequented by campers seeking a quiet place to stay near Prescott. Fire regulations should be checked before campfires are lit, as seasonal restrictions may apply. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Things to Do:
The nearby Prescott National Forest offers extensive hiking trails, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also take short trips into Prescott for local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy horseback riding or exploring additional forest roads in the area.
Directions:
From Prescott, take Senator Highway west. Dispersed camping areas are accessible along the highway and adjacent forest roads. Campers should select established campsites and avoid blocking roads or creating new sites.
Vehicle Access:
The dirt roads are generally suitable for passenger vehicles, trucks, and small RVs. Larger motorhomes may find some sections difficult to navigate due to tight curves and narrow roads. High clearance vehicles are recommended in poor weather.
Prescott Basin – Big Pine Rd – AZ BD
34.436396, -112.447845
Located in the Prescott Basin near Big Pine Road, this dispersed camping area offers several clearings surrounded by pine and juniper forests. The area provides a primitive camping experience without developed amenities such as water, restrooms, or electrical hookups. Campers should come prepared for self-sufficient camping and use established campsites to protect the environment. The site is suitable for tents, truck campers, and smaller RVs.
Things to Do:
Campers can enjoy hiking on local Prescott National Forest trails, wildlife viewing, and fishing in nearby creeks and lakes. The nearby city of Prescott offers cultural and recreational activities, including museums, dining, and shopping. Photography and nature observation are popular pastimes here.
Directions:
From Prescott, take Highway 69 north, then turn west onto Big Pine Road. Follow this road to locate dispersed camping spots in forest clearings. Campers should avoid creating new campsites to help preserve the landscape.
Vehicle Access:
The access roads are primarily dirt and gravel, suitable for trucks and small to mid-sized RVs. Larger rigs may find navigation challenging due to road conditions and limited space for turning around. High clearance vehicles are advised during wet weather.
Prescott Basin – Groom Creek Cutoff Rd – AZ BD
34.457994, -112.485076
Situated off Forest Road 101, known locally as Groom Creek Cutoff Road, within Prescott National Forest, this boondocking area provides campers with dispersed camping opportunities in a tranquil, forested environment. The site offers several clearings among ponderosa pines and oak trees, some of which may have remnants of fire rings from previous visitors. There are no formal amenities such as restrooms, water, or trash disposal, so visitors must come prepared for primitive camping and pack out all their waste. This area is popular with campers seeking a quiet and natural setting away from crowded campgrounds.
Things to Do:
The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing in the Prescott Basin. Nearby trails provide scenic routes through pine forests and rugged terrain. The cooler elevation compared to surrounding deserts makes it a comfortable location during the warmer months. Visitors can explore nearby Prescott city, which offers dining, shopping, and historical sites. Stargazing is also a popular activity here due to low light pollution.
Directions:
From Prescott, take Senator Highway (Forest Road 52) west for approximately 10 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 101 (Groom Creek Cutoff Road). Continue along this unpaved road for about 2 miles, looking for suitable clearings to camp on either side of the road.
Vehicle Access:
The dirt road is generally accessible to most passenger vehicles, SUVs, and smaller RVs. Larger RVs and trailers may find the narrow road and limited turnaround spots challenging, especially after rain when the road can become muddy and rough.
Prescott Basin – Maripai Rd – AZ BD
34.486444, -112.485093
Situated off Maripai Road in the Prescott Basin area, this dispersed camping spot offers a natural setting surrounded by pinyon pine and juniper trees. The site features several open areas suitable for camping without formal amenities such as water or restrooms. Campers appreciate the quiet environment and easy access to nearby trails and natural scenery. This location provides an excellent option for those seeking a rustic camping experience close to Prescott’s outdoor recreation.
