Top Free Dispersed Camping near Chiricahua, AZ

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Chiricahua? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Chiricahua, AZ (15)

    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed

    3. Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed

    1 Review
    3 Photos
    37 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed

    4. Juniper Flats Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    84 Saves

    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.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
    • No image available

      6. Whitewater Draw WMA

      1 Review
      8 Saves

      There are officially four campsites at Whitewater Draw. Parking is on a gravel surface and a metal pipe barrier loosely encloses a picnic table within the greater open space. A tent easily fits within this barrier, and a 35ft Class A, plus tow vehicle, can comfortably park within the designated site.

      • Pets
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • Alcohol
      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Camper-submitted photo from Wilcox Playa Viewing Area - Dispersed Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Wilcox Playa Viewing Area - Dispersed Camping
        Camper-submitted photo from Wilcox Playa Viewing Area - Dispersed Camping

        9. Wilcox Playa Viewing Area - Dispersed Camping

        3 Reviews
        3 Photos
        47 Saves

        Willcox Playa is best known for its wintering population of sandhill cranes that migrate to the playa in large numbers, particularly in wet winters. It is not unusual to see several thousand cranes in winter at the power plant ponds viewing area on the southwest side of the playa, or at the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s 600-acre Wildlife Area on the southeast side. The cranes feed and court, but after February migrate to their summer breeding grounds in the northern Great Plains. Birding is best from mid-October through March, when more than 15 species of birds of prey may also be found here. The annual Wings over Willcox Birding and Nature Festival takes place in nearby Willcox each January and features guided tours. Camping: Overnight public camping is allowed in designated areas only, for no more than 14 days within a 45-day period. There are no facilities at the Wildlife Area. Restrictions: Open fires are allowed in designated areas only, Parking area only. No firewood cutting or gathering.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • ADA Access
        • RVs
        • Tents
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks

        10. Indian Bread Rocks

        1 Review
        4 Photos
        20 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
      Showing results 1-10 of 15 campgrounds

      Recent Dispersed Reviews In Chiricahua

      51 Reviews of 15 Chiricahua Campgrounds


      • TThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        May. 4, 2024

        Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

        Felt like camping on desert safari

        Moderately rough road out for non 4x4 vehicle road, but fine going slow. Good spots off the road, fairly private and not too many other campers nearby. Lots of animals nearby very loud waking up and ants on the ground, we were glad we were in a roof tent not on the ground.

      • NThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
        Apr. 14, 2024

        Granite Gap

        Extreme solitude

        First off do not use Google maps. It will not take you to the right place. Use the built-in location found in DYRT. After you turn off I 10 on the left to travel approximately 10 miles the site will be on your right hand side. Follow the road to the left as you go through the gate. The site is very well-maintained. There are only a handful of sites available, but when I was there, I was the only one.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Apr. 12, 2024

        Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

        Peaceful and Quiet

        Take Middle March road on left off of highway 80. Campsite is 10 miles on the left. The first .5 miles is paved, the other 9.5 miles is primitive (embedded rock, loose gravel, and about 75%washboard). You’ll cross a few cattle guards and dry river beds. Plenty of camping spots with fire rings.

      • Dean E.
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
        Feb. 21, 2024

        West Hunt Road

        By Cochise Stronghold trailhead

        Road in is bad but not horrible. Lots of sites and many open on Wednesday in late February. Great views and clean. 1.5 miles to campground and trailhead.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
        Jan. 28, 2024

        Granite Gap

        Classic New Mexi o

        Great spot. Rocks and cactus and sunrises. Narrow sandy road, but manageable for smaller RV.

      • TThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
        Jan. 10, 2024

        West Turkey Creek Dispersed

        Gorgeous

        The drive up is beautiful, the road isn’t maintained, but in pretty good condition. I stopped right after the cattle guard. There is another site going up about .5 mile in the left. Couldn’t see good enough in the dark. The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk. Not a lot of traffic, and a trail right up the road to hike or follow the creek. The last campers left it so nice I was able to add decorations.

      • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Dec. 27, 2023

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Serene Dispersed Camping Location

        A beautiful, serene location not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie. We arrived at around 10pm in our Sprinter van and found a quiet location. The campsites are far apart and you travel on compacted dirt road to get there. The father you go, the more space you have. It will be quite bumpy if you do not have an AWD or 4x4.

      • h
        Camper-submitted photo from Granite Gap
        Dec. 25, 2023

        Granite Gap

        Beautiful! Quite! Amazing!

