This free dispersed camping area sits along Hackamore Road, an off-highway vehicle trail that requires high clearance and sturdy suspension to navigate safely. The US Forest Service manages multiple sites scattered across open terrain within Tonto National Forest, where campers can set up without reservations and stay connected with reliable cell service.
The road conditions dominate most conversations about this spot. Francis D. managed the route in a rear-wheel-drive Xterra but recommends securing loose items for the bumpy ride. Several reviewers describe potholes and uneven surfaces that challenge even lifted vehicles, with one camper getting stuck despite having four-wheel drive. The main camping area spreads across flat, open ground where groups often gather on weekends.
Mountain views frame the camping area, and numerous trails branch out for hiking, horseback riding, and ATV exploration. The nearby Goldfield Ghost Town provides a historical attraction within walking distance. Coyotes vocalize in the early morning hours, and OHV enthusiasts frequent the trails, particularly on weekends when noise levels increase. Stone fire rings mark established sites throughout the area.
Campers seeking more privacy can venture uphill beyond the main flat area, though the terrain becomes more challenging. The proximity to Apache Junction means some town noise carries to the camping area, and weekend crowds bring additional activity. For those planning extended stays in the region, campgrounds around Tonto National Forest offer additional options with varying access requirements and amenity levels.
This spot works best for self-sufficient campers with capable vehicles who don't mind road noise and weekend crowds in exchange for free camping with mountain access.
Description
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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHackamore Road Dispersed is located in Arizona near Apache Junction
Coordinates
33.46603865 N
111.50743175 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/24/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/24/26- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/24/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/24/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 9 usersLast on 5/24/26
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/24/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
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 Hackamore Road Dispersed needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 56 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 1 hr 59 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 2 hrs 1 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs 42 min from Flagstaff, AZ