Things to Do:
The area is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore nearby Prescott National Forest trails or take day trips into the city of Prescott for local shops and dining. The Lynx Lake Recreation Area, about 15 miles away, offers additional opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Directions:
From Prescott, take Arizona State Route 69 north toward Dewey-Humboldt. Turn west onto Maripai Road and follow it approximately 3 miles. Look for suitable dispersed camping spots along the road, keeping to established clearings to minimize environmental impact.
Vehicle Access:
The roads are mostly well-maintained dirt or gravel, accessible to most vehicles including small to mid-sized RVs and trucks. Large rigs may find some spots challenging due to narrow road sections and limited turnaround areas. High clearance vehicles are recommended during wet conditions.
Copper Basin – Prescott Boondocking
34.499059, -112.540558
Located in the Copper Basin area near Prescott, this boondocking site offers dispersed camping amid pine and oak woodlands. The area features a variety of open spots for tent camping and smaller RVs, without developed facilities. It is known for its peaceful surroundings and scenic mountain views, making it a preferred site for campers looking to immerse themselves in nature close to Prescott.
Things to Do:
Campers can hike numerous nearby trails within the Prescott National Forest, enjoy birdwatching, and explore local historical mining sites. The town of Prescott offers cultural attractions, restaurants, and shopping within a short drive.
Directions:
From Prescott, head west on State Route 69 toward Mayer. Turn onto Forest Road 62 and continue for about 4 miles. Dispersed camping areas are available along this route; watch for clearings where camping is permitted.
Vehicle Access:
The dirt roads are generally passable for most vehicles, including small RVs and trucks. Larger vehicles should exercise caution due to some narrow sections and uneven terrain. A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be helpful after heavy rains.
Boondocking Thumb Butte Loop Prescott
34.534459, -112.548964
Situated near Thumb Butte outside Prescott, this dispersed camping location offers access to a natural forest environment with ponderosa pines and juniper trees. It provides open camping spaces without amenities, favored by campers seeking quiet and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities in Prescott National Forest.
Things to Do:
The area is popular for hiking and mountain biking on nearby trails, including the Thumb Butte Trail which offers panoramic views of Prescott. Wildlife viewing and photography are common activities. Visitors can also explore downtown Prescott, known for its historic courthouse and local events.
Directions:
From Prescott, take Thumb Butte Road heading west. Follow signs to the Thumb Butte Trailhead, then continue on Forest Service roads that circle the butte. Dispersed camping is available in designated areas along the loop road; campers should use existing clearings.
Vehicle Access:
Roads are dirt and gravel, suitable for passenger vehicles, trucks, and smaller RVs. Larger trailers or motorhomes may have difficulty maneuvering due to narrow roads and limited space. High clearance is recommended for wet or rough conditions.
FR 702 near Yolo Ranch Boondocking
34.785114, -112.960878
Located off Forest Road 702 near Yolo Ranch, this boondocking area offers a remote camping experience surrounded by desert scrub and juniper trees. The site provides multiple dispersed camping spots with no formal facilities, appealing to those looking for solitude and natural beauty away from developed campgrounds.
Things to Do:
Campers can explore nearby hiking trails, enjoy birdwatching, and take in expansive views of the surrounding Prescott National Forest landscape. The nearby town of Yarnell offers basic services and access to local attractions.
Directions:
From Yarnell, take State Route 89 north to Forest Road 702. Follow FR 702 east for approximately 5 miles until you reach dispersed camping areas near Yolo Ranch. Campers should seek out established clearings for camping and avoid closed or restricted zones.
Vehicle Access:
The road is primarily dirt and may require high clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Most passenger vehicles and trucks can access the area in dry conditions, but larger RVs and trailers may find the terrain challenging. Four-wheel drive is advised for less experienced drivers or adverse weather.
Paid Campgrounds
Hazlett Hollow – Arizona Campground
34.170071, -112.285408
Hazlett Hollow Campground is a semi-developed site located within the Horsethief Basin Recreation Area of the Prescott National Forest. Situated at an elevation of approximately 5,905 feet, the campground offers 15 campsites suitable for tents and small RVs up to 40 feet in length. Each site is equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Amenities include vault toilets and potable water; however, there are no electric hookups or sewage facilities. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is typically open from May through October, weather permitting .
