Rocky terrain and elevated views define this dispersed camping area in Tonto National Forest. First Water Canyon Overlook provides eight uneven sites accessible via a washed-out road that becomes challenging at a tight turn, making it unsuitable for RVs over 30 feet. One camper successfully navigated the route with a 26-foot toy hauler and F250 truck.
The campground attracts overlanding enthusiasts for short stays, though longer visits are possible with no posted time limits. Hard, rocky ground makes leveling difficult, and no services or hookups are available. Cell service reaches the area. The location serves as a hiking base, and campers can explore dispersed camping near Tonto National Forest for additional options in the surrounding forest.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingFirst Water Canyon Overlook is located in Arizona
Coordinates
33.74240422 N
110.9671331 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/5/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/5/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
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
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if First Water Canyon Overlook needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 6 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 2 hrs 39 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs 53 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 3 hrs 3 min from Flagstaff, AZ