        Amazing views. A bit sandy of a drive. You have to open and close a gate but it is not locked. Quite, no lights nearby, dispersed camping at its best. Just a few cows. I would camp here again. We made it up in a long bed crew an Chevy 2500. Some camp sites at the bottom. But if you go up to the dead end keep to the left. Site is not to level but throw a couple of rocks under the tires and you can level out. Drive up is a little bit narrow with cactus close to the road. I would not think you need 4x4 but maybe something more then a car would be better. If wet I would think it may get a bit squishy, but with it dry a stock suv would make it just fine. Camped next to a rock face. Just beautiful!

      • Remington R.
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
        Nov. 21, 2023

        West Hunt Road

        Nice...

        Road going in is horrible, washboard the whole way... it's a beautiful little camping area, no bathrooms and no water... I have T-mobile. I didn't get a signal at all, but I have a T-mobile internet modem, and it got a good signal... Beautiful views of the mountains whare I was parked I watched people free climb up than back down, I don't recommend that it was extremely steep...

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
        Oct. 17, 2023

        Indian Bread Rocks

        Nice dispersed camping area

        Happy Camp Canyon is in fairly good condition. There is a trailhead parking area that is posted as no camping but about 50 yards further down there is a clearing with fire rings. We ended up sharing the spot with some cattle for a while.

      • H
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Sep. 4, 2023

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Great spot for a quick camp spot

        Overall the stay was great. My only complaint would be the bugs that were swarming in the morning. They only swarm certain plants and we happened to be by one so we had bugs EVERYWHERE. But it wasn’t a big deal. We just quickly packed up and went and ate breakfast at the picnic area right down the road and explored the granite rocks for a while.

      • Kelly K.
        Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
        Aug. 19, 2023

        Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

        Beautiful views, spread out dispersed camps

        Middleware road is highly washboarded. Forest Service Road is smoother but has some deep cuts. Made it fairly easily in small Class A. Nice sites with soft dirt and sand. Beautiful views of the Dragoons.

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
        Jul. 4, 2023

        Juniper Flats Dispersed

        Outstanding Views

        Road is very steep in places. 4 wheel drive would be necessary if road is wet or raining, otherwise passenger car and truck passable. Camping spots are at the edges which makes for fantastic sunrises and sunsets

      • Haley L.
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Feb. 25, 2023

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Great Spot

        We got there far later than we should have (10:30pm) but were able to find a little space. It was, of course, difficult to navigate in the dark. The entrance was sooner than GPS showed but not too difficult to find. Sadly, we only saw hoof prints. No cows.

      • Aliza  N.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Dec. 17, 2022

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Top notch dispersed camping area

        We really enjoyed our time here! The cows were great to watch and we got some great video of them! The road in was dirt and washboard here and there but overall could be easily passed by most any car. GPS coords were pretty accurate as well. Once you are off the main road the sand can be pretty deep and some of the turns pretty tight so scope it out if your in a bigger rig, before heading in. Lots of spots on the left in the first loops and on a spur to the right near some cool rocks. Not many people around when we were here and was nice and quiet.

      • Monte W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest
        Nov. 26, 2022

        Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

        Awesome dispersed sites

        Drove about 40 minutes down pinery canyon road. Roads weren’t terrible but had a few washboard spots. Several sites located off the main road. Plenty of wood to collect for the fire. It was pretty cold at night in late November but there was plenty of space between sites that my generator wasn’t offensive to others. Very clean site too.

      • T
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Nov. 26, 2022

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Easy access exploring and beautiful spot

        This has been our favorite campsite of our road trip so far. Noteworthy mentions: It is off the beaten path. It’s free. There are free roaming cattle There are endless rocks to explore and climb. It will keep your attention for days. Not many people here. Campfires allowed. Would recommend a 4x4 to get to further sites. Awesome remnants of Native American activity. You’re right next to where you wanna be. Thumbs up.

      • S
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Oct. 24, 2022

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Great time here

        Directions from Dyrt were spot on. As others have said If you have a Big rig park by the day use area and SCOUT it out! After the first few sites the road becomes real sandy in places and not anywhere to turn big rigs around without it being sketchy. We stayed about a mile in on the left next to some huge rocks, nice firepit, no trash, no shade. Will be here two weeks. Met some ranchers moving some of their cattle other than them saw nobody. My dogs loved it. I was just concerned about keeping them safe from rattlesnakes. Have seen at least one every day. One was HUGE @ 5' western diamondback but very beautiful red brick color. Just be very aware as this is their home we're just visiting.

      • Morgan T.
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        Jun. 19, 2022

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Cows!

