1. Arizona
In addition to experiencing a unique terrain in Arizona, you have the convenient option of avoiding the cold winter months by coming here. Many areas in Arizona are public lands that are overseen by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service. Furthermore, various locations offer free camping opportunities.
To get a small glimpse of Arizona’s offerings, explore these two camping sites that are picturesque starting points for exploring the region’s desert terrain and national parks. These off-the-beaten-path locations are renowned for their breathtaking sunrises.
2. Utah
Utah boasts a diverse terrain, which includes magnificent red rocks, as well as forested mountains, lakes, and extensive rivers. The state offers abundant opportunities for outdoor activities and, notably, numerous areas for free camping across its entirety.
In Utah, there are numerous spaces accessible for free overnight stays; however, these two campgrounds are among the finest options available.
3. New Mexico
New Mexico is a great place to visit solely for its free camping opportunities. Due to the state’s high elevation, winter camping can be difficult. However, the transitional seasons of spring and fall provide a delightful camping experience, as you would imagine from the Land of Enchantment.
These two campgrounds are located right on the outskirts of the wilderness. The scenery is breathtaking and there are plenty of thrilling and adventurous activities nearby. Make a stop in New Mexico and immerse yourself in the vast land that is open for boondockers, offering an off-the-grid experience.
4. Wyoming
In Wyoming, free camping can be found in nearly every location, and it is simple to discover a picturesque spot with minimal crowds. Although the area around Yellowstone National Park is the most frequented region, you can proceed towards the south and explore the Wind River Range, where snow-capped peaks can be observed for a significant part of the year.
All four national forests in Wyoming permit dispersed camping, and there are also free camping opportunities near Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons.
5. Colorado
It is still easy to find free, beautiful camping in Colorado that you can use as a base camp for climbing, mountain biking, skiing, or hiking, despite the increase in tourism. Make sure you visit Rocky Mountain National Park for an incredible adventure destination.
Logan finds this set of scattered locations to be stunning. Each site is meticulously positioned amidst wooded areas and giant rocks to ensure privacy. As someone who works remotely, Logan thoroughly enjoys spending weeks camping and working in lush surroundings. Reliable cell phone service is crucial for Logan to accomplish work tasks through their mobile hotspot, which thankfully functions exceptionally well at this campsite. Additionally, the campsite’s aesthetic beauty adds to its appeal.
NomadsinNature, we spent a week camping at this location and thoroughly enjoyed our stay in our 30-foot fifth wheel. The dirt roads in Colorado are fabulous, and this place is certainly not an exception.
6. Edge of the World
Edge of the World unquestionably ranks as one of the most incredible locations for camping in Arizona, regardless of whether it is free or requires payment.
Although this free dispersed camping area is relatively close to Flagstaff (or Sedona) in a straight line, the journey to access it by vehicle is quite challenging.
The access road, spanning 23 miles, is rugged and filled with twists and turns. I have witnessed various 2WD cars, such as a Prius, successfully navigating the route, but having a vehicle with high-clearance and/or 4WD is highly beneficial. By maintaining a slow pace, you can reach your destination unscathed in nearly any vehicle. However, it would be advisable for RVs and trailers to refrain from camping in this area.
Once you arrive at the Edge of the World, you will discover ample room within the forest where you can spread out. The most optimal locations are situated along the rim of a canyon, providing a scenic view of the stunning Red Rock Wilderness.
Edge of the World, also known as East Pocket or End of the World, can be reached by following Woody Mountain Road.
7. South Rim Grand Canyon
When it comes to free camping near the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, Coconino Rim Road is my preferred choice.
The most convenient way to get there is by taking the South Entrance to the national park. Simply follow the Desert View Drive section of Highway 64 for approximately 15 miles until you come across the junction for Coconino Rim Road (also known as Forest Road 310).
Even though you might spot great camping areas right away, it is essential to proceed along the unpaved road until you come across the Kaibab National Forest sign (which is located just beyond the initial cattle guard).
There are multiple campsites available on Coconino Rim Road for individuals. The campsites closest to Highway 64 become occupied rapidly during the busiest time of the year. However, there are additional campsites for those who are willing to explore further into the area. Furthermore, you can also take various other roads, such as Forest Road 307, to reach even more campsites.
8. Saddle Mountain Overlook
Saddle Mountain Overlook possibly offers the most impressive views of any free campsite in Arizona, and potentially even across the entire United States.
Regrettably, there are only a few sites that offer views of the Grand Canyon directly. In the fortunate event that you are able to secure one of these sites, you will be rewarded with an incredibly breathtaking experience of witnessing the indescribable beauty of sunrise and sunset illuminating the canyon walls.
Despite being passable to all vehicles, the road is moderately washboarded. As you approach the overlook, the road becomes narrower and significantly rougher. RVs and trailers can find many campsites along the access road, but those closest to the overlook are only suitable for passenger vehicles. It is advantageous to have high-clearance and/or four-wheel drive, although it is not necessary.
Are all the spaces close to the edge occupied? No need to fret. The Saddle Mountain area is filled with numerous hiking trails that meander through it, and there are plentiful lookout points. If you embark on a short hike, you will reach the canyon’s precipice.
9. Mogollon Rim Road
One of my favorite places for dispersed camping in Arizona is located just northeast of Payson.
The Mogollon Rim is an escarpment that stretches for about 200 miles. It offers numerous dispersed camping options on the elevated cliffs, which provide extensive views of the forests located thousands of feet beneath.
There are numerous places for dispersed camping available here, with my personal preference being those located north of Highway 260 along or near Rim Road (FR 300).
Throughout much of this area, it is important to note that there is no dispersed camping available directly along Rim Road. Hence, designated dispersed camping is required in this area.
A number of dispersed camping areas can be located on Google Maps, and they are typically named after the forest road where they are situated. An illustrative instance is Forest Road 9350, which is considered one of the finest designated dispersed camping areas and is highly recommended for individuals visiting for the first time.
Additional options for camping include FR 169 Campground, FR 195 Campground, and FR 171 Campground. These campgrounds are all designated areas for dispersed camping. If you are looking for true dispersed camping, where camping is allowed outside of marked campsites, you can find it by heading south of Highway 260 on Young Road, also known as Highway 288.
Remember to be alert while camping in these dispersed campsites, as many of them are located just feet from the rim itself. Although these spots offer the best views, drops up to 200 feet are common, so it is important to keep children and pets close.
Know that the campsites located on the rim side are susceptible to the effects of the weather. Strong winds are frequent in this area and lightning storms can be both terrifying and commonly occur. In order to reduce wind impact, it is recommended to camp a distance from the rim. Moreover, the advantage of this is that you can easily reach breathtaking views within a short walk.
