Will there be an EMERGENCY camping closure of the 525c in Sedona? Hiking to subway cave! 

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 🥰)

9:05 The "face" in the rock...what an startlingly gorgeous place!

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.

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!

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!

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.

Oh and the Rogan’s too!! So many familiar faces!!! Good to see all of you!

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. 👍😁

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.

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.

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.

Beautiful music choices tiday for beautiful scenery..

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!

We lived in Camp Verde. I was pregnant the whole time and never got to explore those red rocks! But I will go 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!

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.

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.

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.

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🌺🌷😃🙋‍♀️

So beautiful! Thanks for the inspiration to get out in nature-wherever you are!

Those shots in that canyon were to die for! Thanks for literally risking your life!

Love you two! Thank you for the videos.

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)

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.

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. ☺️

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

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.

Very nice and colorful hike to the Subway Cave. Thanks for sharing............

Meg, thank you! I will take a risk and go for adventure!

Guess you're not afraid of heights! Great work - beautiful video.

Great pictures. I’m with Dave. I could never have walked on that shelf.

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

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 👍

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!

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 hope is stays open, one of my bucket list destinations!

love Sedona! hope to get out there again someday soon.

Love the 525 and Sedona!!

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’ll be there in May can’t wait!!

Wonderful footage! We'll done!

A Roodle-mercial!! Go Dave!!

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! ❤️

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.

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

Beautiful Sedona, but watching out for prickly spine is a must.

Amazing area! 🤞🙏 hope it stays open!!!

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.

If your ever in flagstaff come to the narrows day use and say hi 👋

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 🙏✌🌎💞

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.

Amazing trail!

..cool video keep up the great content.. Thank you…

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.

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.

Have you ever done the balloon ride? You get amazing photos from there !

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?"

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.

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. ✌🏼

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?

I think the only way you could get most people interested in forests is if you could refine trees into fuel for their car.

How sad. 😔

Bring me back some turquois jewelry, please?

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

Yikes, Id have stayed home with my dog too! Beautiful but......

Lol.girls day out...because they wore shoes! Lol

Why close it? For repairs?

So, Sedona wants tourists and their money but doesn’t really care for Van Lifers or campers. Bummer!

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.