THIS IS GREAT NEWS!!! Here is the summary: The district’s goal and plan are for the new Forest Order to be signed and new designated dispersed camp system to be ready for use by the end of August. Once the Forest Order is in place, campers and recreationists visiting Coconino National Forest in the area of Forest Road 525 will be able to use and camp in eight designated dispersed camping areas comprised of nearly 36 acres that accommodate about 10-35 campsites in each area, totaling 150-200 campsites-depending on the size of the vehicle, trailer, or RV. HERE IS THE REST OF THE ARTICLE: Copied from the US Forest Service. This affects dispersed camping on Road 525 west of Sedona AZ. “New designated dispersed camping sites to be implemented west of Sedona” SEDONA, Ariz., May 12, 2022 - In partnership with the National Forest Foundation, Coconino National Forest is excited to announce the signing of a decision memo that designates specific areas for dispersed camping and day-use sites in west #Sedona that will preserve and protect the entire area from overuse and negative impacts. Signed by Red Rock District Ranger Amy Tinderholt, the West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping and Day-use Areas Decision Memo allows for the first phase of construction to begin immediately. The first part of implementation will begin with construction and installation of information kiosks, signage, and boulder placement to block off user-created roads and campsites, while delineating specific areas for parking and legal dispersed camping. These preparatory activities will take place over the next several months. “After years of planning and many meetings with residents, the City of Sedona Government, recreation-based businesses, and many stakeholders, we are proud to see so many efforts come to fruition and finally begin implementing this new endeavor,” said District Ranger Tinderholt. “This will help balance the use of this area, curb impacts to the land, protect natural resources and private property, while providing areas for visitors to enjoy camping.” When installation of signage and placement of boulders is complete, a Forest Order will be put in place that prohibits dispersed camping and campfires in the 32,130-acre area that makes up most of the national forest in west Sedona. This aims to keep campers in the eight designated areas, reduce violations of the 14-day stay limit, protect the fragile desert landscape by prohibiting visitors from creating their own dispersed campsites and campfires, while also keeping them from trespassing on private land. The district’s goal and plan are for the new Forest Order to be signed and new designated dispersed camp system to be ready for use by the end of August. Once the Forest Order is in place, campers and recreationists visiting Coconino National Forest in the area of Forest Road 525 will be able to use and camp in eight designated dispersed camping areas comprised of nearly 36 acres that accommodate about 10-35 campsites in each area, totaling 150-200 campsites-depending on the size of the vehicle, trailer, or RV. These first-come, first-served campsite areas will be accessed via state Route 89A, with five of those areas located along the popular access Forest Road 525, while two others are located along FR 89B, and the final area on FR 9570A. Four day-use parking areas and four information sites along these forest roads will also be designated. A Forest Order has been in place since 1999 that prohibits camping and campfires on 50,520 acres of the district. With the addition of another Forest Order covering west Sedona, camping and campfires will be prohibited on an additional 32,130 acres, encompassing a total of 82,650 acres where camping and campfires will not be allowed. “Meeting our August goal will depend on weather and a number of other factors,” said District Recreation Staff Officer Chris Johansen. “But we’re confident of this timeline and excited to begin implementing something that has been needed for some years now.” Violations of the Code of Federal Regulations, including Forest Orders, campfire restrictions, and closures such as this can carry a fine of up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail.
Sedona Res for 5 yrs. It's been difficult to watch the overtourism here. And difficult to "pick a side". I have witnessed the destruction of trails on the 525 by atvs, jeeps and campers. It was shocking after not going out there for a few months. The sense of entitlement by some to do whatever the heck they want is unbelievable. Yet I believe the Forest is for all to enjoy. Enjoy. Not to destroy. Which is what is happening. There dont seem to be any restrictions by the city on #'s of biz to rent atvs. And the FS maintains that the land is for all to enjoy. I thought I had read somewhere that the FS was improving camping spots during the closure. And they are now being more diligent in moving people along when they have stayed beyond the allowed time. I can't find the article....of course. Please keep spreading the message of packing out garbage, staying on official trails and for the love of God stop stacking rocks! (Erosion and it's some small creatures home 🥰)
We are caught somewhere in the middle as well. We think limiting camping to designated sites would help. But there is room for way more than 8. We estimate that 6 mile stretch of the 525 had over 100 vehicles while we were there. Maybe they could make 50 designated sites and start from there. We agree there are way to many rental side by sides and ATV's kicking up dust. We can see why you moved to Sedona! We have spent more time here than any other place in the last 4 years. Stay tuned for our next couple of videos where we find free camping more to our style just outside of Clarkdale. 😀👍
We camped in that area a couple years back. We must have taken the long way in. We were in a large circular area with 1 other camper. The next morning, the hot air balloons came to visit and started landing all around us. What a beautiful area!
Nice Dan! We had a similar experience with the hot air balloons a couple of years ago! Carrie hopes to do a hot air balloon ride some time. It's on her bucket list. 😀
We are currently at the eastern side of the Grand Canyon and ran into the guy with the blue promoter that serves free tea! I can't remember his name but I know you guys know him as well. 👍😎 If you guys want a remote quiet free campsite near Cottonwood. Let us know and we will send you the coordinates. 😀
I stayed at the same site you did back in early March. I recognize the turn in and the left fork at the bush. I too learned quickly to move off the main road. It certainly would be a shame if they closed that area. I feel the ATV vehicles do far more damage than the campers. Also, if you have a small van, the Palatki Indian parking area has a hose and faucet that the ranger said I could use to fill my water tank. It opens at 9:30am and parking fills fast, so you must arrive early to get close enough to the faucet. The area is small, so nothing larger than a van would fit. As always, I enjoyed your video! Keep up the good work.
I walked to the Palatki parking area one day and saw that faucet! I didn't have the courage to ask if we could use it. That is good information, thank you! 👍😎
Just got the red dirt off the fans! Boy Carrie your video of our hike made it look a lot more scary on the edge! I sure hope you’re wrong about the closures as I would definitely go back. Glad we did it when we did! Thanks for a great time!
