By Rachel Joel · AZ Places · Tonto National Forest There are places in the Tonto National Forest that show up on maps but give very little away about what's actually there. Bear Hide is one of them. Near the community of Bear Flat, about 14 miles east of Payson on Highway 260, down an easy forest road through the pines, sits a genuinely layered and rewarding dispersed camping area in central Arizona that keeps drawing us back. We have been back multiple times — in 2017, 2018 and most recently October 2025 — and discovered something new on every single trip. Getting There & Camping Turn off Highway 260 just past mile marker 266 onto FR 405, then head east toward FR 405A. The camping section of the road is easy — suitable for most vehicles, winding through ponderosa pine with dispersed sites spread along both FR 405 and FR 405A. Tonto Creek and the Bear Flat Trailhead are further down FR 405, past the camping area, where the road narrows and descends steeply with abrupt hairpin turns and drop-offs. That lower section is a day activity drive from camp — not the camping road itself. The Forest Service has installed mirrors at the sharpest turns on the lower road to help drivers see oncoming traffic. The Bear Hide Group Site The Bear Hide Group Site is our favorite site on forest road 405 and one of the more interesting dispersed camping spots we have come across in the Tonto National Forest. It is genuinely large and genuinely private — across multiple visits we have only once shared it with another camper. What makes it remarkable is what it holds: the remains of an old homestead. Stone foundations and partial walls still stand in the trees. An apple tree that no one planted recently still produces. A blackberry patch grows nearby — wild and productive in August, when we have picked fruit directly from the canes. Wild grapes also grow in the area, beginning to ripen by late August and early September. Down the Canyon A trail leads down the canyon from Bear Hide Group Site to a spring — a reliable water source worth knowing about. This spring is not tapped for drinking, but worth soaking your feet in or your hat. Beyond the spring the canyon continues toward Tonto Creek and the Hellsgate Wilderness, but there is no established trail past the water. We have explored this stretch on foot, pushing through the brush, but have not yet completed the full route to Tonto Creek. That is still on the list. Along the way we found a large hole excavated in the rock. Not a natural formation. Someone dug this by hand, deliberately, at some point in the past. What they were looking for we have never determined. It sits there in the canyon, purpose unknown, waiting for someone to figure it out. Bear Country The name Bear Hide is not decorative. In 2017 we discovered a downed trail camera in the area — still containing photos of elk and bear. In 2025 we found a burnt log near camp with claw marks scored into the charred wood, consistent with bear activity. We have found bear scat on multiple trips and there have been moments on the ridge hikes where the sensation of being watched was difficult to dismiss. Standard bear country protocols apply — store food properly, dogs on leash, stay aware of your surroundings. The wildlife here is real and present. The Ridge Hikes The hills surrounding the camping area reward those willing to climb them. Hike to the ridgeline and the views open dramatically — canyon country in every direction and a clear sightline to the Mogollon Rim in the distance. In October 2025 the cottonwoods and sycamores along Tonto Creek below were blazing orange — one of the better fall color displays we have seen in central Arizona. In May wildflowers and cactus blooms fill the lower terrain. The area gives something different in every season. Bear Flat Trailhead & Hellsgate Wilderness — a day hike from camp At the end of FR 405, near the Bear Flat community along Tonto Creek, sits the Bear Flat Trailhead where a campground once existed. Camping is no longer permitted at this location, but it is well worth the drive down the lower road as a day activity. The trailhead provides access to Bear Flat Trail #178 and the Hellsgate Wilderness beyond. The trail begins with a crossing of Tonto Creek via concrete stepping stones, then climbs immediately and steeply through pines and junipers with no switchbacks — straight up on pea gravel for the first quarter mile, rated strenuous. At the top the trail enters the Hellsgate Wilderness and the terrain opens into grassy meadows with manzanita, wildflowers and sweeping rim country views. The Hellsgate Wilderness covers 37,440 acres established in 1984 — accessible only on foot, no motorized vehicles permitted inside its boundaries. Bear