Best Campgrounds near Dragoon, AZ
Dispersed camping opportunities abound in the Dragoon Mountains near Dragoon, Arizona, where Bureau of Land Management and National Forest lands provide free primitive sites with minimal amenities. The area encompasses several camping zones including the highly-rated Cochise Stronghold Campground and Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687, offering diverse accommodations for tent and RV camping. Established sites at Kartchner Caverns State Park provide more developed options with electric hookups, water, and showers, while Triangle T Guest Ranch offers cabin accommodations alongside traditional camping. Several free dispersed sites throughout the Dragoon Mountains provide scenic mountain views with varying levels of accessibility.
Road conditions significantly affect access to many sites, particularly in the Dragoon Mountains dispersed camping areas. Forest Road 687 and Middlemarch Road feature extensive washboard sections and occasional deep ruts that may challenge vehicles without high clearance. During monsoon season (typically July through September), numerous washes crossing access roads can become impassable after rainfall. Cochise Stronghold Campground sits at higher elevation in the Dragoon Mountains where weather patterns differ from surrounding desert areas, offering cooler temperatures but potentially challenging access during wet periods. "If there is rain in the forecast, be aware that you may get stuck in this campground for a couple of days, as you have to cross numerous washes on the road to/from the campground," noted one visitor who experienced a flash flood during their stay.
Campers consistently mention the spectacular views of the Dragoon Mountains as a primary draw for dispersed camping in the area. Sites along Forest Road 687 receive high ratings for their privacy and spacing, with multiple reviews highlighting the quiet environment and star-gazing opportunities. According to one visitor, "Lots of sites available, also very popular. Beautiful dragoon mountains." Most dispersed sites lack amenities such as water, toilets, or trash service, requiring campers to bring all supplies and practice proper waste management. Cochise Stronghold Campground provides developed sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets but limited space for larger RVs. While some campers note the challenging access roads, most consider the journey worthwhile for the scenic beauty and solitude found throughout the region. The area's proximity to attractions such as Tombstone (approximately 10 miles from some camping areas) adds historical interest to camping trips.