That red dirt takes a while to find it all! You were a pleasure to spend time with. I am so happy Carrie and you got to go for that hike! I couldn't have done it with my fear of heights. That's one of those lifetime memory moments. 😀😀😀
The Sedona area is beautiful but the town is primarily a tourist destination. Heck no on the trail to the caves....but kudos for your adventurous spirit. Enjoy your videos 📹 and stay safe!
It's getting busier than ever in town. We try to avoid driving through as it takes about 30 minutes. We found another area to camp outside of Clarkdale that fits our style better. We went an entire day and did not see a single person. 😀
Rolled into a boondocking area a little south of 525 early April this year, and turned out I was in the preferred landing area for the balloons! Woke up one morning to the sound of the burners as they were landing 50' from my rig. I'm a little jealous that you got The Subway almost to yourselves! It was crowded, but still amazing, when I hiked it. Amazing area... hope we will all be welcome back.
What a beautiful area! That cliff walk was gorgeous but absolutely terrifying... You were so close to the edge, OMG!😱🫣 I don't do well with super high heights.😬 Wonderful camp spot and beautiful video. 👍😁
That was an epic hike. A visit from New and old friends is always nice. Thank you so much for sharing. I'm not sure when you hit 25k but congrats. I aposolutly love this channel. Safe travels.
Thank you, Lori! I knew we were getting close to 25k subs but didn't notice. 👍😂 We are hoping to catch a break and increase our subscriber count a litter more rapidly.
@@oneadVANtureatatime I've heard from other channels that if you put at least 3 #'s in the description of the video that helps. If someone searches for anything with just one word you have in your # it will recommend your video to them. I've also heard them say make a bunch of shorts. It puts your channel in a different algorithm.
Doing a search it looks like they did an emergency closing last year due to high winds and dry conditions and elevated risk of fire. Likely keeping it down to a minimum of people that search and rescue would have to try to get in and remove people in case of fire. This is understandable.
Yes! Last year they closed all nation forests down in the entire state of Arizona due to fire danger. I am starting to think they may do this again by how hot and dry its been already.
I love caves, but I'm leery of drops😬 thanks for that trip Carrie. Sedona looks wonderful, although I'm not fond of wind....Thanks again for all your information.
Not sure what's going on with the wind this year but we have rarely gotten a day without it! It's been a challenge to get the drone up in the air. We love caves also! There is a couple of them in South Dakota we want to check out someday. I agree about the drop offs! Carrie is fearless. 😀
Thank you for your great videos! I am soo looking forward to this summer! I have a great long route planned, Williams, Flag area, down FR 82, down to rim road and across, show low area, alpine area, 191 south, mount Graham and the Gila national forest, and back much the same way to flag. I can't wait for Mount Graham @ 10,000 ft. during Monsoon season. I am going to get that elusive lighting pic.
Awesome Glenn! We just got finished with the rim road all the way to Show Low. Mount Graham at 10000 feet during the monsoons sounds fantastic! I want to do that! If you get the lightning shot please share. 😀😀👍
We were up at Mt Graham about 7-8 months ago. Tons of fire damage up there. Was so sad. Some of our favorite boondock spots gone. Also their doing lots of road work on the way up. I’m sure it’s still in progress. They had lots to do. Farther at the way top it’s stunning and the little lake is fun to fish at Riggs Lake. Which is next to Riggs Flat campground. I’m sure you’ll find some little spot You can see all of AZ way up there 👍
This is what it says in that article... The USFS will set up emergency closures for camping and fire-starting around and along Forest Roads 525 and 89B. Beginning in late March or early April, there will be only eight designated camping sites in the forest with around 200 spots total. The rest of the forest will be completely closed off to public camping. This will be on a first-come-first-serve basis, with no services at the campsite. Eight areas..... 200 spots.
+Jane T yes we read that as well. When we tried to clarify this with the woman at the rangers office who answered the phone she stated there would only be 8 spots on the 525. I think she is misinformed….at least I hope so! We are all for protecting our public lands but even at 200 spots total 🟰 that is nothing in a national forest of approximately 1.8 million acres. While we were recently on the Mongollon Rim (also coconino NF) we noticed almost all side national forest roads were closed. We are not opposed to designated sites in high traffic areas within reason. Maybe there is more to the story that we are not privy to…. I’m very scared for fire season this year…. Perhaps this is a preemptive strategy.
Beautiful video Carrie and Dave &Roodle😍 Carrie please tell your mom our Prayers are with her. Wishing her a Happy Mothers Day🌺🌷😃👍🙋♀️. Carrie and Dave & Roodle stay Safe. Thank You🌺🌷😃🙋♀️
Arizona is the most beautiful state in the Southwest. Another great video you guys. That cave is so cool too. Great shot from inside of it. Nice joke on the one wheel Dave! We'd be in the dirt.
You might do better on the one wheel than me 😂 My balance is poor. We hope to get to meet you guys in the near future! I hope you found some shelter from this crazy wind, it never seems to stop this year.😀
Sounds like Alabama Hills Took it down to a small number of sites. Park for the day and find one of the few spots if lucky Or go to the campground down the main road But it is in CA
We heard they did that to Alabama Hills! It was open and super clean a few years ago when we stayed. We are sad to hear about it. There seem to be more campers than ever now, we wonder if it was getting abused.
Soooo glad Dave didn't go on that hike! Dear Husband Ron wouldn't have gone near that cliff on a bet either. Once we drove up to Jerome when we lived in Phoenix; from the bottom to the top he didn't open his eyes once, since he was on the "outside"! Sedona is so unique and magical, even among other Arizona sights-to-see. So great to share it with friends, including the I-couldn't-care-less Juno! (Loved the cartoon conversation between Juno and Roodle.) If the agencies start shutting down more and more camping sites, it creates all sorts of problems for nomads... I can see why many are looking for a home base. ~ Kir (and Ron)
Very true! The more places that get closed down the more congested other locations get creating a domino effect. I am glad we are doing this lifestyle now. We think in 10 years free camping may be a thing of the past. Ask Ron if the fear of heights is getting worse with age...it is for me! 😂
@@oneadVANtureatatime Interesting observation! What Ron calls his "healthy respect for heights" isn't getting stronger with age, but he sure does consider consequences! Since he is 76, we both know how important it is to keep his feet firmly planted. ~ Kir
Looks like a great hike, I have been wanting to do that trail since seeing it in a backpacking magazine in the 70's. Great information on the trash and water. Thanks for the heads up. I installed coil over shocks on both ends of the van. They have made the rough roads less jarring on the van and occupants. They are marginally better on pavement. 8 sites is ridiculous for that area. Always a thumbs up 👍
Coil-over shocks sound like a wonderful upgrade! We have been on so many washboard roads lately. I shut the back door the other day and our license plate fell to the ground. 😂 In the next couple videos we find better places to camp in this area I think you will enjoy. Lots of roads to explore with nearly no people! 😎
We find new things to do every time we go! Sedona is a wonderful location. Next time we hope to raft the Verde River. We hope you get to make some more awesome memories there. 😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime Yes, Spring is always windy in Northern Arizona. The weather folks say this is an essential part of the weather cycle that brings in the monsoon storms that start in July. Without the spring winds, we wouldn't get the change of wind direction that brings the moisture up from the Gulf of Mexico. We love the monsoons, but not these winds.
