Top Free Dispersed Camping near Carefree, AZ
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Carefree, AZ (61)
1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
26 Reviews•64 Photos•482 SavesFREE permit required from the Mesa Ranger District office at 5140 E. Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205; 480-610-3300. Permits can be requested online or by email. The permit will be emailed to you within 48 hours (except weekends and holidays). This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
17 Reviews•17 Photos•250 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Equestrian
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
3. Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
12 Reviews•39 Photos•141 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
4. Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
5 Reviews•15 Photos•77 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
4 Reviews•16 Photos•60 SavesAnnual permit needed to recreate an AZ State Trust Lands.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Box Bar Road Dispersed
3 Reviews•31 SavesBox Bar is a River Access Point to the Verde River, close to Bartlett Lake in the Cave Creek Ranger District. This small site offers beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains along with a fast moving river – making it a fun spot for kids of all ages. The shore line is a rocky/pebble beach with several shady trees. Wildlife can be seen during the early summer months, and late winter. The road access in to the site is compacted dirt.
There are no designated campsites however the shaded areas along the west side of the parking area are popular spots to set up camp trailers and tents.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Trash
7. Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
5 Reviews•19 Photos•160 SavesThis is for SHEEPS Bridge BLM in Arizona There is a different listing on The Dyrt for SHEEP Bridge BLM in Utah VERY rugged road to get to this campground. Please be advised if you have an RV or a low clearance vehicle.
- Pets
- Tents
- Group
- Equestrian
- Tent Cabin
- Picnic Table
8. Hackamore Road Dispersed
10 Reviews•8 Photos•77 SavesCamping 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.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Equestrian
9. Anthem Dispersed Campsite
1 Review•8 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. Catfish Point Picnic and Dispersed Camping Area
2 Reviews•4 Photos•66 SavesNo designated camping areas, grills, tables, or ramadas provided. No Trash Services. PACK IN, PACK OUT. 14 day stay limit.
Catfish Point Catfish is a site located on the Horseshoe Reservoir in Cave Creek. This site offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains. Horseshoe Reservoir provide opportunities for many water activities. Catfish Boating Site offers access boat for non-motorized boating ONLY. It will not accommodate larger boats. Horseshoe Reservoir is one of the most remote lakes in the area and is ideal for anglers looking for a quiet lake.
- Pets
- Dispersed
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Showing results 1-10 of 61 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Carefree
192 Reviews of 61 Carefree Campgrounds
Mary Ann
Traveler
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
My favorite area
Permit required for the gate code. Camping available 2 miles in. Need a 4x4. It's definitely worth the hastle as these spots are beautiful and clean. A lot of OHV so it kicks up dust.
Brian E.
Scout
Peralta Road Dispersed Camping
No more camping
The county has closed camping on Peralta road, signs are up, and trenches have been dug so no access is available.
- eedwin H.Scout
Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Dispersed camping not allowed currently
September 21, 2024: We’ve dispersed camped here many times in last three years, took a trip out there today and every dispersed access point is plowed up with very deep trenches not allowing vehicles or rigs to access. Sad affair with squatters taking advantage and leaving trash, there was not a soul in sight. Maybe they’ll reopen it later when it cools down.
- R
Ralph S.Traveler
Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Requires permit
Area is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.
Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.
Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂
Tim J.Traveler
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
State trust land
No problems except for the people on drugs. Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere.
samuel C.
Ranger
Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Noisy
Lots of lit up trucks and dirt bikes coming through the night I stayed but the views and rock formations were cool to check out with my dog.
- RRosendo B.Scout
Childs Dispersed Camping - Temporarily Closed
Great camping location
I came here 2 months ago and I found this place suitable for camping. We had a great time grilling food and playing slope games.
- DDavid R.Scout
Skylar Hayden - Dispersed Camping
Nice forest
We pulled into our stop as the sun was setting. Drove back about a quarter mile ona 4wd road. Had a few gun shots and elks during the night.
- GGerald P.Traveler
Skylar Hayden - Dispersed Camping
Road not marked or maintained
Hard to find if just looking for signs. Great scenery
Caitlin S.
Guide
Dispersed camping near Crown King
Gorgeous secluded camping
Secluded dispersed camping in the woods just outside of the town Crown King. 4x4 is recommended, campsites are not accessible when snowfall has occurred. Beautiful wildlife including deer always nearby.
Jim A.TravelerSaguaro Cove
Remote Camping
Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water. Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. Views are nice and its a nice pack it in, pack it out spot.
- JJena S.Traveler
Skylar Hayden - Dispersed Camping
Need high clearance vehicle
The roads are very rough from the beginning. Lots of spots to pull off and camp. Better to drive in during the daylight.
- RRobert F.Guide
Sophie's Flat Trailhead
Open area
Nice spot, pretty clean. Pretty easy to get to. There is a dirt road leading up to it. I think most size rigs could make it.
