Best Dispersed Camping near Catalina, AZ

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Catalina, AZ has a lot to offer. Catalina is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Catalina, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Catalina, Arizona (23)

    1. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    20 miles
    Website

    "This area is about 30 minutes away from Rilloto for supplies. Picacho Peak State park is 20 minutes away for hiking. Overall, it is a quiet area with beautiful views."

    "Classic BLM-style camping, meaning no amenities, dispersed, and pack out all waste.

    This campground’s name is quite apt; it is indeed a cactus forest, and a beautiful one at that."

    2. Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 388-8300

    "Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back"

    "Great spots along this road for dispersed camping. Saw some wild life like deer and turkey. Only downside is that the road is narrow so if your pulling anything wide just be cautious."

    3. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    3 Reviews
    Catalina, AZ
    3 miles

    "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise."

    4. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    33 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Bureau of Land Management site. 14 day limit. Easy access and we were able to park our 42 ft motor home easily. The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four legged camper!"

    "This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge. "

    5. Cactus Forest Dispersed Site

    10 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "We camped here near “desert hill”, and there was quite a bit of shooting going on. We didn’t mind it and we’re a little bummed we had no idea we could do it there."

    "Really nice dispersed camp sites along a dirt road. The directions are accurate and bring you to two dirt roads off of Cattle Tank Road."

    6. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    23 miles
    Website

    "It’s just past the Tanque Verde Falls trailhead parking lot. Beautiful views and lots of RVs around. Off-road route can be bumpy but worth it. Car camping OK."

    "We parked car on dirt road above canyon. We were only ones for a week. Then other young group showed up."

    7. Cactus Forest Dispersed - High Clearance

    3 Reviews
    Picacho, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "You definitely need a high clearance and maybe 4X4 as the road crosses washes and sand."

    "Narrow Road in will scratch your vehicle, but it is quiet and the sides are level. Beautiful desert convenient to the interstate."

    8. Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "The road from the highway is paved for most of the way. It is about 7 miles from I-10 north of Tucson. You can see the small airport, but it's not busy."

    "About 40 minutes away from Saguaro NP. Absolutely beautiful. Arrived late in the afternoon on a Saturday night. Only a couple of other campers, plenty of sites available."

    9. Reddington Pass Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    "It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around."

    "40 mile scenic drive on a 4x4 road, dispersed camping along the way. Extremely popular view to park off the road in the saguaros."

    10. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Plenty of easy dirt roads that we were able to take our ebikes on. Good sites…but watch for rain in the forecast…the desert floor turns to mush and you might find yourself stuck until it dries out."

    "Spent a night here, the site was great if you’re looking for a mostly flat area to camp. There’s a herd of bulls / cows that graze in the area."

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Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Catalina, AZ

178 Reviews of 23 Catalina Campgrounds



Guide to Catalina

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Catalina, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning desert landscapes and a variety of unique sites, this area offers a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Catalina, Arizona

  • When visiting Cactus Forest Dispersed, be prepared for a remote experience with no facilities, making it essential to pack in all necessary supplies.
  • The Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping area is known for its beautiful views of Tucson and cooler temperatures, making it a great spot for a longer stay.
  • If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider the Mount Bigelow Dispersed site, which offers secluded spots and stunning views, perfect for escaping the summer heat.

Unique wildlife experiences for dispersed campers

Scenic views and landscapes for dispersed campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Catalina, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Catalina, AZ is Cactus Forest Dispersed with a 4.4-star rating from 33 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Catalina, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 dispersed camping locations near Catalina, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.