Not in a million years could I do the hike to the cave, I get weak kneed just watching the video. But I sure love to following along on all your trips.
I will have to admit I am ready for a break from the sudden drop-offs. In the last month we have went from one cliffside camping to the next.😂 Carrie loves these locations. 😎
Hi! Love you 3! We live in Sedona! We came here for 14 years ago from Ohio and visited eight years before that every year. We love it here. The 525 camping area and road to Palatki is extremely crowded. Mostly the ATVs and some campers, not all, have done so much damage to that area in the past 5 years. I believe that is the reason they are possible closing it for a while. Sedona residents welcome visitors, however lately many seem to have no respect for this beautiful land. There are over 120 hiking trails here and the most popular are now overcrowded with hikers and mountain bikes. There are other places to camp. Off Beaver Creek Rd. there are quite a few spots and some off the 17 on beaver creek. We would love to have you visit Sedona again each year!! Don’t make this your last visit! Please contact me. We would be glad to have you park with us for a while you visit. I was a concierge for a B&B for 8 years and know the area quite well! Wishing you safe happy travels! ❤️
Hi Francine! We can surely see why you moved to Sedona. We are drawn to this area as well. We have spent more time here than anywhere else in the past 4 years. I just love the red rock! Yes, that area around Palatki is getting hit too hard by side by sides. It appears the dust is killing all the trees right near the road. Thank you so much for the invitation! We would love to meet in person sometime. Maybe we could at least meet for lunch. We have found a couple of amazing locations to camp over by Clarkdale that fit our style of camping. We went one day and didn't even see another person! I can definitely see us returning now. We look forward to sharing more videos with you! 👱♂️👩🐕🎾❤️
@@oneadVANtureatatime Clarkdale has some great views of Sedona! Check out the copper museum when there! We can’t wait to meet you sometime!!! Please contact us when you are around! We would love to get together!!
Really a great spot. I think it’s just getting over used and people are not taking care of the area like they should. Hopefully the camping is not cut off too much. HAPPY TRAILS
For sure, Dan! We hope they limit camping to designated sites only. They need to have at least 50 of them though, not 8. 😂 plus they are renting too many ATVs per day. The trees are all dead on the side of the road from being covered with dust. The next couple of videos we find free camping that suits our style much better and it's still in this same area.😎
Good evening to you two!! Wow....what a treasure of an area!! In March, I was down in Phoenix for my annual work training. My wife came with me on the trip. On the way back to our home in Ouray CO, we diverted over through the Sedona area. I've been there before, but my wife hadn't . Whoaaa....she loved it! (I do too!!). It does look like I will have like 9 free days at the end of May/beginning of June. It is really tempting to do a trip on down to Sedona and hopefully take advantage of the backcountry boondocking (truck and 27ft self sufficient travel trailer). I guess my only concern, in addition to the area could possibly be closed off by then, is that it may be getting too hot in the day then. Though, I could run our a/c for a couple of hours off of our batteries, and maybe supplement it a bit with our small inverter generator. Fortunately.....it's a dry heat hehehe Another option is to head down to Valley of the Gods then; it is much closer to us. Safe travels!
I've camped there a few years ago and loved it. Went down from Flagstaff last weekend. And way to many people there for my liking. It's a beautiful area that won't be for long if there not some more restrictions put in place. Not just for Rv'ers. But also locals. Especially side x side businesses.
Home sweet home🥰. 💕 the music choice for your Subway Cave hike! Dave definitely would not have enjoyed that hike🙂. Nice to meet Megs! FYI all: Yavapai County, includes Sedona, is now under Total fire restrictions. Thankfully the Prescott 🔥 is 96% contained.
I would not have made that hike for sure! 😂 It was great timing for Megs to be there with us! That's a memory they will not forget. Dang! Total fire restriction now. I am not surprised with the strong unrelenting winds and warmer temps. Good to hear the Prescott fire is nearly done.👍
Sounds awesome! We found a couple more great locations to free camp in this area without all the people, depending on your rig size. We show them off in next week's video. We hope you will have a great time! 😀
I have loved your videos for a few years now & I hate to admit- I am confused. I have called you Carrie but I replayed your intro of this video and it sounds like your saying Karen. Can you help this grandma finally get it right? I do love all three of you & would consider it an honor to find your Sedona camp someday 🙏✌🌎💞
cool caves... but I wouldn't go on them...lol... I'll stay at the camper and play with Roodle... but looks like a great time, thanks for the video... safe travels from South Dakota
Thank you for the invite, Lucas! We are currently north of you working our way to the Northside of the Grand Canyon. We would love to meet up sometime! I will have to google the Narrows day-use area. We have been through Flagstaff so many times and I have not beard about that yet.👍😀
Even if they close the 525, or 525c, there are numerous other places to camp. The ranchers there at the 525 are lobbying against all of camping with the city/county.
After visiting Sedona three years ago I have often wondered how it became a town instead of a park. And now the downtown area is full of tacky tourist shops. I visited in late February and it was crowded. I’d never been anywhere that you had to pay to park at a trailhead. I don’t think closing 525 to camping or drastically limiting sites is the solution. The forest service writes on their website that the forest belongs to everyone. If I can think of alternative solutions, I know they can too.
