Childs Dispersed Camping Area
4.2220 reviewsFR 502, near Verde River, 30 miles southeast of Camp Verde, AZ
Childs Dispersed Camping Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping is completely free as it is a dispersed camping area with no amenities. No garbage services are provided, and campers must pack out all trash.
About this campground
Hidden within the rugged landscapes of Coconino National Forest, Childs Dispersed Camping Area offers adventurous souls a chance to camp wild and free along the banks of the Verde River. This undeveloped gem rewards those brave enough to navigate its challenging access roads with pristine riverside camping, mysterious historical ruins, and the legendary Verde Hot Springs. Your high-clearance vehicle becomes your ticket to this remote paradise where the echoes of Arizona's hydroelectric pioneering past mingle with the rushing waters of the Verde.
Childs Dispersed Camping Area caters to dispersed campers with no amenities and limited camping spots. It suits those looking for a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to Arizona's electric dawn at Childs, where the ghostly remains of the historic Childs Power Plant stand as monuments to human ingenuity in the wilderness. Once the beating heart of Arizona's early hydroelectric revolution, this remote outpost powered mining operations across the territory. Nearby, the Verde Hot Springs whisper tales of their glory days as a glamorous resort destination, where well-heeled visitors once soaked in luxury amid the wild beauty of the Verde Valley. Today, these ruins offer modern explorers a tangible connection to Arizona's pioneering spirit.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of Arizona's seasonal theater at Childs, where summer transforms the canyon into a sun-drenched sanctuary with temperatures soaring above 100°F—perfect for those refreshing dips in the Verde River and hot springs. As autumn arrives, the desert cools to perfection, while winter brings crisp nights that can dip below freezing, occasionally dusting the ancient ruins with snow. Spring and fall rains breathe life into the riparian corridor, creating a verdant oasis that seems almost magical against the stark desert backdrop.
ElevationPerched at 2,626 feet above sea level, Childs occupies a sweet spot in Arizona's vertical landscape. This modest elevation creates a microclimate that offers blessed relief from the scorching desert floor below, while still basking in the warm embrace of the Sonoran life zone. Here, cooler breezes sweep down the Verde River canyon, creating perfect conditions for both desert and riparian species to thrive side by side.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Verde River transforms this corner of the Coconino National Forest into an unexpected oasis where emerald waters carve through ancient rock formations, creating a ribbon of life through the desert. Towering cottonwoods and willows shade the riverbanks, their leaves whispering secrets to campers below. The haunting silhouette of the Childs Power Plant ruins rises from the landscape like a desert mirage, while sculpted cliffs and bizarre rock formations frame this natural amphitheater. It's a place where history and nature have woven themselves into an unforgettable tapestry of adventure.
Geological RegionNestled within the diverse tapestry of Coconino National Forest, this riparian wonderland showcases nature's artistry where water meets stone. The Verde River has carved its signature through layers of geological time, exposing colorful rock strata and creating dramatic formations that tell the story of ancient seas and volcanic upheavals. Lush riparian vegetation thrives in stark contrast to the surrounding high desert, creating a biological crossroads where species from multiple ecosystems converge in surprising harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no reported accessibility features for this site. The rough roads and terrain suggest it may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility.
Sites SizeThe campground has approximately 7 dispersed camping sites with varying sizes, suitable for tents and possibly small campers.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are dispersed and offer some level of privacy due to the natural layout; however, options are limited and may be close to the road or river.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid GPS-recommended routes (FR 57 and FR 16). Opt for high-clearance vehicles and Fossil Creek Road.
Best CampsitesNoted in user reviews as quiet and shaded, with proximity to the Verde River.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days maximum. Seasonal closures or fire restrictions may apply.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Most sites accommodate small groups
- number not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed camping area with approximately 7 designated sites near the Verde River.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNone required; no reservation system is in place.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come-first-serve and may fill during weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable; campsites are first-come-first-serve.
Activities you can enjoy
Childs Dispersed Camping Area offers various activities for nature lovers, including hiking to Verde Hot Springs, wildlife viewing, and exploring the lush riparian area along the Verde River.
Hiking
The area provides hiking opportunities, including a trail to the Verde Hot Springs. One user review highlights it as a 'wonderful hike and camping.'Swimming
Swimming is possible in the Verde River, but specific safety measures and designated areas are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed as an attraction. Specific species are not mentioned, but the lush riparian environment supports diverse fauna.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires allowed during Stage 1 and Stage 2 Fire Restrictions. Gas devices with on/off switches permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsDifficult access roads; high-clearance vehicles recommended. Wildlife hazards include rattle snakes (noted in user reviews).
Active alertsNone currently noted.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are centered in Camp Verde, Arizona, approximately 30 miles away. Contact the Red Rock Ranger District at 928-282-4119.
Good to know
Peak season datesYear-round availability; no peak pricing.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are available. Campers are required to pack out all trash as part of Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Verde River and near Verde Hot Springs.
Common complaintsRoad conditions to the site are described as treacherous and muddy after rains. Limited camping areas.
Campground Map
FR 502, near Verde River, 30 miles southeast of Camp Verde, AZ
Driving directionsFrom the White Bridge in Camp Verde, go east on Hwy 260 for 6.8 miles to FR 708 (Fossil Creek Road); turn right and proceed for 15 miles to the junction of FR 708 and FR 502. Continue south on FR 502 for 6 miles of very bad road to the Childs Power Plant and the Verde River. High clearance vehicles are highly recommended, and four-wheel-drive may be helpful. Avoid traveling via FR 57 and FR 16 as they are dangerous and impassable.
Primarily accessible via Hwy 260 and Fossil Creek Road. The last portion of the route, FR 502, is described as 'VERY BAD Road,' requiring high clearance and potentially four-wheel-drive. Roads are steep, rough, and muddy after rains.Nearby places
Camp Verde (30 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Flagstaff (86 miles, approximately 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are available in Camp Verde, 30 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
20 reviews
Childs Dispersed Camping Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the remote and rugged nature of the area, emphasizing the need for preparation due to rough roads and lack of amenities. Many appreciate the scenic beauty and proximity to Verde Hot Springs.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the area's natural beauty, proximity to Verde Hot Springs, and the peaceful, remote setting. One reviewer described it as 'a totally awesome campground,' while another called it a...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the extremely rough access roads, which require high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles, and the lack of amenities such as restrooms and water. Some users also warned...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing a high-clearance vehicle for the rough roads, packing out all trash, and not relying on GPS directions which may lead to incorrect access routes. One user advised,...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews are generally consistent year-round due to the campground's accessibility throughout all seasons. However, conditions may be more favorable in cooler weather months due to the high elevation...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Please do NOT take FR 57 and FR 16 through the Pine Mountain Forest to get to the campsite.' - Velma Lopez
- 'Totally awesome campground... The last 10 miles are a little rougher, and the final...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user mentioned that the area has 'about 7 sites,' and another stated, 'There aren't too many good spots for camping, but there are some.'
Based on 20 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility, but the rough terrain and lack of amenities suggest limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025