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Dispersed Camping

Badger Springs

5 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Badger Springs, near Black Canyon City, Arizona, is a solid spot for those looking to enjoy some dispersed camping. It’s a straightforward area with a big open parking space that serves as a base for your outdoor adventures, making it easy to set up camp and hit the trails.

This location is great for boondocking, especially if you're cruising along I-17. Visitors have mentioned that while the freeway is nearby, it’s not too intrusive, allowing for a peaceful night’s sleep under the stars. There are a couple of vault toilets available, which is a nice touch for those who prefer some basic facilities.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Agua Fria National Monument offers fantastic hiking and exploration opportunities. Reviewers have enjoyed the chance to stretch their legs on the Badger Springs trail, although the views can vary depending on the season. Some campers have noted that the area can get a bit crowded, so if you’re looking for solitude, you might want to plan your visit accordingly.

Pets are welcome here, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, as there are no trash services available. Whether you're stopping for a night or planning a longer stay, Badger Springs provides a laid-back atmosphere for your camping experience.

Fee Info

None

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Location

Badger Springs is located in Arizona

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Interstate 17, north of Phoenix, Arizona, take exit #256, the Badger Springs exit. Follow the rough, sometimes muddy gravel road for approximately one mile east to the trailhead parking area.

Coordinates

34.23189587 N
112.101992 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Dispersed camping near Crown King

Dispersed camping near Crown King

1 hr 8 min away

Cave Creek Group Site

Cave Creek Group Site

1 hr 44 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 3 users
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 1 user

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews

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5 Reviews

William M.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Nov. 19, 2024

Wouldn't suggest

As soon as I got there, I got the dog out and what do we immediately find? Used drug needles littering the ground around a fire ring. Definitely not somewhere I'd feel comfortable staying the night.

Month of VisitNovember
G
Reviewed Mar. 16, 2021

Nothing special

Big open parking area before heading to trail head. A little tight getting to the trailhead with small sites off the road where I saw a few van dwellers and just before the trail head was a vaulted toilet, I never checked it out. Once you made it to the trailhead, there’s a parking area and if to continue on a small road from the parking area it will take you to where most of the sites are located. Not very many, only a few unless you don’t mind being on top of each other and only a couple are somewhat level. If you have 4 wheel drive and tent camping, then you can continue on, but it’s pretty steep and flat level ground is at a minimum. The view didn’t seem too special, probably wrong time of the year (March). You can hike down Badger Springs trail that leads you down to Badger Springs wash where theirs only puddles here and there and a couple areas that might be more than a couple feet deep. I wasn’t impressed, but I was able to stretch out the legs. If you need to shut down for the night and don’t mind traffic noise, the best bet would be the big open parking area before Badger Springs rd. Otherwise most rv’s could make it down to the trailhead and spend the day there, just be careful, it’s like a one lane road. I had 1-2 bars on T-Mobile and 2-3 on Verizon.

  • Review photo of Badger Springs by George K., March 16, 2021
  • Review photo of Badger Springs by George K., March 16, 2021
  • Review photo of Badger Springs by George K., March 16, 2021
  • (4) View All
AThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Dec. 12, 2020

Free BLM dispersed camping

This is a good boondocking spot if you’re driving along the I-17. We spent one night here. The freeway is close enough to here in the background but far enough that you can easily fall asleep. There are a couple vault toilets when you pull off the pavement. A few other vehicles were camping in the area. We had good AT&T / Verizon service in the area.

  • Review photo of Badger Springs by Aaron , December 12, 2020
  • Review photo of Badger Springs by Aaron , December 12, 2020
Showing results 1-5 of 5 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Badger Springs Recreation Area located in Arizona?

Badger Springs Recreation Area is located along Interstate 17 in Arizona, within the Agua Fria National Monument. It's positioned as a convenient stop for travelers driving on I-17, offering easy access for vehicles. The area serves as both a recreation site and a trailhead with parking facilities. Its proximity to the freeway makes it accessible, though you can still hear some background road noise from the camping areas.

What hiking opportunities are available at Badger Springs Trail?

Badger Springs Trail offers an accessible hiking experience that leads through the Agua Fria National Monument. The trail begins at a dedicated trailhead with a parking area. Hikers can explore the natural features of the area, with the path winding through the desert landscape. The trail provides opportunities for exploration and enjoying the unique ecosystem of this region. It's a good option for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of the monument during their stay.

What wildlife might I encounter at Badger Springs Recreation Area?

Badger Springs Recreation Area, situated within the Agua Fria National Monument, hosts desert wildlife typical of Arizona's ecosystem. While specific wildlife sightings aren't guaranteed, visitors should remain alert and respect the natural habitat. The area's varied landscape provides homes for desert-adapted species. Remember to maintain appropriate distance from any wildlife you encounter and never approach or feed animals. Properly store food and dispose of trash to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.

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