We totally agree! It's crazy to have to pay to hike a trail. We are starting to see more of this in the past couple of years. Hopefully, they will come out with a reasonable solution and not close the camping and just leave 8 free sites. We did find some very nice free camping near Cottonwood coming out in our next couple of videos.👍
Love it when you do hikes with your friends. Are you guys ever going to meet up with the couple you guys did the 5 day hike with? They looked like a fun couple.
It's sad that the forest service sees a need to close the camping there. It's probably being loved to death. Hope that inspires people to be more aware of their camping impact.
Latest news is that due to severe fire danger, the 525 area will begin closures June 1st (or sooner) until further notice. You will need to plan accordingly.
Hopefully, they will leave a generous amount of free camping or not close at all. We found several places to camp that are amazing not far away from this location. With no other people or vehicles around! Much more our style. Video coming out soon 👍😀
Camped on the 525 Tues 3/22 and had a hard time finding a spot plus found the non-stop traffic and congestion at trailheads annoying. Guess I didn't look for site far enough off the road.
We made that same mistake our first few times coming to Sedona as well. We did find a couple of remote places to camp in this same area in our next couple of videos. Much more to our preferred style. 😀
I’d kill my self on a one wheel 😂. My son had a hover board thing and I lasted .3 seconds before I found the floor. Nice camp spot but that wind really picked up. Beautiful hike too 👍🏼 Cottonwood or Dead horse seems like a good option. I assume Sedona is just do overrun with tourists so that’s why. ✌🏼
Yes, Sedona is definitely overrun with tourists. We did fine some nice remote camping near Cottonwood that we enjoyed more. Coming up in the next couple videos. I tried my balance on a slack line once..is was quite comical. 😂
@@oneadVANtureatatime That is absolutely mind-blowing. Surely, the person at the ranger station was misinformed and/or failed to communicate clearly. Thanks again for the info.
So what is the emergency ??? This sounds like the town or state is trying generate revenue. This is not right and campers should stand up and fight for this to Not happen
I honestly don't think they want that many people free camping so close to town. They would rather have people staying at the motels and taking a shuttle to the trailheads. For how many people are camping I thought the area was fairly clean. The rental company are sending so many ATVs and jeeps down the road that the dust is killing the trees. I am guessing money is playing a part..just my opinion.
Pretty much! They really restricted the camping (unfortunately it did need some regulation) but did nothing to counter all the dust and damage from the pink jeep tours. I also have been hearing rumors that the road is not maintained…. Perfect for jeeps! Still sedona is such an amazing place. I think it should have been declared a national park.
If you've only been coming the last 4 years, you have not seen Sedona. You have seen a once Sacred place, turned into a place overrun with tours and tourists who don't care about the fragile desert, who litter and ruin the quality of life of those who have lived here for a long time. I don't mind sharing the beauty but there are so many who are destroying our beautiful home. You have a nice video but frankly, I wish people would stop making videos telling people to come here, it's only making it worse.
Sorry, I was unable to edit my last comment. The area is temporarily closed according to fs.usda.gov. They say “ These designated dispersed camping areas, slated to open summer 2022, will provide eight main areas for dispersed camping that will accommodate up to an estimated 200 campsites in total. “ I think you and the lady you spoke to were misunderstanding each other. Good news, I think.
THIS IS GREAT NEWS!!! Here is the summary:
The district’s goal and plan are for the new Forest Order to be signed and new designated dispersed camp system to be ready for use by the end of August.
Once the Forest Order is in place, campers and recreationists visiting Coconino National Forest in the area of Forest Road 525 will be able to use and camp in eight designated dispersed camping areas comprised of nearly 36 acres that accommodate about 10-35 campsites in each area, totaling 150-200 campsites-depending on the size of the vehicle, trailer, or RV.
HERE IS THE REST OF THE ARTICLE:
Copied from the US Forest Service. This affects dispersed camping on Road 525 west of Sedona AZ.
“New designated dispersed camping sites to be implemented west of Sedona”
SEDONA, Ariz., May 12, 2022 - In partnership with the National Forest Foundation, Coconino National Forest is excited to announce the signing of a decision memo that designates specific areas for dispersed camping and day-use sites in west #Sedona that will preserve and protect the entire area from overuse and negative impacts.
Signed by Red Rock District Ranger Amy Tinderholt, the West Sedona Designated Dispersed Camping and Day-use Areas Decision Memo allows for the first phase of construction to begin immediately. The first part of implementation will begin with construction and installation of information kiosks, signage, and boulder placement to block off user-created roads and campsites, while delineating specific areas for parking and legal dispersed camping. These preparatory activities will take place over the next several months.
“After years of planning and many meetings with residents, the City of Sedona Government, recreation-based businesses, and many stakeholders, we are proud to see so many efforts come to fruition and finally begin implementing this new endeavor,” said District Ranger Tinderholt. “This will help balance the use of this area, curb impacts to the land, protect natural resources and private property, while providing areas for visitors to enjoy camping.”
When installation of signage and placement of boulders is complete, a Forest Order will be put in place that prohibits dispersed camping and campfires in the 32,130-acre area that makes up most of the national forest in west Sedona. This aims to keep campers in the eight designated areas, reduce violations of the 14-day stay limit, protect the fragile desert landscape by prohibiting visitors from creating their own dispersed campsites and campfires, while also keeping them from trespassing on private land.
The district’s goal and plan are for the new Forest Order to be signed and new designated dispersed camp system to be ready for use by the end of August.
Once the Forest Order is in place, campers and recreationists visiting Coconino National Forest in the area of Forest Road 525 will be able to use and camp in eight designated dispersed camping areas comprised of nearly 36 acres that accommodate about 10-35 campsites in each area, totaling 150-200 campsites-depending on the size of the vehicle, trailer, or RV.
These first-come, first-served campsite areas will be accessed via state Route 89A, with five of those areas located along the popular access Forest Road 525, while two others are located along FR 89B, and the final area on FR 9570A. Four day-use parking areas and four information sites along these forest roads will also be designated.
A Forest Order has been in place since 1999 that prohibits camping and campfires on 50,520 acres of the district. With the addition of another Forest Order covering west Sedona, camping and campfires will be prohibited on an additional 32,130 acres, encompassing a total of 82,650 acres where camping and campfires will not be allowed.
