Fr 171 Campground

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No fees or permits required. High clearance vehicles may be needed during snow or heavy rain.

About

FR 171 Campground is tucked away along Old Rim Road (FR 171), behind the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests. This dispersed camping area features numerous campsites scattered along the forest road under towering Ponderosa pines at an elevation of approximately 7,700 feet. The area provides a remote camping experience with established sites available on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge. This is one of many dispersed camping options in the popular Rim Lakes Recreation Area, making it an excellent backup location when designated campgrounds are full during busy holiday or summer weekends. The area's remoteness offers campers dark skies perfect for stargazing. While the forest roads are generally well-maintained and frequently used, high clearance vehicles may be required during snow or heavy rain conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 68-80°F during the day, dropping to 45-59°F at night. The area experiences monsoon weather from July through early September. Late September brings cooler temperatures with nighttime lows often dropping below freezing. Campers should bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water sources, as potable water is not available at this dispersed camping area.

Directions

From Payson, travel east on Highway 260. Turn right into the Mogollon Rim Visitor Center. Continue to the back of the parking area and look for FR 171 towards Al Fulton Picnic Ground. A few miles down the road past the picnic area, look for established campsites.

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