Arizona is popularly associated with its desert landscape. But actually the state also boasts of forests and mountains that are perfect for tent camping.

Setting up in such locations can be challenging if you are used to organized campgrounds. For one, the sites generally do not offer any modern amenities. That means no showers, no flush toilets and no tent pads.

The spaces are left au naturel, without installations and equipment for leisure activities. Your camping supplies checklist, as a consequence, will probably be cut down to only the bare essentials.

If staying in one of Arizona’s national forests sounds like an adventure you would like to take on, remember the following:
• There are designated camp areas. The delineations are intended to keep you safe from dangerous wildlife and at the same time preserve the forest’s flora and fauna.
• Because of the limits on permissible sites, try to arrive there before the break of dawn. The earlier, the better. Arranging for reservations is not an option. The spaces are essentially occupied on a “first come, first served” basis.
• Not having the luxury to bring a trashcan is no excuse to litter. Do not leave behind your garbage in the forest. Bring it with you when you pack up.
• Be mindful of turning over stones or reaching up to touch rock ledges.
• Closely inspect your shoes and clothes before putting them on again to avoid any venomous stings and bites.
• Pack with the demands of a rugged environment in mind. To ensure that your equipment can withstand harsh elements, turn to reputable manufacturers such as coleman camping gear plays an even more important role in ensuring your comfort and security when sleeping outdoors.

Where exactly in Arizona can you escape to? Here are some locations you might want to consider:

• Powell Springs
Of the 11 camping areas in the Prescott National Forest, Powell Springs is the smallest with three tent sites. The tents can be pitched under a canopy of pine or oak trees.

• Toroweap
Toroweap is a quiet retreat within the Grand Canyon National Park. Being in an extremely remote location, you don’t have to worry about tourists crowding your space. Plus, you get a breathtaking view of the Colorado River and its 30-second, 12,000ft freefall.

• East Rim Overlook
Situated just at the edge of Marble Canyon, East Rim Overlook hosts spacious natural campsites teeming with old-growth ponderosa pine trees. It is a go-to spot for birdwatchers, with goshawks frequenting the location.

• Sierra Ancha Wilderness
You have two options in the Sierra Ancha Wilderness area. If you are not rattled by steep heights, hike up to the bluffs north of Lake Roosevelt and settle on the borders of the deep canyons. For a waterside alternative, make your way to the Workman Creek. You can install your tent along its stream, which flows through a ponderosa pine forest.

• Bonita Creek
The main draw to Bonita Creek is that its pristine camp areas are conducive to viewing wildlife. So be prepared to see bears and big horned sheep, among other species.

• West Stronghold
You can also take inspiration from Apache chieftain Cochise and hole up in West Stronghold in the Dragoon Mountains. With a streamside getaway, you get to have massive sycamores and barren canyon walls as your backdrop. You can also retreat to the wide, rolling grasslands.

Whether you are a hard-core camper or a newbie, practice extra caution when you take the primitive route. But do not forget to have fun and explore. The experience might just give you a newfound appreciation for nature’s sounds and sights.

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