“Meeting our August goal will depend on weather and a number of other factors,” said District Recreation Staff Officer Chris Johansen. “But we’re confident of this timeline and excited to begin implementing something that has been needed for some years now.”
Violations of the Code of Federal Regulations, including Forest Orders, campfire restrictions, and closures such as this can carry a fine of up to $5,000 and/or six months in jail.
Sedona Res for 5 yrs. It's been difficult to watch the overtourism here. And difficult to "pick a side". I have witnessed the destruction of trails on the 525 by atvs, jeeps and campers. It was shocking after not going out there for a few months. The sense of entitlement by some to do whatever the heck they want is unbelievable. Yet I believe the Forest is for all to enjoy. Enjoy. Not to destroy. Which is what is happening. There dont seem to be any restrictions by the city on #'s of biz to rent atvs. And the FS maintains that the land is for all to enjoy. I thought I had read somewhere that the FS was improving camping spots during the closure. And they are now being more diligent in moving people along when they have stayed beyond the allowed time. I can't find the article....of course. Please keep spreading the message of packing out garbage, staying on official trails and for the love of God stop stacking rocks! (Erosion and it's some small creatures home 🥰)
More people are camping now more then ever and have no respect for anything they dont care I have never seen anything like this its crazy.
We are caught somewhere in the middle as well. We think limiting camping to designated sites would help. But there is room for way more than 8. We estimate that 6 mile stretch of the 525 had over 100 vehicles while we were there. Maybe they could make 50 designated sites and start from there. We agree there are way to many rental side by sides and ATV's kicking up dust.
We can see why you moved to Sedona! We have spent more time here than any other place in the last 4 years. Stay tuned for our next couple of videos where we find free camping more to our style just outside of Clarkdale. 😀👍
I agree … 🌞❤️☮️
9:05 The "face" in the rock...what an startlingly gorgeous place!
We camped in that area a couple years back. We must have taken the long way in. We were in a large circular area with 1 other camper. The next morning, the hot air balloons came to visit and started landing all around us. What a beautiful area!
Nice Dan! We had a similar experience with the hot air balloons a couple of years ago! Carrie hopes to do a hot air balloon ride some time. It's on her bucket list. 😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime I hear that being a volunteer at the Albuquerque Balloon festival is cool and a great place to get a ride.
Oh and the Rogan’s too!! So many familiar faces!!! Good to see all of you!
We are currently at the eastern side of the Grand Canyon and ran into the guy with the blue promoter that serves free tea! I can't remember his name but I know you guys know him as well. 👍😎 If you guys want a remote quiet free campsite near Cottonwood. Let us know and we will send you the coordinates. 😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime oooh thanks! Will do! That’s James lol
I stayed at the same site you did back in early March. I recognize the turn in and the left fork at the bush. I too learned quickly to move off the main road. It certainly would be a shame if they closed that area. I feel the ATV vehicles do far more damage than the campers. Also, if you have a small van, the Palatki Indian parking area has a hose and faucet that the ranger said I could use to fill my water tank. It opens at 9:30am and parking fills fast, so you must arrive early to get close enough to the faucet. The area is small, so nothing larger than a van would fit.
As always, I enjoyed your video! Keep up the good work.
I walked to the Palatki parking area one day and saw that faucet! I didn't have the courage to ask if we could use it. That is good information, thank you! 👍😎
Just got the red dirt off the fans! Boy Carrie your video of our hike made it look a lot more scary on the edge! I sure hope you’re wrong about the closures as I would definitely go back. Glad we did it when we did! Thanks for a great time!
That red dirt takes a while to find it all! You were a pleasure to spend time with. I am so happy Carrie and you got to go for that hike! I couldn't have done it with my fear of heights. That's one of those lifetime memory moments. 😀😀😀
Beautiful music choices tiday for beautiful scenery..
Thank you, Victoria! 👍
The Sedona area is beautiful but the town is primarily a tourist destination. Heck no on the trail to the caves....but kudos for your adventurous spirit. Enjoy your videos 📹 and stay safe!
It's getting busier than ever in town. We try to avoid driving through as it takes about 30 minutes. We found another area to camp outside of Clarkdale that fits our style better. We went an entire day and did not see a single person. 😀
Rolled into a boondocking area a little south of 525 early April this year, and turned out I was in the preferred landing area for the balloons! Woke up one morning to the sound of the burners as they were landing 50' from my rig.
I'm a little jealous that you got The Subway almost to yourselves! It was crowded, but still amazing, when I hiked it.
Amazing area... hope we will all be welcome back.
OMG Carrie, that hike looked scary w all those ledges to hike on! Good job! Nice to meet Megs!😄 Thanks for another stellar video!
What a beautiful area! That cliff walk was gorgeous but absolutely terrifying... You were so close to the edge, OMG!😱🫣 I don't do well with super high heights.😬 Wonderful camp spot and beautiful video. 👍😁
Thank you, Marilyn! I am ready for a break from the cliff sides 😂 It's not going to happen though. We are currently at the grand canyon. 😜
@@oneadVANtureatatime Wow! That is one place I would love to go to! 👍😁
Lol hey Megs!! So glad y’all got to spend some time with together:)
We are actually parked just up from that spot on 525C right now.
Love you two! Thank you for the videos.
Thank you, Rebecca! 😀
That was an epic hike. A visit from New and old friends is always nice. Thank you so much for sharing. I'm not sure when you hit 25k but congrats. I aposolutly love this channel. Safe travels.
Thank you, Lori! I knew we were getting close to 25k subs but didn't notice. 👍😂 We are hoping to catch a break and increase our subscriber count a litter more rapidly.
@@oneadVANtureatatime I've heard from other channels that if you put at least 3 #'s in the description of the video that helps. If someone searches for anything with just one word you have in your # it will recommend your video to them. I've also heard them say make a bunch of shorts. It puts your channel in a different algorithm.
Doing a search it looks like they did an emergency closing last year due to high winds and dry conditions and elevated risk of fire. Likely keeping it down to a minimum of people that search and rescue would have to try to get in and remove people in case of fire. This is understandable.
