BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area
Reviewed Jan. 22, 2022

Overlander High Clearance only

This BLM dispersed camping area access is about MP 147.5 in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 8. This is a two track road that leaves the highway and goes thru a gate, and EXTREME CAUTION is advised slowing down and leaving the freeway due to no off ramp or signs here to alert traffic behind you. Not recommended for RVs or TTs due to the risky access off the interstate. Best suited for Overlander types and high clearance trucks/vans. This area was a pleasant surprise and the access road #8042a is best due to good gravel surface and interesting camping areas. Suggest going on #8042a for 1.2 miles to the abandoned windmill/tank area. There is a large rock borrow pit midway if you are a shooter. This windmill area is behind a ridge from I 8 and reduces the highway truck noise.

Free dispersed camping, no water. Info kiosk at pin location. Note that this area is isolated with little traffic and other campers and would not advise solo camping due to warnings about illegal smuggling. Go with buddies and go heavy.

Month of VisitJanuary
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022
  • Review photo of BLM Sonoran Desert National Monument - Road #8042 Dispersed Camping Area by Greg L., January 22, 2022