Looking for the best campgrounds near Chiricahua, AZ? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Chiricahua. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Chiricahua. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.
"Temperatures were cool under the shade of the trees. Perfect for pitching a tent for a few nights."
"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."
"From chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument."
"There are a few dispersed spots along FS 42, just past the research station. There are two on the left, before the cattle guard, and one on the right, just past the cattle guard."
"If the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national"
"Your best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell."
"This dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary."
"BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. "
"Popular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area."
"The dirt road up is maintained, but it is loose when dry, and it has a steep grade in some spots with very tight switchbacks. "
"Many spots, with or without shade. Great access roads with no issues for any vehicles."
"This spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews."
"First off do not use Google maps. It will not take you to the right place. Use the built-in location found in DYRT."
"Playa Dispersed Campsite is a unique and serene camping area located on the expansive alkali flats of the Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada."
"Playa Dispersed Campsite is a hidden gem located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona."
LegendIf the campground at the national monument is full, head up Piney Canyon Rd. and you will find a number of free spots for both tent camping and RV’s just off the main road inside the boundary of the national forest. Most sites are tree covered, but we found one with an open sunny space for our solar panel. Our site was right next to a very clean flowing stream, which provided not only a nice soundtrack but also a filterable water source. Most of the sites seemed to have established fire pits, with ours being the monster of all fire pits we’ve ever seen. These are dispersed sites, so no potable water, picnic tables, or toilets are available, so come prepared with what you need to be comfortable. Also note that the road into the forest is not maintained well and is full of washboards for about a mile or so, and many washes cross this road, so pay close attention to rain in the forecast as you could get stuck on the other side of one of these washes for an indefinite period of time.
The closest grocery store and gas station is in Willcox, which is about 40 minutes away. There are also a number of wineries in the area, as this is 1 of the 3 Arizona wine regions.
Note: There is no cell service anywhere along this road, your best bet for an LTE connection is at the top of the monument’s road (Sugarloaf Mountain or Echo Canyon parking lots) or the guest wifi network at the visitor’s center.
RangerThis spot is about a tenth of a mile off the highway. I walked the road because of past reviews. The road in is soft and there is one spot that you need a high clearance vehicle for or are able to maneuver around some rocks. Otherwise it’s super easy to get to. There’s probably space for five or six rigs here. Great views.
RangerFrom chiricahua entrance head on FSR 42. A mile or two in many many sites along dry creek in the trees. Some Otv and motorcycle activity during day. We stayed only 15 minutes from monument.
LegendThis site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C. Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful.
BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice.
Drive through Bowie to get to Apache Pass Rd then a left on Happy Camp Canyon dirt road which is wide and flat but washboarded. Once you get to the recreation area, there is a picnic spot with tables and toilet but no camping is allowed in that area, you'll have to keep driving a bit further. There were a lot of campers when we stayed but we found a nice spot right off the dirt road with amazing views. Heard some gun shooting going on the first day but none following that. There are open range cattle roaming around so give them space and keep your animals leashed. On a hike one was walking right up to us so be aware.There were times on our hikes where you turn a corner and there are a few just standing there. The brush is high enough to hide some too so keep an eye out. This is BLM so the camping is FREE there is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers.
Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike.
Good verizon and AT&T reception.
TravelerYour best bet if you are looking to visit Chiricahua National Monument and Bonita is full. This is the closest in proximity from what I could tell. Obviously no bathrooms, but Chiricahua visitor center does have a bathroom. It’s not practical for every bathroom use, but maybe worth it to poop 😅 otherwise, good dispersed sites. They don’t start for a mile or two after entering Coronado NF. Sites on the right side of the road tend to have more shade then on the left. Sites have rock fire pits and good shade. We heard turkeys, had a nightly skunk visitor who was pretty un-afraid of humans and definitely was looking for food. We locked food in covered truck bed to prevent too many visitors.
ScoutPlaya Dispersed Campsite is a unique and serene camping area located on the expansive alkali flats of the Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada. Known for its otherworldly landscape, this remote site offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking solitude, vast horizons, and stunning sunsets. The flat, cracked playa surface stretches endlessly in all directions, creating a sense of open freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. Camping here is truly off-grid— there are no amenities, no marked spots, and no shade— just you, the wind, and the desert sky. color rush
GuideThis dispersed campground is on the Pinery Scenic Route#42 on an all dirt road just before the incline up the mountain. It is a large campsite that can hold a group if necessary. There are no facilities or drinking water but there was a large fire ring available. You are tucked on the side of a hill and covered by trees for a nice shady spot to camp.
TravelerThis camping area is very convenient to Bisbee and environs. Spacing between most established camping areas is good. The dirt road up is maintained, but it is loose when dry, and it has a steep grade in some spots with very tight switchbacks. I had a surprise snow in March of '22 that almost prevented me coming back down, so be aware of weather. Most parking is not pull-through and some is very tight. Any 4WD vehicle and most pickups will be fine. I would not recommend for Class A. Class B is okay (4WD and/or good clearance a plus) and really know your rig for Class C. I would think any trailer longer than 25' is a no-go, but I'm sure some have done it. Have seen quite a few 19-footers up there. Phone service is great- you might even be able to hear calls through dental appliances! ;^)
ScoutLarge level valley with approx 20 designated spots. No facilities. Awesome rock views. 4 miles bumpy dirt road is worth. We did it with a 25 foot travel trailer
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Chiricahua, Arizona, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes. This area offers a variety of spots for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping near Chiricahua National Monument?
Several dispersed camping options exist near Chiricahua National Monument. FS Road 42 Dispersed offers multiple sites along a dry creek bed in the trees, located just 15 minutes from the monument entrance. Another excellent option is Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest, which provides free spots for both tents and RVs just off the main road inside the national forest boundary. Most sites here are tree-covered, making it ideal if the monument's campground is full. Additional dispersed camping can be found at Happy Camp Trail and West Hunt Road, with the latter offering approximately 20 designated spots in a large level valley with impressive rock views.
What amenities are available when dispersed camping in the Chiricahua Mountains?
Dispersed camping in the Chiricahua Mountains typically offers minimal amenities, as is standard with most dispersed camping. At Happy Camp Trail, you'll find a pit toilet at the day use area, but most dispersed sites have no facilities or drinking water. Pinery Campground Lower - Dispersed features a large fire ring, which is one of the few amenities you might encounter. Most sites are natural clearings with no hookups, tables, or restrooms. For bathroom facilities, the Chiricahua National Monument visitor center has public restrooms, though they're not convenient for regular use while camping. Remember to pack out all trash and bring your own water, as potable water sources are not typically available at dispersed sites.
Do I need permits for dispersed camping at Chiricahua National Monument?
No permits are typically required for dispersed camping in the areas surrounding Chiricahua National Monument, but specific rules apply. Camping is not allowed within the monument itself except at the established Bonita Campground, which does require payment. For dispersed camping, areas like Granite Gap and West Hunt Road on national forest land follow standard Forest Service dispersed camping regulations: stay within designated dispersed areas, camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, and adhere to the 14-day stay limit. While permits aren't needed, always practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware that fire restrictions may be in place seasonally. Check with the local ranger district office before your trip for the most current regulations.
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