Yes! Last year they closed all nation forests down in the entire state of Arizona due to fire danger. I am starting to think they may do this again by how hot and dry its been already.
So beautiful! Thanks for the inspiration to get out in nature-wherever you are!
Thank you! 😀
I love caves, but I'm leery of drops😬 thanks for that trip Carrie. Sedona looks wonderful, although I'm not fond of wind....Thanks again for all your information.
Not sure what's going on with the wind this year but we have rarely gotten a day without it! It's been a challenge to get the drone up in the air. We love caves also! There is a couple of them in South Dakota we want to check out someday. I agree about the drop offs! Carrie is fearless. 😀
We lived in Camp Verde. I was pregnant the whole time and never got to explore those red rocks! But I will go back!
Very nice and colorful hike to the Subway Cave. Thanks for sharing............
Thank you, Bryan! 👍
Thank you for your great videos! I am soo looking forward to this summer! I have a great long route planned, Williams, Flag area, down FR 82, down to rim road and across, show low area, alpine area, 191 south, mount Graham and the Gila national forest, and back much the same way to flag. I can't wait for Mount Graham @ 10,000 ft. during Monsoon season. I am going to get that elusive lighting pic.
Awesome Glenn! We just got finished with the rim road all the way to Show Low. Mount Graham at 10000 feet during the monsoons sounds fantastic! I want to do that! If you get the lightning shot please share. 😀😀👍
We were up at Mt Graham about 7-8 months ago. Tons of fire damage up there. Was so sad. Some of our favorite boondock spots gone.
Also their doing lots of road work on the way up. I’m sure it’s still in progress. They had lots to do.
Farther at the way top it’s stunning and the little lake is fun to fish at Riggs Lake.
Which is next to Riggs Flat campground.
I’m sure you’ll find some little spot
You can see all of AZ way up there
👍
This is what it says in that article...
The USFS will set up emergency closures for camping and fire-starting around and along Forest Roads 525 and 89B. Beginning in late March or early April, there will be only eight designated camping sites in the forest with around 200 spots total.
The rest of the forest will be completely closed off to public camping. This will be on a first-come-first-serve basis, with no services at the campsite.
Eight areas..... 200 spots.
+Jane T yes we read that as well. When we tried to clarify this with the woman at the rangers office who answered the phone she stated there would only be 8 spots on the 525. I think she is misinformed….at least I hope so! We are all for protecting our public lands but even at 200 spots total 🟰 that is nothing in a national forest of approximately 1.8 million acres. While we were recently on the Mongollon Rim (also coconino NF) we noticed almost all side national forest roads were closed. We are not opposed to designated sites in high traffic areas within reason. Maybe there is more to the story that we are not privy to…. I’m very scared for fire season this year…. Perhaps this is a preemptive strategy.
Beautiful video Carrie and Dave &Roodle😍 Carrie please tell your mom our Prayers are with her. Wishing her a Happy Mothers Day🌺🌷😃👍🙋♀️. Carrie and Dave & Roodle stay Safe. Thank You🌺🌷😃🙋♀️
Thank you for the prayers, Jean! We will pass on the Happy Mothers Day! 👱♂️👩🐕🎾❤️
Guess you're not afraid of heights! Great work - beautiful video.
Carrie is fearless when it comes to heights..not me 😂😂😂
Arizona is the most beautiful state in the Southwest. Another great video you guys. That cave is so cool too. Great shot from inside of it. Nice joke on the one wheel Dave! We'd be in the dirt.
You might do better on the one wheel than me 😂 My balance is poor. We hope to get to meet you guys in the near future! I hope you found some shelter from this crazy wind, it never seems to stop this year.😀
Sounds like Alabama Hills
Took it down to a small number of sites. Park for the day and find one of the few spots if lucky
Or go to the campground down the main road
But it is in CA
We heard they did that to Alabama Hills! It was open and super clean a few years ago when we stayed. We are sad to hear about it. There seem to be more campers than ever now, we wonder if it was getting abused.
Soooo glad Dave didn't go on that hike! Dear Husband Ron wouldn't have gone near that cliff on a bet either. Once we drove up to Jerome when we lived in Phoenix; from the bottom to the top he didn't open his eyes once, since he was on the "outside"!
Sedona is so unique and magical, even among other Arizona sights-to-see. So great to share it with friends, including the I-couldn't-care-less Juno! (Loved the cartoon conversation between Juno and Roodle.)
If the agencies start shutting down more and more camping sites, it creates all sorts of problems for nomads... I can see why many are looking for a home base. ~ Kir (and Ron)
Very true! The more places that get closed down the more congested other locations get creating a domino effect. I am glad we are doing this lifestyle now. We think in 10 years free camping may be a thing of the past. Ask Ron if the fear of heights is getting worse with age...it is for me! 😂
@@oneadVANtureatatime Interesting observation! What Ron calls his "healthy respect for heights" isn't getting stronger with age, but he sure does consider consequences! Since he is 76, we both know how important it is to keep his feet firmly planted. ~ Kir
Those shots in that canyon were to die for! Thanks for literally risking your life!
Thank you, Bert! Even if I didn't have a cactus stuck in my foot I was not going to hike this one. Carrie is fearless. 😂
Looks like a great hike, I have been wanting to do that trail since seeing it in a backpacking magazine in the 70's.
Great information on the trash and water. Thanks for the heads up.
I installed coil over shocks on both ends of the van. They have made the rough roads less jarring on the van and occupants. They are marginally better on pavement.
8 sites is ridiculous for that area.
Always a thumbs up 👍
Coil-over shocks sound like a wonderful upgrade! We have been on so many washboard roads lately. I shut the back door the other day and our license plate fell to the ground. 😂 In the next couple videos we find better places to camp in this area I think you will enjoy. Lots of roads to explore with nearly no people! 😎
Great pictures. I’m with Dave. I could never have walked on that shelf.
I am glad I didn't go after watching Carrie’s hike. 😂
A Roodle-mercial!! Go Dave!!
😀😀🐕🎾
I saw your van at the Grand Canyon a couple days ago and decided to subscribe. Excited to see that vlog soon.
