Dispersed camping in the Dragoon Mountains near Dragoon, Arizona ranges from 4,600 to 5,000 feet elevation, creating distinct temperature patterns and camping conditions throughout the year. This transition zone between desert and mountain terrain supports diverse vegetation including alligator juniper, various oak species, and desert flora. Multiple camping zones extend across Bureau of Land Management and National Forest land with accessibility varying seasonally due to monsoon activity.
What to do
Hiking through diverse terrain: Access multiple trail systems from Cochise Stronghold Campground where hiking opportunities range from easy walks to challenging climbs. "Dog friendly hiking opportunities from this campground on the Cochise Trail. I recommend arriving during daylight hours," notes Beth G., who appreciated the trail access directly from camp.
Rock climbing and bouldering: The Dragoon Mountains feature numerous climbing routes suitable for various skill levels. "We came back another time and discovered multiple dispersed camping spots on the Forest Service road that veers off just as you cross the Forest boundary as you head in towards the campground. The hiking is amazing - head to up at least to half moon tank to see water and amazing rock formations," explains Travis D.
Astronomical viewing: The area's dark skies offer excellent stargazing opportunities, particularly at West Hunt Road dispersed sites. "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," reports Dean E. The minimal light pollution creates optimal conditions for night sky observation.
What campers like
Rock formations and mountain vistas: The dramatic geology creates a distinctive camping backdrop. "Beautiful rock backdrops and views with lots of trails. There is much dispersed camping and although the area can be quite busy, there's lots of space and privacy can be had," says Rachel of Dragoon Mountains camping area.
Private, secluded sites: Many dispersed camping locations offer significant space between sites. "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," reports Tarryn T. about Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687.
Wildlife encounters: The area supports diverse animal populations visible from camp. "Each site has a good amount of space but oddly a small amount of space for tents and RV's longer than 24 feet won't fit in most of the sites. There is no privacy in between sites, but each site has good tree coverage," observes Shari G. who adds, "There was no drinking water available at the campground, but there is a creek you can pull water from for filtering, so come prepared."
What you should know
Road access limitations: Many dispersed sites require navigating rough, unimproved roads. "Coming from Tombstone you travel on N Middlemarch rd which is 10 miles of dirt washboard and just plain bumpy for 10 miles until FR 687 comes up as you Y to the left. FR 687 is not exactly smooth either and not that wide (maybe 1 1/2 vehicle), but your basically there," explains George K.
Fluctuating temperatures: The higher elevation results in significant temperature variation between day and night. "You're roughly at 5000' so winter camping be prepared for snow on occasion. It also can be a little breezy. I'm up here at the end of December and their calling for snow next week," notes another camper about winter conditions.
Seasonal closures: Some established campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground offers developed sites during periods when dispersed camping might be challenging. "The campground has paved roads, showers, dump station, water & electric hookups and the usual campsite set-up. Three trails are located within the park," reports Bill R.
Tips for camping with families
Established campgrounds for amenities: Families with younger children may prefer sites with facilities. "Each site has a picnic table and fire pit as well as shade from trees. The park hosts the caverns and cave tours and a museum about the area. Nice trails surround the park and clearly marked for either hiking, bike or equestrian," explains Alivia M.
Water availability planning: No water sources exist at most dispersed sites. "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," advises Deborah C., highlighting the importance of bringing sufficient water supplies for family needs.
Educational opportunities: Several nearby attractions offer learning experiences. "The location of the park allows quick access to the I-10 and the town of Benson, about 12 miles away. Other interesting sights are within an hour or so of the park," notes one visitor, referencing access to historical sites and natural features.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many dispersed areas have limited space for larger RVs. "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," notes George K., providing guidance on where larger rigs can safely camp.
Leveling and stabilization: The terrain at dispersed sites often requires additional preparation. "I really like this location. The washboard road was really rough and took me forty minutes to go 15 miles. The sites are totally huge and there are plenty of them along the road. You could have a really big group out here. I wouldn't suggest any large campers to go very far past the first few sites the road gets narrow and rough," warns aron F. of Tombstone Camp.
Camp layout considerations: Tree coverage varies significantly between sites. "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," reports Deborah C., noting the oversight that occurs even at dispersed sites.