Flat Trail #178 runs 8.4 miles end-to-end through the wilderness. Tonto Creek holds rainbow, brown and brook trout. Best fishing is in hidden pools at higher elevation — stealthy approach, quiet first cast. A Place That Rewards Return Visits Bear Hide does not announce itself. There are no signs pointing to the best spots. But for those who make the drive and take the time to explore the canyon trail, the homestead site, the ridge above camp and the hike into the Hellsgate, it is one of the most genuinely interesting dispersed camping areas in central Arizona. We keep going back. There is still more to find. Bear Hide is part of the AZ Places bucket list. See the full location guide → AZ Places offers guided camping trips across Arizona — view our hosted adventures →

By Rachel Joel · AZ Places · Tonto National Forest Most people drive through Globe on their way somewhere else. What they don't realize is that just south of town, rising over 4,000 feet from the desert floor, is one of Arizona's most rewarding and least-known camping destinations — the Pinal Mountains. In May 2024 Rachel and Luca spent two nights and three days at Six Shooter Campground in the Tonto National Forest. What unfolded was one of those trips that reminds you why you do this. The Drive Up Getting to Six Shooter Campground is part of the experience. From the Globe Ranger Station it's about 15.9 miles via FR 651 — a narrow, winding gravel mountain road that takes roughly 56 minutes to drive. Take it slow. The road climbs through chaparral and desert scrub before transitioning dramatically into ponderosa pine and white fir as you gain elevation. Communication and radio towers near the summit are visible ahead and serve as a useful landmark. The road is maintained — in part because of those towers — but it is not a road for rushing. Snow in May We arrived to find snow still lingering in the shaded spots near the road. In May. At nearly 7,700 feet, the Pinal Mountains operate on their own schedule, and the snow patches tucked into the shadows of the pines were a welcome reminder of just how much elevation we had gained from the desert below. The Campground & Surroundings Six Shooter Campground has 12 units tucked into tall stands of ponderosa pine and white fir — the shade is genuine and the quiet is real. The nearby Pinal Campground has 4 units and Upper Pinal has 3 sites for those wanting even more solitude. Sulphide Del Rey and Pioneer Pass offer additional dispersed options in the area. What gives this place an extra layer of interest is its history. Both Six Shooter and the nearby Pinal Campgrounds sit on a site once occupied by the U.S. Army, which used it as a heliographic signaling station in the late 1800s — flashing messages across the desert landscape using mirrors to reflect sunlight. Standing in those pines knowing soldiers once stood in the same spot communicating by reflected sunlight across the Arizona territory adds something to the place. The Hiking At least eight trails branch out within one mile of the campgrounds. We hiked to the fire lookout tower at 7,838 feet — one of the highlights of the trip. The view from up there is extraordinary, looking out in every direction across central Arizona. We also set out to find a spring, which turned out to have been tapped off. The trail system rewards those who explore it and there is genuinely more to discover here than a single trip can cover. We also found a cluster of large boulders that made a natural outdoor living room — the kind of place you settle into and don't want to leave. With the pines overhead and the quiet of the mountain around you, it was one of those moments that doesn't need any enhancement. Wildlife The Pinal Mountains are considered a sky island and the wildlife reflects that. Our biggest surprise was the coatis — a first sighting for us. We also encountered a horned toad lizard, white-tailed deer and an impressive variety of birds throughout the trip. The Pinal Mountains are well known among birdwatchers and it's easy to understand why once you're up there. Keep your eyes and ears open — this mountain delivers. Camp Life Firewood was plentiful for gathering throughout the forest, the trees were perfect for hammocks, and the wildflowers were in full color for a May trip. Luca processed yucca into fibers — a hands-on primitive skills moment that felt right at home in a forest this rich. The culinary highlight was a Dutch oven goulash cooked over the campfire — featured in the main video and in a second dedicated cooking video. Camp cooking at nearly 7,700 feet in a ponderosa pine forest is a completely different experience from cooking at home, and the goulash did not disappoint. Getting There From Chandler or