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Best Dispersed Camping near Coronado National Forest

187 Reviews

Coronado National Forest in Arizona gives you the chance to camp freely across the Sonoran Desert's rugged terrain. Redington Pass in Saguaro National Park has basic sites where you can experience desert quiet away from crowds. You'll need to bring everything you need since these areas have no facilities whatsoever. Make sure to follow Leave No Trace practices to keep the desert healthy. Rules require camping a certain distance from roads and water sources. You can stay up to 14 days in most spots. Many camping areas need vehicles with good clearance because of rough roads. Check if fire bans are active before planning to have a campfire. Remember that you must carry out all trash and waste. If you want another option, Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687 has some out-of-the-way spots. Desert temperatures change dramatically between day and night, so pack for both hot and cold. Summer gets extremely hot, making fall and spring much better times to visit. Double-check that your vehicle can handle the tough roads to these remote camping spots. Always look up current rules and conditions before heading out for your trip.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Coronado National Forest (53)

    1. Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

    15 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Dispersed camping. No amenities. The spots at the cieneguita camp are full Everytime we have camped at the preserve but there is plenty of open area to pick a spot."

    "Occasionally you will end up with cows surrounding you. Happened to me. This campground is allowed up to 14 days, BUT that is every 6 months. Not the normal 30 days."

    2. Dragoon Mountains

    11 Reviews
    Tombstone, AZ
    19 miles

    "Boondockers paradise. Beautiful views and spacious campsites. USFS Coronado National Forest controlled."

    "From the cattle guard you just went through I would say 2-3 miles of established sites even for the bigger rigs and if your smaller or tent camping, just past the next cattle guard and it goes on and on"

    3. Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

    7 Reviews
    Tombstone, AZ
    22 miles

    "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."

    "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."

    4. Road Canyon Camping Area

    4 Reviews
    Elgin, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "As Laura said, easy dirt road from just east of Sonoita & Hwy 82. (GPS had no clue what I was doing, but the coordinates are good) Upon arrival, only one other travel trailer & nice peeps."

    "Dispersed camping, no amenities, but FREE. 

    Easy drive in on partially washboarded flat gravel road (E Yucca Farm Rd). The dirt road into Road Canyon is manageable, just drive with caution."

    5. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    27 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."

    6. Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    21 miles
    Website

    "It's a higher elevation grassland that makes you feel like you're anywhere but in Arizona. The area is large. Roads are well-kept. It used to be a huge ranch and now it's owned by the BLM."

    "Plenty of firewood and a nice “fire ring”.."

    7. Empire Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    20 miles

    "Many are dispersed camping but there is also a really great group site for reservation. Great location for Ground Tents, Roof Top Tents, and RVs"

    "The Dyrt coordinates took me to an area in which I did not feel comfortable pulling off the road because of the tall dry grass so I went to the campground."

    8. Mescal Road Dispersed Site

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    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    9. Mescal Road Camp

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    Coronado National Forest, AZ
    6 miles

    10. La Cienegas National Conservation Area Dispersed

    1 Review
    Elgin, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Open space for boondocking. Historic ranch house open for visiting. Saw many birds and few other campers. Public bathroom at ranch headquarters and water ."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Coronado National Forest

