Camp in the Coconino National Forest

The free camping in the Coconino (as well as the many other national forests) is generally along the old Fire Roads, and old Forest Service Roads. You can tell if a road is one of these by a brown sign with an FS 123 or any other number, FS meaning Forest Service Road. There are many of these roads just outside the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument on Highway 89 Heading in the direction of Flagstaff, Arizona.

Once on the Forest Service Road you will begin to follow a typically rocky or dirt path and see fire rings and pull off's on the sides of the road. Pull off and park at whichever one of these campsites you like. Some service roads will have signs dictating that you have to drive a certain distance down the roads to reach the free camping. If that's the case, follow the road until you find a place that looks right for you!

The forest service road that we stayed on for these photos was FS Road 776, and the coordinates to our site was 35.331181, -111.517855. If this exact spot is taken than you can continue down the forest service road as their are many other amazing spots on it as well. If you are heading towards Flagstaff on highway 89 this service road is going to be on your left at the coordinates 35.328599, -111.545429

If you are road tripping, national forests make for an amazing no cost camping opportunity with beautiful views and seclusion.

Please note that these sites are very primitive - no restrooms, running water, or facilities of any kind will be found. A permit is not required in this National Forest.