Phoenix take US-60 East through Superior and Miami to Globe. Follow Jess Hayes Road southeast to the junction of Icehouse Canyon Road (FR 112) and Six Shooter Canyon Road (FR 222). Continue on FR 112 for 2.5 miles to the junction of FR 55. Take the right fork, continue 2.5 miles to FR 651, turn left and follow FR 651 approximately 10 miles to the campgrounds. No fees, no reservations — first come, first served. Potable water is available at Six Shooter and Pinal Campgrounds. No trash service — pack it in, pack it out. Check fire restrictions with the Globe Ranger District at (928) 402-6200 before your trip. The Pinal Mountains are one of the locations in the AZ Places bucket list. See the full location guide → · AZ Places also offers guided camping trips in Arizona — view our hosted adventures →

Camping offers a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors. However, it's important to remember that responsible camping goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship. One essential aspect of this is taking care of trash while camping. In this article, we will explore effective strategies to deal with trash, reduce waste, and keep your campsite clean, ensuring a positive camping experience for both you and the environment. How to deal with trash when camping: When it comes to dealing with trash while camping, proper disposal is key. Always carry trash bags or designated containers to store your garbage. Avoid leaving any waste exposed, as it can attract animals and disrupt the ecosystem. If there are no trash receptacles available at the campsite, pack your trash and take it with you when you leave. Remember, leaving trash behind not only harms the environment but also spoils the experience for future campers. Reduce trash on a campout: Reducing trash on a campout starts with conscious decision-making. Consider these tips to minimize waste: Plan meals and snacks thoughtfully: Opt for reusable containers and avoid excess packaging. Preparing meals in advance and bringing them in reusable containers not only reduces waste but also makes mealtime more convenient. Use reusable utensils and dishware: Instead of disposable plates, cups, and utensils, invest in durable, eco-friendly alternatives such as an Enamel Mugs. These not only contribute to reducing waste but also add a touch of nostalgia to your camping experience. Practice responsible water usage: Minimize the use of disposable water bottles by bringing refillable ones. Utilize water responsibly for cooking and cleaning, avoiding excess waste. Keeping the campsite clean: Maintaining a clean campsite is not only aesthetically pleasing but also important for preserving the environment. Follow the "Leave No Trace" principles: which include packing out all trash, minimizing one's impact, and leaving natural features undisturbed. These guidelines help protect the ecosystem and leave the campsite pristine for others to enjoy. Here are some tips to keep your campsite tidy: Pack it in, pack it out. Set up a specific spot in your campsite to gather and store trash securely. Use separate containers for recyclables and non-recyclables. This organization will help prevent litter and facilitate proper disposal when leaving or upon returning home. This also makes it convenient for putting away the trash at night or when you leave camp for an adventure. We use two different sizes of collapsible reusable landscaping bags. Pop-up the bags add and liner and your trash collecting system is ready. To wash yourself or your dishes, use or carry water 200 feet away from streams or lakes and use small amounts of biodegradable soap. Scatter dirty dishwater. Utilize toilet facilities whenever possible. Otherwise, deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, camp and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished. Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products. Conduct regular site clean-ups: Inspect your campsite, food preparation areas, and rest areas for trash or spilled foods. Dedicate a few minutes each day to pick up any litter around your campsite, even if it's not yours. Leave the area cleaner than you found it, ensuring a positive impact on the environment. Conclusion Taking care of trash while camping is an essential responsibility for outdoor enthusiasts. By following proper trash disposal practices, minimizing waste, and keeping the campsite clean, we can protect nature's beauty and ensure that future generations can enjoy it as well. Let's strive to be mindful campers who leave no trace and make a positive difference in preserving the environment for all to cherish. Remember, every small effort counts in keeping our campsites and the great outdoors clean and pristine.