        This site was pretty easy to get to and at the foothills were beautiful and well-maintained. Didn’t use the restroom because there was a giant spider and there wasn’t TP, but it was there. People left rock fire pits, which we also didn’t use, but it’s nice they were there. Woke up to see cows hanging around and got to see a baby cow and mom, which was so sweet.

      • Cameron M.
        Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
        May. 26, 2022

        Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

        Cool scenic spot, lots of critters

        Stayed here on our way to New Mexico. It was a beautiful spot, very scenic. The dirt was soft as sand, and the area was cleaner than most. The only negative was their was tons of wasps at our site, not sure about the others. They didn’t mess with us but they were annoying like flies.

      • Albert V.
        Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest
        Mar. 30, 2022

        Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

        Great spot to visit Chiricahua NM

        I spent one night here. It was very quiet and secluded, and the dirt road is in great condition. There's tons of spots and the trees give a little cover. I rained on and off at night, but I feel the tree foliage kept a lot of water from dripping down onto the tent.

      • Jackson W.
        Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
        Mar. 27, 2022

        Juniper Flats Dispersed

        Great Views!

        This site offers great views of the surrounding valley and some of Bisbee! Nice and quite at night and privacy doesn’t seem like an issue. The road up is in good shape and accessible by vehicles even without 4X4 for the majority of the road, I believe it may get a little sketchy deeper in. Only issue with this site is wind, there is definitely constant wind.

      • A
        Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
        Mar. 18, 2022

        Juniper Flats Dispersed

        Amazing Views

        From sunset to sunrise it was absolutely an awesome spot to stay. Many spots, with or without shade. Great access roads with no issues for any vehicles.



      Guide to Chiricahua

      Camping near Chiricahua, Arizona, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, stargaze, or simply relax in nature, this area has something for everyone.

      What to do

      • Hiking: There are many trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Bonita Canyon Campground, visitors rave about the easy access to fantastic hiking and wildlife viewing. One camper noted, "This continues to be one of our favorite places in Arizona to camp and hike."
      • Birdwatching: The Chiricahua area is known for its diverse bird species. A reviewer at Bonita Canyon Campground mentioned, "This is premier birdwatching country," highlighting the unique wildlife you can see while camping.
      • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night sky is breathtaking. One camper shared, "The views of the night sky are unparalleled," making it a perfect spot for stargazers.

      What campers like

      • Scenic Beauty: Campers love the picturesque surroundings. A visitor at Sunny Flat Campground said, "Gorgeous views from every single direction!" This sentiment is echoed by many who appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
      • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campgrounds, like Cochise Stronghold Campground, are known for their peaceful settings. One camper noted, "Very quiet place too," which is ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
      • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming nature of campground hosts. At Rusty's RV Ranch, a reviewer remarked, "Rusty runs a tight ship," indicating the care taken in maintaining the campground.

      What you should know

      • Reservations are a must: Many campgrounds, especially Bonita Canyon Campground, fill up quickly. One camper advised, "Reservations are a must," to ensure you have a spot.
      • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Cochise Stronghold Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "There is no water and decent pit toilets," so be prepared to bring your own supplies.
      • Road conditions can vary: Accessing some campgrounds may require a vehicle with good clearance. A reviewer at Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping noted, "The roads weren’t terrible but had a few washboard spots."

      Tips for camping with families

      • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for spots like Desert Oasis Campground, which has amenities like a clubhouse and laundry facilities. A camper shared, "There is a large clubhouse for weekly get-togethers with food."
      • Plan for activities: Make sure to have games and outdoor activities ready. One family at Sunny Flat Campground enjoyed meeting new friends around their fire pit, which can be a great way to bond.
      • Pack for comfort: Bring extra blankets and warm clothes, especially if camping in cooler months. A visitor at Cochise Stronghold Campground mentioned, "Pretty cold and rugged in Jan but really gorgeous."

      Tips from RVers

      • Check size restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, are not big rig friendly. A reviewer cautioned, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
      • Be prepared for limited hookups: Many campgrounds do not offer electric or water hookups. A camper at Rusty's RV Ranch noted, "All services work properly and facilities are neat and clean," but it's essential to check ahead.
      • Plan for remote locations: Some campgrounds are quite isolated. A visitor at Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Pay attention to your fuel levels in your vehicle as this is a remote place."

      Camping near Chiricahua, Arizona, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With its beautiful landscapes and variety of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and RVers alike.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Chiricahua, AZ?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Chiricahua, AZ is West Turkey Creek Dispersed with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

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

        TheDyrt.com has all 15 dispersed camping locations near Chiricahua, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.