Recreational opportunities abound in the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle (OHV) trails. The nearby Horsethief Basin Lake offers fishing for species such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, and sunfish .
Directions:
From Interstate 17, take the Bumble Bee exit and continue north on the dirt road, following Forest Road (FR) 259 to Crown King. In Crown King, take FR 259A south for 0.5 miles to the junction with FR 52. Continue southeast on FR 52 for approximately 6 miles to reach the campground, located just northeast of Horsethief Lake .
Vehicle Access:
The access roads to Hazlett Hollow are unpaved and can be rough; high-clearance vehicles are recommended. During dry conditions, the roads are generally passable, but they may become challenging after rain. Large RVs may find the roads difficult to navigate due to narrow and winding sections .
Lower Wolf Creek – Arizona Campground
34.454578, -112.459747
Lower Wolf Creek Campground is a semi-developed campground nestled among ponderosa pines, oaks, and Arizona walnut trees in the Prescott National Forest. Located at an elevation of approximately 6,000 feet, the campground offers 20 campsites, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings with grills. Amenities include vault toilets and garbage service; however, there is no potable water available on-site. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is typically open from May through October, weather permitting .
The area provides a tranquil setting for camping, with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The campground’s proximity to Wolf Creek offers a serene environment for relaxation and nature appreciation .
Hipcamp
Directions:
From Prescott, take the Senator Highway (Mt. Vernon Avenue) south for about 6 miles, passing Goldwater Lake and the community of Groom Creek. The pavement ends approximately 500 feet before reaching Forest Road 97. Turn right onto FR 97 and continue for 1.25 miles to the campground, located on the left side of the road. Alternatively, from Prescott, take U.S. Highway 89 (White Spar Road) south for about 6 miles to FR 97. Turn left onto FR 97 and proceed for 5.1 miles on a graded dirt road to the campground .
Vehicle Access:
Forest Road 97 is unpaved but generally suitable for all vehicles during dry conditions. Caution is advised during or after wet weather, as road conditions may deteriorate. Large RVs up to 40 feet in length can be accommodated, but drivers should be prepared for narrow and winding sections .
US Forest Service
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll find designated dispersed camping sites in Prescott National Forest with clear stay limits. Rules shift depending on the area, especially around places like Prescott Basin and Thumb Butte. Knowing what’s required for permits and how to scope out good campsites makes trip planning a lot easier.
What are the designated areas for dispersed camping in Prescott National Forest?
Dispersed camping’s allowed in specific places like Copper Basin Road, where you’ll find seven marked sites. These protect the environment, so stick to them.
Are there limitations on how long I can boondock in Prescott National Forest?
You can stay up to 7 days in any 30-day period at dispersed sites. After that, move at least 10 miles before setting up again.
What are the rules and regulations for boondocking in Prescott Basin?
In Prescott Basin, you need to camp at designated dispersed sites, follow fire restrictions, and pack out all your trash. Don’t bother wildlife and keep your site tidy.
Are permits required for dispersed camping in the Prescott National Forest?
No permit is usually needed for dispersed camping in Prescott National Forest. Still, check ahead for any temporary restrictions or fire bans.
How can I find the best spots for dispersed camping in Prescott National Forest?
Use campground reviews, forest service maps, and recent visitor feedback. Photos and up-to-date info help you find quiet, well-kept spots.
What should I be aware of when dispersed camping near Thumb Butte?
When you’re camping near Thumb Butte, keep an eye on the weather—it can shift fast out there. Water’s not always easy to find, so bring plenty. If campfires are allowed, stick to the established fire rings and follow all the fire rules. Parking can get tight, especially when it’s busy, so you might have to get a little creative or arrive early.