When it comes to camping, selecting the right campsite can make or break your outdoor adventure. With a myriad of options available, from public campgrounds to secluded backcountry sites, it's crucial to choose a site that suits your preferences and needs. In this guide, we'll walk you through the different types of campsites and provide valuable tips to help new campers make an informed decision. Public Campgrounds Public campgrounds are popular options for both novice and experienced campers. These campsites are typically managed by government agencies or park authorities and offer a range of amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, restrooms, and sometimes even showers. They are often located in picturesque settings, providing opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. When choosing a public campground, consider factors such as proximity to facilities, reservation requirements, and the level of privacy you desire. Private Campgrounds Private campgrounds are owned and operated by individuals or organizations. They often provide a variety of amenities such as electrical hookups, Wi-Fi, swimming pools, and camp stores. These sites are ideal for campers who prefer a more structured and comfortable camping experience. Research different private campgrounds in your desired area, read reviews, and check for available amenities and services to ensure they align with your preferences. Backcountry "Dispersed" Camping For those seeking a more immersive and secluded camping experience, backcountry camping is an excellent choice. These sites are typically located in remote areas, away from developed campgrounds. Backcountry camping allows you to connect with nature on a deeper level but requires careful planning and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Before embarking on a backcountry camping trip, research the specific regulations and permits required, and be prepared to pack in and pack out all your supplies. RV Parks If you're camping with a recreational vehicle (RV), RV parks offer designated campsites equipped with electrical, water, and sewage hookups. These sites cater specifically to RV campers and often provide amenities like laundry facilities, dump stations, and recreational areas. Consider the size of your RV, the availability of necessary hookups, and the location of the RV park in relation to your planned activities when choosing an RV park. Considerations for Choosing a Campsite: Location and Accessibility: Determine the proximity of the campsite to attractions or activities you plan to engage in during your camping trip. Also, consider accessibility in terms of roads and trails leading to the site. Amenities and Facilities: Evaluate the availability of amenities such as potable water, restrooms, showers, and fire pits. These can greatly enhance your camping experience. Privacy and Noise: Determine your desired level of privacy. Some campsites may be more crowded and noisy, while others offer seclusion and tranquility. Safety and Security: Prioritize campsites with good lighting, well-maintained trails, and appropriate safety measures. Research any potential risks or wildlife encounters in the area. Reviews and Recommendations: Read reviews and seek recommendations from fellow campers or online communities to gain insights and firsthand experiences about specific campsites. Choosing the right campsite is vital for a successful and enjoyable camping trip. By understanding the different types of campsites available, such as public campgrounds, private campgrounds, backcountry sites, and RV parks, and considering factors like location, amenities, privacy, safety, and reviews, new campers can make an informed decision that aligns with their preferences and ensures a memorable outdoor experience. Happy camping!

Leave No Trace (LNT) is a set of principles that guide outdoor enthusiasts on how to minimize their impact on the natural environment. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing LNT is crucial to preserving our natural resources for future generations. In this blog post, we'll explore the seven principles of Leave No Trace and provide tips on how you can implement them on your next outdoor adventure. Plan Ahead and Prepare Planning ahead involves conducting thorough research on the camping location, understanding the weather conditions, and familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations of the area. It is important to prepare a detailed checklist of essential camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, and proper clothing for various weather conditions. Make sure to bring enough food, water, and supplies for your trip, and have a backup plan in case of emergencies. Additionally, arranging for appropriate permits and reservations in advance will help avoid any last-minute complications. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you have all the necessary supplies, are aware of potential challenges, and can make the most of your camping experience. This principle not only enhances your safety and comfort but also allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Stay on established trails and designated campsites, and avoiding fragile areas such as wetlands, meadows, and tundra. Durable surfaces refer to areas that can withstand foot traffic and camping equipment without causing excessive damage. When selecting a campsite, look for established camping areas, such as designated campsites or previously used spots, as these are already compacted and less likely to suffer from erosion. Avoid setting up camp on fragile vegetation, sensitive habitats, or near water bodies, as they are easily susceptible to damage. By staying on durable surfaces, we preserve the natural