Primitive camping near Benson, Arizona provides access to several Bureau of Land Management and National Forest Service sites across the Sonoran Desert highlands. At elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet, these dispersed camping areas experience significant temperature swings between day and night. Most locations feature mesquite trees and rolling grasslands with mountain backdrops rather than dense saguaro forests.
What to do
Explore historic sites: Empire Ranch provides a fascinating glimpse into Arizona ranching history. "The ranch is 44,000 acres boastes lots of wildlife elk, antelope, coyotes, kangaroo rats, and roadrunners. The ranch house can be toured along with several bunkhouse and barns. Several western movies have been shot on the ranch," notes Jamie P. from Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for desert wildlife in the grasslands. "It reminds me of African plains. It's a higher elevation grassland that makes you feel like you're anywhere but in Arizona. Cows roam, so be aware. So do antelope and deer," shares Kelly B. about Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping.
Rock climbing: The Dragoon Mountains attract climbers from across the region. "Beautiful rock backdrops and views with lots of trails. There is much dispersed camping and although the area can be quite busy, there's lots of space and privacy can be had," explains Rachel about camping at Dragoon Mountains.
What campers like
Mountain views: The dramatic rock formations create striking backdrops. "Beautiful views and nice campsites. USFS Coronado National Forest controlled. Ranger came by a day after we arrived and checked in with us. 14 day limit on staying here and it seems like it is enforced," reports Deborah C. about Dragoon Mountains.
Quiet isolation: Many sites offer genuine solitude away from crowds. "We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks. Pretty popular place, most spots along the road were occupied but seemed like there were a couple open. Rangers stopped by mid day," writes Livvy about Dragoon Mountains.
Stargazing: The clear desert skies provide exceptional night viewing. "Followed Middlemarch to 687 and picked our own site - plenty of sites to be found, all spaced out really nicely apart from one another. Quiet camping, gorgeous backdrop of Dragoon Mountains, incredible star gazing! About ten minutes from Tombstone," shares Audrey from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. "The washboard road was really rough and took me forty minutes to go 15 miles. The sites are totally huge and there are plenty of them along the road. You could have a really big group out here," warns aron F. from Tombstone Camp.
Water access: No water sources exist at most sites. "Empire Ranch has a great but small museum, with trails around it for walking, nice restrooms, free water for filling your RV, and a rich history," notes Michael R. from Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area.
Permit requirements: Some areas require permits for camping. "We spent a week here in March and really enjoyed the spot as a home base. Don't forget your AZ Land Trust permit, someone did stop by to check we had them," advises Ben & Anna S. from Mescal Road Dispersed Site.
Tips for camping with families
Group site availability: Reserve larger areas for family gatherings. "There are many places to camp on empire ranch. Many are dispersed camping but there is also a really great group site for reservation. Great location for Ground Tents, Roof Top Tents, and RVs," suggests Joshua M. about Empire Ranch.
Wildlife education: Turn wildlife encounters into learning opportunities. "I was traveling from Tucson to Sonoita and had myself a nice overnight. LOTS of nature sounds, heard a pack of dogs, plenty of cows and (?) And the birds are everywhere! It's super awesome!" shares Andrew B. about Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area.
Camping comfort: Prepare for temperature changes and harsh sun. "This spot is v quiet and there was no one else around when we were here in December {other than the cows!}. It's does get quite cold as you're around 5K ft elevation here," cautions Aliza N. from Maternity Well Dispersed Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Rig size considerations: Many sites have size limitations for larger vehicles. "My sprinter had no problem getting there without needing 4WD but I would not take a trailer or anything larger than 25 ft," advises Joey B. from Tombstone Camp.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain. "We camped in our 34 ft. C class. We only went about a 10th of a mile down the dirt road before finding a small sight. Just right for us. Further down the road the was a group of campers with RVs and 5th Wheels," shares MP C. about Maternity Well Dispersed Campsite.
Seasonal timing: Winter offers more comfortable temperatures for boondocking. "Open space for boondocking. Historic ranch house open for visiting. Saw many birds and few other campers. Public bathroom at ranch headquarters and water," notes Stuart K. about La Cienegas National Conservation Area.
