Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Pearce? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Pearce, including photos, reviews, and tips. Each dispersed site offers quick access to one or more of Pearce's most popular destinations.
Part of the Douglas Ranger District
Happy Camp Trail in Arizona is a hidden gem for those who enjoy dispersed camping. Nestled not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie, this spot offers a serene escape with plenty of space between campsites. The area is free to use and allows campfires, making it a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
One of the standout features here is the free-roaming cattle. Many visitors have enjoyed watching the cows and even capturing some great videos of them. The landscape is dotted with fascinating granite rocks, perfect for exploring and climbing. If you're into history, you'll appreciate the remnants of Native American activity scattered around.
The road to the campsite is a compacted dirt road, which can get bumpy. If you have an AWD or 4x4, you'll have an easier time reaching the more secluded spots. For those with bigger rigs, it's wise to scout ahead as the sand can get deep and the turns tight.
While there are no hookups or drinking water available, the area does have toilets. Just be prepared to pack out your trash as there are no trash facilities. Cell signal is decent with T-Mobile, so you can stay connected if needed.
Overall, Happy Camp Trail offers a peaceful and scenic camping experience with plenty of opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Whether you're here for a quick overnight stay or a longer retreat, this spot is sure to leave you with some great memories.
Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources.
Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska).
Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
Willcox Playa is best known for its wintering population of sandhill cranes that migrate to the playa in large numbers, particularly in wet winters. It is not unusual to see several thousand cranes in winter at the power plant ponds viewing area on the southwest side of the playa, or at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s 600-acre Wildlife Area on the southeast side. The cranes feed and court, but after February migrate to their summer breeding grounds in the northern Great Plains.
Birding is best from mid-October through March, when more than 15 species of birds of prey may also be found here. The annual Wings over Willcox Birding and Nature Festival takes place in nearby Willcox each January and features guided tours.
Camping: Overnight public camping is allowed in designated areas only, for no more than 14 days within a 45-day period. There are no facilities at the Wildlife Area.
Restrictions: Open fires are allowed in designated areas only, Parking area only. No firewood cutting or gathering.
You may camp outside of developed areas across most of the Coronado National Forest at no charge. We recommend that you stop in to one of our five ranger stations to pick up a free travel management map so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted.
Potable water, restrooms, and other amenities are not available at dispersed sites. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas.
The Coronado National Forest has a 14-day stay limit on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pearce, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pearce, AZ is Dragoon Mountains with a 5-star rating from 10 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pearce, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 35 dispersed camping locations near Pearce, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