beauty of our surroundings and contribute to the long-term health of the wilderness we love to explore. Dispose of Waste Properly Pack out all trash and leaving no litter behind. Proper waste disposal not only helps maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of the campsite but also protects the local wildlife and ecosystems. To implement this principle effectively, campers should bring along sturdy trash bags or bins and designate specific areas for waste disposal. All waste, including food scraps, packaging materials, and personal items, should be properly sealed and securely stored to prevent attracting animals or causing litter. It is recommended to separate recyclable materials from your trash so they can be processed accordingly. Additionally, campers must refrain from burying or burning waste, as these methods can harm the environment and pose safety risks. It is important to locate a designated restroom facility. If such facilities are not available, designate an area for waste disposal. Using a trowel or shovel dig a small hole "cathole" at least six to eight inches deep, 200 feet away from water sources and campsites. After use, cover the waste with soil and make sure to pack out any toilet paper or hygiene products used. Leave What You Find Do not disturb natural objects like rocks, plants, or wildlife. To preserve the beauty and integrity of nature, we must resist the temptation to take home souvenirs or disturb the delicate balance of the environment. By leaving natural objects, such as rocks, flowers, or artifacts, untouched, we allow others to enjoy the same unspoiled experience. Take only photos and leave only footprints. Minimize Campfire Impact To minimize campfire impact, it is essential to choose established fire rings or designated fire pits whenever possible. These designated areas are designed to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading, reducing the risk of wildfires. Additionally, using small, manageable fires and burning only dry and fallen wood helps to limit the amount of fuel consumed and the production of smoke. Properly extinguishing the fire before leaving the campsite is another crucial step, as it ensures no embers are left burning and reduces the risk of accidental wildfires. By minimizing campfire impact, we can enjoy the warmth and camaraderie of a campfire while respecting the environment and leaving no trace behind. Respect Wildlife It is crucial to avoid feeding or approaching wild animals. While it may be tempting to offer food or get closer for a better view or photograph, this can disrupt their natural behavior and create dependency, which can lead to negative consequences for both the animals and humans. Secondly, campers should store food securely and dispose of waste properly to prevent attracting wildlife to the campsite. This helps to maintain their natural foraging patterns and reduces the risk of conflicts or habituation. Additionally, respecting wildlife also means observing animals from a distance and refraining from making excessive noise or sudden movements that may startle or distress them. Be Considerate of Other Visitors Be respectful of other campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Adhere to quiet hours and minimize noise pollution, especially during the evening and early morning. Consider the privacy of others by maintaining a reasonable distance between campsites and refraining from intruding on neighboring areas is equally important. Adhering to campground rules, sharing communal spaces, and being mindful of the impact your actions have on the environment all demonstrate consideration for fellow campers. By following these seven principles, you can help protect the natural environment and preserve our wild places for future generations. Whether you're camping, hiking, or simply spending time in nature, practicing Leave No Trace is crucial to ensuring that our outdoor spaces remain beautiful, healthy, and accessible to everyone.

Understand the Setup A composting toilet with urine diversion is cleaner and more sustainable than a traditional pit toilet. It helps reduce odors, separates liquids for easier management, and allows waste to be buried safely without contaminating groundwater. Our compost toilet has two separate areas: Front: Urine diverter – directs liquid waste into a separate container. Rear: Solids container – for feces and heavily soiled toilet paper, combined with dry cover material like sawdust or coconut coir. Position yourself properly when using the toilet Always sit (don’t squat or stand) to ensure liquids go into the urine diverter. Make sure feces go into the rear solids container. After You Go Place lightly soiled toilet paper in the trash can. Heavily soiled toilet paper goes in the solids container. Sprinkle a scoop of dry cover material (e.g., sawdust, coconut coir, or other organic materials) over the solids to reduce odor and absorb moisture. Rinse the urine diverter by pouring a small amount of water into the front section. This helps dilute the urine for later disposal and keeps the diverter clean for the next user. Wipe down the seat with the available cleaning wipes if needed, and place used wipes in the trash bin. Close the toilet lid when finished. Close the bathroom door when exiting to help keep bugs out. What NOT to Do ❌ Do not throw wet wipes, sanitary products, or trash in the solids container, use the trash can provided. Content is later buried and these items are not allowed. ❌ Avoid urinating in the solids section. Doing so can make the content stink more than it does. ❌ Do not overload the urine bottle with liquids. Cleaning & Maintenance Check and empty the urine container daily or as needed to prevent overflow and odor. Wipe