About Petrified Forest Wilderness Camping
220 million years ago, a vast forest fell and was buried, its wood slowly replaced by quartz crystal over
millions of years. Today you can sleep under the stars in the Painted Desert, surrounded by logs of
gemstone-like petrified wood in shades of purple, red, and gold — one of Earth's most otherworldly landscapes.
Highlights
- Ancient 225-million-year-old petrified wood throughout the park
- Painted Desert — natural color banding of Chinle Formation
- Puerco Pueblo — 650-year-old ancient Pueblo ruins
- Blue Mesa for the most colorful badlands scenery
- Wilderness camping in complete solitude
Directions & How to Get There
From Holbrook, AZ: Take I-40 E to Exit 311, then US-180 N directly into the park's south entrance. From
Flagstaff: Take I-40 E approximately 110 miles to Exit 311. The park road (28 miles) connects the south and
north entrances — both accessible from I-40.
Nearby Attractions
- Blue Mesa (10 mi from south entrance)
- Crystal Forest (6 mi from south entrance)
- Painted Desert Rim Trail (north entrance area)
- Puerco Pueblo ruins (10 mi)
- Winslow, AZ (50 mi, historic Route 66 town)
Insider Tips
- Taking petrified wood from the park is a serious federal offense — buy it from private land shops outside
- The backcountry permit process is straightforward — just stop at the visitor center
- Visit in spring or fall — summer temperatures can be extreme
- Combine with Canyon de Chelly NM for an incredible northeastern Arizona circuit
Best Time to Visit
Best months: March–May, September–November
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Moderate (short hike off road required)
What to Pack for Arizona Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route