camping near Flagstaff, az
 

Does anyone know much about car tent camping in the mountains/forest outside of Flagstaff? We are bringing our dog. We would like to find a place that is a little secluded & off the beaten path. Lots of trees, nice views & hiking are a must. We are going Sept. 10th for a week. Any suggestions please?

Naional Forest campgrounds?

I would definitely try to camp at least a couple of night at the South Rim at the Grand Canyon. You can kennel the dog there if you need to.

http://www.forestcamping.com/dow/southwst/cococmp.htm

Check out Oak Creek Canyon, south of Flagstaff. My family camped there years ago (a decade at least, so don't take my word for it, just look into it!) and it was really pretty. We then spent a day at Sliding Rock (may be too far for you to visit, closer to Sedona), it was gorgeous, and fun.

Here's a link to campgrounds in the Coconino National Forest, which somewhat surrounds Flagstaff ... http://www.forestcamping.com/dow/southwst/cocoinfo.htm

Inner Basin area of San Francisco peaks is a good area for hiking, though they may not let dogs in there now.

You can also do 'dispersed' or 'throw-down' camping in many areas, where you just pick a nice spot and set up camp, though you need to be set up with water and portable toilet.

The Coconino National Forest contains 4 districts: the Peaks, Mormon Lake, Mogollon Rim, and Red Rock Districts. Each offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, backpacking, equestrian riding, mountain biking, camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country and alpine skiing.
That sounds like enough variety so that everyone will have fun.
Enjoy!

Keep your dog close to you. There are rattlesnakes in that area.
That's not to say you will see one but dogs are curious.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument has a campground, if memory serves me right.

Info on camping at Sunset Crater Volcano NM:

http://www.nps.gov/sucr/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm

And here's info on camping near The Canyon in the national forest:

http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisi...CP_JUMP_153571

Drive towards Arizona Snowbowl, on Fort Valley Road or HWY 180. Pass AZ Snowbowl and you will see a forest road sign for FR 151. Turn right onto this road. Take it for a while and you will end up in nice, secluded areas with views of the peaks. My favorite place to camp.