down the urine diverter and toilet seat with cleaning wipes. Keep the solids container dry – moisture causes odor. Empty the solids container when it’s about ¾ full, using the disposal guidelines below. Disposal Guidelines Solid Waste: How to Dispose Choose a discreet location at least 200 feet (about 70 steps) from water, trails, and campsites. Dig a hole about 8–10 inches deep and 10–12 inches wide. Wear disposable gloves if desired and bring a small trash bag. Carefully empty the solid waste (minus the liner, if using one) into the hole. Cover completely with dirt and disguise the spot using natural materials like leaves or rocks. On private land, you may use a compost bin if it complies with local regulations. Never dump waste on the surface or into water sources. Urine: How to Dispose Urine is generally sterile but should be handled with care to avoid odor or contamination. If water is available, dilute urine with water (1 part urine to 8 parts water) and pour around non-edible plants, at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, or campsites. If water is scarce, pour urine directly onto well-drained soil at the base of trees or large shrubs. Rotate disposal spots to avoid odor buildup. Always stay at least 200 feet from any stream, lake, river, or campsite. After Disposal If using a liner, tie it off and place it in the main trash. Replace the liner (if applicable). Rinse containers if needed and return them to the toilet setup. Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Thank you for doing your part to protect nature and keep the site clean! 🌿 Questions? Ask your AZ Places host.

Ruby was a mining town that supported the Montana mine, about 70 miles southwest of Tucson, Arizona in the Oro Blanco Mining District, near the Mexican border. Settled at 4,200 feet altitude, amongst beautiful rolling hills and rugged canyons west of the Atascosa Mountains, the mine and old mining camp lie at the foot of 5,370-foot Montana Peak, the most distinctive landmark in the area. RUBY's HISTORY ​The first Europeans to visit the Ruby area were Spanish conquistadors in the late 1500’s. In the 19th century the region was referred to as “Oro Blanco,” or white gold after a distinctive light colored strain. Later, as colonists moved west, there was an influx of adventurers, mountain men, ranchers and miners. The first strike in the Montana vein was in the late 1870’s, and by the turn of the century, the town of Ruby had become the largest mining camp in the area. Site of fortunes made and lost and two famous double homicides, Ruby was once the largest lead and zinc producing mine in the state of Arizona. The museum houses artifacts from mining days, plus photos of what Ruby was like when 1,200 people lived near the mine at the height of its production. Visit: www.rubyaz.com #RubyAZ #GhostTown #Camping

On my birthday on July 4th 2021, in order to get to Chaco Canyon with time to spend there, we headed out of the Phoenix valley at 10:30pm after attending a party for a short time. Knowing we would have to setup camp late, we reserved a 2.5 acre camping spot near the Petrified Forest National Park for $39 by AirBNB. We arrived in the area at 2:30 in the morning to find it had recently rained and the dirt roads had large puddles. Being it was dark, we had a difficult time locating the exact spot, so we parked and walked a short distance to locate our camp site. When doing so we saw frogs and woke many birds that had been resting in the bushes. We located the camp site that was equipped with a small "shade" structure that was missing the shade, a picnic table and a fire pit with a small bundle of fire wood. We returned to retrieve our truck and made our way to setup our tent. We enjoyed looking at the stars for a bit and listening to the frogs and nearby trains before getting a little bit of sleep. In the morning we packed up and hoped the muddy roads had dried up, this was not the case. The second puddle on this narrow road, I got us stuck, due to insufficient speed. While I'm equipped with a shovel, I had yet to purchase recovery tracks. We messed around with shoveling dry dirt and rocks, but no success. We recalled the logs at camp and sent my son a short walk to bring a few. Using the logs, we were able to get free and on our way we went for the rest of our 8 day adventure. I since have purchased recovery tracks from Go Treads. I'm all about saving space and products that are made in the USA. Check them out at gotreads.com

Sedona Arizona Our last stop on the way out of Sedona, just off the 179 south of Sedona is a small parking area where we begin our really short hike to the Raven Caves. These caves are a network of small cavities overlooking Oak Creek just south of Sedona. Though they look small at first, if you keep going through the passageways, you’ll discover there’s a lot more to see than appears at first glance. Inside required ducking and stepping over obstacles. There are some drop offs to the left that I recommend exercising caution, not a good cave for young children. We passed through several passages with some having windows with a view of the Sedona landscape. While in Sedona we stayed at Los Abrigados Resort that is right on Oak Creek. We enjoyed beer and food at the Oak Creek Brewery and also enjoyed eating at the Thai Spices and The Hudson. Shopped at Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Hiked the west fork trail for the first time, one of the best hikes in Sedona. We also hiked to the Seven Sacred Pools, upon our return to our vehicle we got hailed on. The last night of our seven day stay we enjoyed the sunset at the Sedona Airport Scenic Lookout, then enjoyed a night hike to the Airport Mesa. Thank for reading. Enjoy your day.