- Lynnae P.Scout
Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp
Sign "No Mortorized vehicles allowed"
Could not Enter. Closed
Black H.ScoutSawlog Tank South
Not much to see, empty place
This place is really uneven, there’s literally nothing around. Do not recommend unless it’s an emergency stop and you need to spend the night there.
Patrick C.GuideBox Bar Road Dispersed
Fun spot
This is a great spot and easy to get to. Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car , wich there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that. Close to the river with several walk in spots to play in.
- BBrent T.Traveler
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Weekdays are best
State land trust, good spot for a few nights. Gunshots in the distance, but no incidents/casualties lol. Pulled my 31ft TT back into a spot for a week. Close 10 min drive to stores like WinCo and Safeway and gas stations. Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a ohv area but treated as such)
Jacquelyn I.ScoutBox Bar Road Dispersed
Easy Drive In
We don’t have an offroad car, so it is always nice when the gravel road is well managed. No heart aches getting in and finding an open area to camp. I was pleasently surprised at the many little nooks of privacy that you could set up camp. Outhouses are well maintained. Bring your own water though and you do need to pay ahead of time, there are no pay boxes on site.
- MMichael P.Scout
NF-414 Dispersed Site - Tonto NF
Thieves
Nice area been here 3 days left my camp site to go grab supplies everything was stolen ( tent stove table propane tank) stay far away from Payson az 04/23/2024
- ccalScout
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Cat missing here
Beautiful campground up the road from box bar campground with Mountain View’s and cacti.
My blue eyed cat went missing here at 9pm on 4/7. Please email me if you see him.
Mariann M.Scout
Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
So far easy to navigate and use pretty rad !
Haven't had the chance to camp at the sites in here. Going to start tonight
Melissa S.Guide
Flower Pot USFS Dispersed
Wide open spaces
Great place to stop right off the road on the way to Sedona. Lots of places to camp - however it is off season and mid week. It was a little muddy and rutted, but it was raining. We could hear the freeway - however, I am guessing the further you go in - the less road noise. Full Verizon signal. Would happily stay here again.
- FFreddie F.Scout
Hackamore Road Dispersed
This area and the whole bulldog canyon are are closed for construction
The whole are is closed
- CCelia A.Scout
Catfish Point Picnic and Dispersed Camping Area
I love this place so much
The sign that says no camping is misleading. Someone removed tape. There are many developed campsites and pit toilets that aren’t bad for pit toilets. Some sites are on the river.
Makayla Z.TravelerGreat BLM Camping and Staging Area
Like something out of a Western film
We pulled in late at about 10pm. Wild burros and coyotes set the soundtrack and the cactus shadows looked against the bright night clouds. Absolutely worth the drive! We car camped and the weather was perfect and we slept great. We will definitely be back soon so we can actually pick a site and enjoy it!
Nancy C.ScoutAnthem Dispersed Campsite
Nice boondocking area
There are quiet areas and also areas where people run ATVs and dirt bikes
- MMikaela S.Scout
Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Great spot to pull in
Drove a mini van on the road, wasn’t too washed out or anything. A sedan could definitely drive to many of the spots. Many campsites available, beautiful scenery! Please help keep this place clean by leaving no trace!
Guide to Carefree
Camping near Carefree, Arizona, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.
What to do:
- Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground saying, "Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level."
- Off-Roading: If you have a UTV or enjoy off-roading, Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is a great spot. A visitor shared, "Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts."
- Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, "We stayed at Lake Pleasant for 2 weeks... There are lots of great trails for hiking in the park."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views at Point of Rocks RV Campground. One happy camper said, "Nestled in the Dells, we had a spot that backed up to the rocks that we were able to easily climb up each night and watch the sunset."
- Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer from Houston Mesa Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are well-maintained and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay."
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the spacious sites and friendly staff at Usery Mountain Regional Park. One family shared, "The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere."
What you should know:
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack showers and have limited water access. A visitor noted, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
- Noise Levels: Be aware that some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at White Spar Campground mentioned, "Quite a bit of highway noise."
- Cell Service: If you need to stay connected, check the cell service availability. A reviewer from Houston Mesa Campground said, "While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with ample space for kids to play. A family at Usery Mountain Regional Park appreciated the "ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out."
- Plan for Activities: Bring bikes and hiking gear to keep everyone entertained. One camper at McDowell Mountain Regional Park said, "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails."
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food and drinks on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Verde Ranch RV Resort mentioned, "The staff is outstanding," which can help if you need assistance during your stay.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Hookup Availability: Make sure the campground has the necessary hookups for your RV. A reviewer from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground noted, "Water and electric... but no beach for swimming."
- Be Mindful of Space: Some RV parks can be tight. A camper at Verde Ranch RV Resort said, "Sites tight, extremely close to one another."
- Plan for Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds further from highways. A visitor at Point of Rocks RV Campground mentioned, "The best sites are in the back farther from the highway."
Camping near Carefree, Arizona, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to check the amenities and plan accordingly for a great outdoor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Carefree, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Carefree, AZ is Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance with a 3.7-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Carefree, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 61 dispersed camping locations near Carefree, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.