118 Photos of 53 Coronado National Forest Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Coronado National Forest

187 Reviews of 53 Coronado National Forest Campgrounds

  • L
    Apr. 11, 2022

    The Lake - Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Bliss

    This was the perfect place to have my first dispersed camping experience. I tried following Google Maps to the gate however the dirt road it had me try was no longer accessible by car as it was very overgrown. I returned back on the road and continued for about 1/4 mile and found the accessible main dirt road. The gate was closed, please close it once you get your car inside. You must have a Public Lands Trust permit which I did not realize until I got to the gate. Getting one was super easy. $20 for a full year permit and $1 online convenience fee. Once I secured the permit, it was time to explore and find my home for the evening. The road is easy to navigate (yellow ribbons on the bushes just in case) and not maintained. Texture is mostly washed rocks with nothing too technical. High clearance vehicle is required and 4x4 suggested. I saw Pond 2 (0.5 miles from the gate) off to my right and decided to take a look instead of going to Pond 1 (1.5 miles from the gate) immediately. I found a spot that would work for me. Fires are allowed (always check BLM for up to date fire restrictions!!) I still cleared a 10 foot radius around my hand built fire ring as there was dried grasses around. No trash service, no water. Surprised to see 2 porta-potties at the gate but I can't say what state they were in as I did not use them. Come and enjoy the solitude and epic sunsets

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2018

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Boondocking Area

    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! We saw horseback riders and ATVs enjoying the area. We were able to stay in contact (ATT ) and the city is within an easy drive for supplies. This is a boondock area. Be aware that while camping here you are sharing the area with wildlife (including rattlers). Boondocking etiquette applies (pick up trash and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived). We have camped here several times and will certainly return!

  • Deborah C.
    Mar. 14, 2021

    Dragoon Mountains

    Beautiful Views and nice campsites

    Boondockers paradise. Beautiful views and spacious campsites. USFS Coronado National Forest controlled. Ranger came by a day after we arrived and checked in with us. 14 day limit on staying here and it seems like it is enforced.

    Had two Canyon Towhees come visit us every morning.

    Some traffic as it is a popular rock climbing area especially on Friday and Saturday. Middlemarch Road is wide but very washboard-y. Took us about 45 minutes to go 10 miles. We found a nice spot on FR 687. We got water at the Stampede RV park in Tombstone. The other RV parks didn't allow us to fill. About 45 minutes to Sierra Vista for supplies. Will definitely stay here again.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 4, 2019

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Quiet & Very Close to Saguaro NP (west)

    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.  Greeted people here from all walks of life -- from those living out of the back of truck to brand new 45 foot motorhomes.

    Like many high-impact BLM areas, the entrance roads are not well-maintained so some are quite rough. We arrived in the dark, which we do not recommend as it was difficult to see where the entrances were and how rough the roads were ahead of us. The parking/camping spaces are not designated, but heavy use has carved out lots of opportunities. 

    There are a few places to walk or ride throughout the property, which is actually quite small based on typical BLM property.  However, the nearby areas of Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park, offer plenty of opportunities for both. 

    No facilities, no water or even a stream…so plan ahead!

  • Lindsay S.
    Feb. 16, 2021

    Harshaw Road Dispersed Camping - San Rafael Canyon

    Camping alternate to Hershaw

    After seeing the dispersed camping, my partner and I knew there must be something better and more secluded. About a 1/4 mile before the dispersed camping there is a national forest access road on the right. You’ll see a forest fire prevention sign at the entrance. 4x4 only no trailers. 3 or 4 dispersed sites. Beautiful hike up 4x4 road. Border patrol active. Close to Arizona’s trail trailhead. Great place to stay and see Patagonia.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 20, 2021

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Rough access free blm

    The Snyder Hill BLM area is a bit of a trashy rough road access site. No water, no toilets, 14d limit. Good cell and close to Tucson Estates. Tons of broken glass litters the ground, some campers are sketch on tents. Hwy noise could be a factor. BLM rangers visit weekly and that is good. Only use this area if you cannot get into Gilbert Ray CG instead. There is no CG in Saguaro NP West. Another free BLM is Ironwood Forest NationZl Monument but the BLM proposed to start charging a daily $15 camping fee there in 2025?

  • Greg B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 2, 2022

    Road Canyon Camping Area

    Barren Freedom

    As Laura said, easy dirt road from just east of Sonoita & Hwy 82. (GPS had no clue what I was doing, but the coordinates are good) Upon arrival, only one other travel trailer & nice peeps. Lots of dried cow patties, some fire rings & sadly a bit of trash. 2 bars of Verizon. NO toilets NO water.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 16, 2021

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Nice stop of the highway.