Good old Arizona wind!!!! Great video. ☺️
Is it always this windy in Arizona? We can't escape it this year. 😂 Very few days with just light wind this visit.
love Sedona! hope to get out there again someday soon.
We find new things to do every time we go! Sedona is a wonderful location. Next time we hope to raft the Verde River. We hope you get to make some more awesome memories there. 😀
Wonderful footage! We'll done!
Thank you, Ernie! Is it normally this windy in Arizona? We have had almost no nonwindy days in over a month. 😂
@@oneadVANtureatatime Yes, Spring is always windy in Northern Arizona. The weather folks say this is an essential part of the weather cycle that brings in the monsoon storms that start in July. Without the spring winds, we wouldn't get the change of wind direction that brings the moisture up from the Gulf of Mexico. We love the monsoons, but not these winds.
Not in a million years could I do the hike to the cave, I get weak kneed just watching the video. But I sure love to following along on all your trips.
I will have to admit I am ready for a break from the sudden drop-offs. In the last month we have went from one cliffside camping to the next.😂 Carrie loves these locations. 😎
Hi! Love you 3! We live in Sedona! We came here for 14 years ago from Ohio and visited eight years before that every year.
We love it here. The 525 camping area and road to Palatki is extremely crowded. Mostly the ATVs and some campers, not all, have done so much damage to that area in the past 5 years. I believe that is the reason they are possible closing it for a while.
Sedona residents welcome visitors, however lately many seem to have no respect for this beautiful land.
There are over 120 hiking trails here and the most popular are now overcrowded with hikers and mountain bikes.
There are other places to camp. Off Beaver Creek Rd. there are quite a few spots and some off the 17 on beaver creek.
We would love to have you visit Sedona again each year!! Don’t make this your last visit!
Please contact me. We would be glad to have you park with us for a while you visit. I was a concierge for a B&B for 8 years and know the area quite well!
Wishing you safe happy travels! ❤️
Hi Francine! We can surely see why you moved to Sedona. We are drawn to this area as well. We have spent more time here than anywhere else in the past 4 years. I just love the red rock! Yes, that area around Palatki is getting hit too hard by side by sides. It appears the dust is killing all the trees right near the road.
Thank you so much for the invitation! We would love to meet in person sometime. Maybe we could at least meet for lunch. We have found a couple of amazing locations to camp over by Clarkdale that fit our style of camping. We went one day and didn't even see another person! I can definitely see us returning now. We look forward to sharing more videos with you! 👱♂️👩🐕🎾❤️
@@oneadVANtureatatime Clarkdale has some great views of Sedona! Check out the copper museum when there!
We can’t wait to meet you sometime!!! Please contact us when you are around! We would love to get together!!
Really a great spot. I think it’s just getting over used and people are not taking care of the area like they should. Hopefully the camping is not cut off too much. HAPPY TRAILS
For sure, Dan! We hope they limit camping to designated sites only. They need to have at least 50 of them though, not 8. 😂 plus they are renting too many ATVs per day. The trees are all dead on the side of the road from being covered with dust. The next couple of videos we find free camping that suits our style much better and it's still in this same area.😎
Good evening to you two!! Wow....what a treasure of an area!! In March, I was down in Phoenix for my annual work training. My wife came with me on the trip. On the way back to our home in Ouray CO, we diverted over through the Sedona area. I've been there before, but my wife hadn't . Whoaaa....she loved it! (I do too!!).
It does look like I will have like 9 free days at the end of May/beginning of June. It is really tempting to do a trip on down to Sedona and hopefully take advantage of the backcountry boondocking (truck and 27ft self sufficient travel trailer). I guess my only concern, in addition to the area could possibly be closed off by then, is that it may be getting too hot in the day then. Though, I could run our a/c for a couple of hours off of our batteries, and maybe supplement it a bit with our small inverter generator. Fortunately.....it's a dry heat hehehe
Another option is to head down to Valley of the Gods then; it is much closer to us.
Safe travels!
I've camped there a few years ago and loved it. Went down from Flagstaff last weekend. And way to many people there for my liking. It's a beautiful area that won't be for long if there not some more restrictions put in place. Not just for Rv'ers. But also locals. Especially side x side businesses.
We completely agree. The dust from the side by sides are killing the trees along the road. Just too many people for such a small area.
Home sweet home🥰.
💕 the music choice for your Subway Cave hike! Dave definitely would not have enjoyed that hike🙂. Nice to meet Megs!
FYI all: Yavapai County, includes Sedona, is now under Total fire restrictions. Thankfully the Prescott 🔥 is 96% contained.
I would not have made that hike for sure! 😂 It was great timing for Megs to be there with us! That's a memory they will not forget. Dang! Total fire restriction now. I am not surprised with the strong unrelenting winds and warmer temps. Good to hear the Prescott fire is nearly done.👍
@@oneadVANtureatatime btw: charged to 95% in 13 hours and down just 1% after 12 days! TY both🙏
That is awesome about the goal zero!! I wouldn’t be surprised if you got at least another year out of it!
Love the 525 and Sedona!!
Right on! We found a couple more good places to camp without the crowds near by as well. All in next weeks video.😀
I hope is stays open, one of my bucket list destinations!
We do also, Scott. We found a more remote place to free camp in this same area. More details in next week's video.👍😀
We’ll be there in May can’t wait!!
Sounds awesome! We found a couple more great locations to free camp in this area without all the people, depending on your rig size. We show them off in next week's video. We hope you will have a great time! 😀
I have loved your videos for a few years now & I hate to admit- I am confused. I have called you Carrie but I replayed your intro of this video and it sounds like your saying Karen. Can you help this grandma finally get it right? I do love all three of you & would consider it an honor to find your Sedona camp someday 🙏✌🌎💞
It was probably a poor audio moment on our part 😂 You are right it's Carrie 👍
Meg, thank you! I will take a risk and go for adventure!
cool caves... but I wouldn't go on them...lol... I'll stay at the camper and play with Roodle... but looks like a great time, thanks for the video... safe travels from South Dakota
If your ever in flagstaff come to the narrows day use and say hi 👋
Thank you for the invite, Lucas! We are currently north of you working our way to the Northside of the Grand Canyon. We would love to meet up sometime! I will have to google the Narrows day-use area. We have been through Flagstaff so many times and I have not beard about that yet.👍😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime 13 miles south of Flagstaff near Lake Mary, second year as a host at this amazing site. Ill be here till October😃
Even if they close the 525, or 525c, there are numerous other places to camp. The ranchers there at the 525 are lobbying against all of camping with the city/county.
