Rattlesnake Mesa (FR 96) in AZ -- Free Camping & Overnight Parking in Arizona
Rattlesnake Mesa (FR 96) in AZ
A 6.8-mile stretch of dirt National Forest road in Graham County, AZ.
Coronado National Forest, Safford Ranger District allows dispersed camping here -- 14-day limit in any 60 days. Camp at least 200 ft from water.
All 6.8 miles in are maintained only for high-clearance vehicles. Dirt the whole way in (6.8 miles). Climbs 1,300 ft over 6.8 miles -- sustained grades near 16%, with pitches to 22%. Stretches run along a shelf with a drop of up to ~110 ft on the downhill side. Winds through 10 switchbacks. Dead-end road -- no mapped turnaround; expect to back out or unhitch. Cattle guards 0.5 and 5.5 miles in.
Private here -- the nearest through road is 1.7 miles off. China Peak stands 1,829 ft above the site, 3.4 miles south. The nearest town, San Manuel, is 21 mi off.
September normals 60–87°F, 1.5″ rain. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.
Set by Coronado National Forest, Safford Ranger District. Stage 1 and 2 orders change within days -- check the current order before you build a fire.
fs.usda.gov