    The BLM land had several entrances. We went in towards the end of the road, but found the parking was more level at the third or forth turn off. We came in after dark so it was hard to say the best direct route. The second turn in is very steep. We saw the dip when we went to leave and opted for the first turnoff closer to the light. The rocky hill was a nice walk with the dogs in the morning. Lots of rabbits got them excited. Not overly clean, but I would stop here again. The amenities are easy to access. This is one of the few areas I’ve seen where you can access BLM parking and get gas and groceries at the same exit. It’s about 8 miles off the highway. The area isn’t vast but large enough for privacy. It’s perfect for a quick overnight stop.

  • Rush C.
    Jun. 16, 2025

    Playa Dispersed Campsite

    a profound sense of peace and connection with nature.

    Playa 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

Guide to Coronado National Forest

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Coronado National Forest in Arizona, where nature lovers can enjoy stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. This area offers a variety of spots for those seeking solitude and adventure.

Wildlife Watching while Free Camping near Coronado National Forest

  • At the Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area, visitors often encounter Coues deer and pronghorn antelope, making it a prime location for wildlife enthusiasts.
  • The Dragoon Mountains are home to a diverse range of birds, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching amidst breathtaking mountain views.
  • Campers at the Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping can spot free-range cattle and various wildlife while enjoying the expansive grasslands.

Scenic Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers

  • The Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687 is conveniently located near several hiking trails, allowing campers to explore the stunning landscapes of the surrounding area.
  • Hikers can access the Slavin Gulch hike from the Dragoon Mountains, which offers a beautiful backdrop and a chance to immerse in nature.
  • The Maternity Well Dispersed Campsite provides access to trails that lead to picturesque views, perfect for those looking to combine camping with outdoor adventures.

Unique Historical Attractions for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping spots in Coronado National Forest?

Coronado National Forest offers numerous dispersed camping options throughout its vast territory. The Dragoon Mountains provide spacious campsites with beautiful views under Forest Service management. Another excellent option is Harshaw Road Dispersed Camping - San Rafael Canyon, located just a few miles up Harshaw Road outside the village of Patagonia. For those exploring other areas of the forest, look for designated forest roads that allow dispersed camping. Some sites require 4x4 vehicles to access, while others accommodate larger rigs. The best strategy is to look for established pullouts along forest roads with evidence of previous camping (like fire rings). Always camp in previously disturbed areas and remember that most dispersed sites in Coronado have a 14-day stay limit.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Coronado National Forest?

Dispersed camping in Coronado National Forest typically has a 14-day stay limit that is actively enforced by rangers who regularly patrol camping areas. When camping at Road Canyon Camping Area, you'll find easy access via dirt roads but no facilities - there are no toilets or water sources available. Similarly, at Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area near Tucson, the 14-day limit is strictly enforced. Always camp in previously disturbed areas and maintain at least 100 feet from water sources. Pack out all trash (sadly, some areas have accumulated litter from less responsible visitors). Campfires may be restricted seasonally, especially during fire danger periods. Check current fire restrictions before your trip. Most dispersed sites have no amenities, so bring everything you need including water and waste disposal solutions.

Is dispersed camping allowed on Mt. Lemmon in Coronado National Forest?

Dispersed camping is generally allowed in designated areas on Mt. Lemmon, but with specific restrictions. Unlike some parts of Coronado National Forest, Mt. Lemmon has more regulations due to its popularity and environmental sensitivity. At The Lake - Dispersed Camping, campers report successful dispersed camping experiences, though some access roads may be overgrown or difficult to navigate without appropriate vehicles. Areas along Upper Juniper Flats Road offer additional options, but check current status as accessibility changes seasonally. During high fire danger periods, dispersed camping may be prohibited entirely on Mt. Lemmon. Always verify current regulations before your trip by contacting the Santa Catalina Ranger District or checking the Coronado National Forest website, as rules can change seasonally.

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