Beautiful Sedona, but watching out for prickly spine is a must.
I had one punch right through my shoe into my foot. 😂 Roodle is better at avoiding them now then I am. 🤪
After visiting Sedona three years ago I have often wondered how it became a town instead of a park. And now the downtown area is full of tacky tourist shops. I visited in late February and it was crowded. I’d never been anywhere that you had to pay to park at a trailhead. I don’t think closing 525 to camping or drastically limiting sites is the solution. The forest service writes on their website that the forest belongs to everyone. If I can think of alternative solutions, I know they can too.
We totally agree! It's crazy to have to pay to hike a trail. We are starting to see more of this in the past couple of years. Hopefully, they will come out with a reasonable solution and not close the camping and just leave 8 free sites. We did find some very nice free camping near Cottonwood coming out in our next couple of videos.👍
..cool video keep up the great content.. Thank you…
Thank you! 👍😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime Thank you very mutch... have a nice day.... see you….
Love it when you do hikes with your friends. Are you guys ever going to meet up with the couple you guys did the 5 day hike with? They looked like a fun couple.
We have been trying to meet up with that couple for the past couple of months. We seem to be heading different directions. We miss those guys. 😀
It's sad that the forest service sees a need to close the camping there. It's probably being loved to death. Hope that inspires people to be more aware of their camping impact.
That's a good way to put it. They certainly need to limit ATV traffic and the number of campers. 👍
Latest news is that due to severe fire danger, the 525 area will begin closures June 1st (or sooner) until further notice. You will need to plan accordingly.
Amazing area! 🤞🙏 hope it stays open!!!
Same here! In the next couple of videos, we find some remote places to camp in the area that we enjoyed more than the 525. 😎
@@oneadVANtureatatime yay!! Y'all really find the best spots!!
Amazing trail!
Hoping this isn't the beginning of a trend... Ran across a fellow in NM who asked "How much longer are they going to allow this boondocking?"
How sad. 😔
Hopefully, they will leave a generous amount of free camping or not close at all. We found several places to camp that are amazing not far away from this location. With no other people or vehicles around! Much more our style. Video coming out soon 👍😀
@@oneadVANtureatatime Awesome. I was wondering if I could just go further out than that location. I don't mind some rough roads. 👍
Camped on the 525 Tues 3/22 and had a hard time finding a spot plus found the non-stop traffic and congestion at trailheads annoying. Guess I didn't look for site far enough off the road.
We made that same mistake our first few times coming to Sedona as well. We did find a couple of remote places to camp in this same area in our next couple of videos. Much more to our preferred style. 😀
The 525 is like 20 miles of campsites, from the 89a all the way to Honanki.....
How didn't you find a campsite??? LOL
Have you ever done the balloon ride? You get amazing photos from there !
We have not! It's on Carrie’s bucket list to do. That must have been fun..and maybe a bit scary. 👍😎
I’d kill my self on a one wheel 😂. My son had a hover board thing and I lasted .3 seconds before I found the floor. Nice camp spot but that wind really picked up. Beautiful hike too 👍🏼
Cottonwood or Dead horse seems like a good option. I assume Sedona is just do overrun with tourists so that’s why. ✌🏼
Yes, Sedona is definitely overrun with tourists. We did fine some nice remote camping near Cottonwood that we enjoyed more. Coming up in the next couple videos. I tried my balance on a slack line once..is was quite comical. 😂
Not made clear: When the USFS speaks of "8 designated sites" for camping do they mean 8 actual camp sites, or do they mean 8 designated camping AREAS?
We have the recording of the phone call from the ranger station. She said 8 campsites total. Let's just hope she was misinformed.
@@oneadVANtureatatime That is absolutely mind-blowing. Surely, the person at the ranger station was misinformed and/or failed to communicate clearly. Thanks again for the info.
I think the only way you could get most people interested in forests is if you could refine trees into fuel for their car.
Yes! There is no lack of interest. 😂
So what is the emergency ??? This sounds like the town or state is trying generate revenue. This is not right and campers should stand up and fight for this to Not happen
I would guess the town of Sedona and revenue are playing a huge part like you suggested. Just my opinion.
Bring me back some turquois jewelry, please?
I need to find the turquoise first. 😂 I do like rock hunting 👍
Lol.girls day out...because they wore shoes! Lol
Yikes, Id have stayed home with my dog too! Beautiful but......
Why close it? For repairs?
I honestly don't think they want that many people free camping so close to town. They would rather have people staying at the motels and taking a shuttle to the trailheads. For how many people are camping I thought the area was fairly clean. The rental company are sending so many ATVs and jeeps down the road that the dust is killing the trees. I am guessing money is playing a part..just my opinion.
So, Sedona wants tourists and their money but doesn’t really care for Van Lifers or campers. Bummer!
Pretty much! They really restricted the camping (unfortunately it did need some regulation) but did nothing to counter all the dust and damage from the pink jeep tours. I also have been hearing rumors that the road is not maintained…. Perfect for jeeps! Still sedona is such an amazing place. I think it should have been declared a national park.
@@oneadVANtureatatime indeed it should be a National Park.
If you've only been coming the last 4 years, you have not seen Sedona. You have seen a once Sacred place, turned into a place overrun with tours and tourists who don't care about the fragile desert, who litter and ruin the quality of life of those who have lived here for a long time. I don't mind sharing the beauty but there are so many who are destroying our beautiful home. You have a nice video but frankly, I wish people would stop making videos telling people to come here, it's only making it worse.
I hear what you are saying and completely understand. I would love to go back in time and visit this area 20 years ago. 👍
Sorry, I was unable to edit my last comment. The area is temporarily closed according to fs.usda.gov. They say “ These designated dispersed camping areas, slated to open summer 2022, will provide eight main areas for dispersed camping that will accommodate up to an estimated 200 campsites in total. “ I think you and the lady you spoke to were misunderstanding each other. Good news, I think.