Dispersed camping areas near Cashion, Arizona offer low-cost or free camping on public lands within 60 miles of the city. Winter temperatures typically range from 40-70°F during December through February, making it the prime camping season for the region. Most sites sit at elevations between 1,000-1,500 feet in Sonoran Desert terrain characterized by saguaro cacti, creosote bushes, and palo verde trees.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area provides excellent wildlife spotting. "Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well. Fantastic views and quiet atmosphere, so far," notes William M. The area features natural desert habitats ideal for spotting desert wildlife.
Rock hunting excursions: Saddle Mountain BLM offers rock enthusiasts unique opportunities. "We road our E bikes all over and did some agate hunting with wonderful success!" shares Wendie K. The mountains contain various mineral deposits and semi-precious stones for collectors.
Hot air balloon watching: Free camping near Cashion provides unique morning views. "Awoke to WONDERFUL hot air balloons, cactus and mountains… after sunrise! What a sight!" reports Tamra J. about Dispersed Camping off hwy 74. Dawn hours typically offer the best viewing conditions.
What campers like
Quiet weekday stays: Several campers mention decreased traffic during midweek. "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. Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules," explains Brent T. about State land trust/Inspiration Point.
Night sky viewing: The dark skies away from Phoenix provide excellent stargazing. "Stargazing is spectacular. You won't regret it!" shares Dustin N. from Saddle Mountain BLM. The desert environment offers minimal light pollution compared to urban areas.
Sense of community: Some campers find camaraderie at popular sites. "Yes, I paid the$15 fee and I've been here a couple weeks. People are pretty great. I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun," writes Gregg T. about Dispersed Camping off hwy 74.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Arizona State Trust Land requires permits for camping. "I DO purchase the $15-a-year permit and I DO display it. But in 2 years, I've not seen even one 'official' vehicle and have never been asked to see my permit or how long I have parked," explains The Wanderer about Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land.
Changing access conditions: Some areas face new restrictions or closures. "Unfortunately, the state has closed this area down. Brand new 'No Motor Vehicle' signs installed. This was a major travel destination for RV'rs and campers passing through," reports Christopher H.
Dust and wind considerations: The desert environment brings specific challenges. "The wind gets pretty strong out here and there are a lot of side by sides that run very late into the night in the weekends, usually," notes Eric S. Securing tents and awnings becomes essential during windy periods.
Tips for camping with families
Cactus safety measures: Desert plants require extra caution with children. "All the cacti so close is a bit hazardous for pets and small children, my dog already got spines in her paws," cautions CrookedSnake from Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area.
Pet management strategies: Keep pets leashed in cactus-dense areas. "We had our two dogs with us and just kept them on the leash so we had no negative cactus experiences," advises Elisabeth Q. Consider bringing tweezers for potential cactus spine removal.
Weekend noise levels: Plan family trips during weekdays when possible. "Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a ohv area but treated as such)," Brent T. observes. Weekends bring increased traffic from off-road vehicles and potential noise issues.
Tips from RVers
Road condition scouting: Check routes before driving larger rigs into unfamiliar areas. "Like any time your looking for a site, park in a safe place and search by either foot or in my case ebike," suggests George K. about Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance. This prevents potential stuck situations on rough terrain.
Leveling challenges: Desert terrain requires preparation for uneven sites. "Sites here can accommodate the big rigs, but the smaller you are the more options you have," notes George K. Bring adequate leveling blocks for desert camping.
Wash hazards: Be cautious of desert washes that may trap larger vehicles. "Beware of paths that seem fit for a two wheeled vehicle but were created by ATVs which can often climb into and out of these washes with no problem. I drove through one that almost ripped off the tail end of my 17 foot TT. Don't forget to GOAL, get out and look," advises Butch K.