Anyone you ask has a different reason for camping. Some like to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Some families go camping to revitalize their relationships, away from all the distractions at home. Maybe it is to connect with the past or to learn new skills such as how to build a fire, pitch a tent, or read a compass. Camping means different things to different people. So why go camping? Here are some common reasons why people choose to "rough it" while camping. Explore Nature Camping is an immersive experience, providing an adventure in nature. While camping you can feel the sunshine, the rain and wind. You can see wildlife in their natural setting and hear the sounds of coyotes, songbirds and maybe an elk call. See natural features, like mountains, rivers, or sand dunes, at different times of day. Spending the nights outdoors allows you to view constellations not visible at home. ​Improve Health Camping does a body and mind good. The physical demands of camping in the backcountry clearly count as exercise. But any kind of camping has health benefits. Some are straightforward, like setting up camp or hiking. Mental health improves outside. Researchers linked outdoor activity to a decrease in depressive thoughts. Sleeping under the stars helps you get in touch with your natural circadian rhythms, a foundation for high quality sleep and health. Digital Detox Sometimes you just need a break from technology and reconnect with nature. Some AZ Places will have poor, or no cell connectivity, that you can take advantage of. Allowing you to put down the digital devices and focus on the basics. Sit back and relax with a good book, draw in a sketchbook, or write in a journal. ​Strengthen Relationships Shared experiences shape the memories that make up life-long relationships. Sitting around the fire and other camp activities allow for face-to-face conversations. Share stories. Being quiet together. Enjoying a camp meal. ​Develop Life Skills Camping requires you to rely on yourself and others to meet your basic needs such as setting up camp, building a fire, survive the elements, or being alone with your thoughts. But these are more than just survival skills; these abilities give you confidence and self-worth that carries over into all other aspects of your life. It just takes a little effort and guidance, and you'll be setting up tents in no time! What do you enjoy about camping? What benefits has it had in your life? Share by providing a comment below.

New fire restrictions to cut down on wildfires are being considered by the Flagstaff Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest. Near Flagstaff there could be an increases in areas that are banned from year-round camping and campfires. If these proposed regulations are passed, they would be implemented by April. Check out the AZfamily.com to read further.

The U.S. Forest Service is asking for public feedback on managing five popular recreation spots in the Coronado National Forest, located 1½ to three hours from Tucson. Here's a summary of the areas and how to give your input: Peña Blanca Lake: A 50-acre lake with fishing docks and camping options. Huachuca Mountains: Forested peaks with trails and historic sites. Cochise Stronghold: A rocky area for camping and climbing. Chiricahua Mountains: High peaks with campgrounds and trails. Mount Graham: Historic trails and campgrounds with high elevation. You can provide feedback until May 30 at fs.usda.gov/goto/RecreationPlanning. In-person open houses are also being held in April and May. For more details, visit fs.usda.gov/recmain/coronado/recreation. Your input will help shape the management of these recreation areas. Read full article at the Arizona Daily Star