Best Campgrounds near Elfrida, AZ

The Sulphur Springs Valley surrounding Elfrida, Arizona provides several camping options within a high desert environment at approximately 4,200 feet elevation. Desert Oasis Campground offers tent and RV sites with full hookups, while Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area provides more primitive camping opportunities. The region includes established RV parks like Double Adobe Campground with cabin options, alongside dispersed camping areas such as Upper Juniper Flats Road on public lands. Most developed campgrounds lie within 10-15 miles of Elfrida, with additional options near Bisbee and Tombstone.

Road conditions vary significantly across the region, particularly for dispersed camping areas. The dirt roads to Upper Juniper Flats feature steep grades and tight switchbacks that limit access for larger vehicles. As one camper noted, "Very nice views, but know your rig's limitations for getting up there... I would not recommend for Class A. Class B is okay and really know your rig for Class C." Weather patterns include mild winters with daytime temperatures typically in the 60s, though occasional snow can affect road conditions. Most developed campgrounds remain open year-round, with several offering amenities like showers, electric hookups, and water. Cell phone coverage is generally good near established campgrounds but may be limited in more remote areas.

Wildlife viewing represents a significant attraction in certain camping areas, particularly at Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area. Between October and March, thousands of Sandhill Cranes gather at this location, drawing bird watchers and photographers. A review mentioned, "This place is really pretty and very easy to get to. During the winter months there are about 20,000 Sandhills cranes super cool." Several campgrounds in the area feature mountain views and desert hiking trails. Desert Oasis Campground includes walking paths on over 100 acres, while proximity to historic sites like Bisbee and Tombstone allows for day trips. Campers consistently mention the stargazing opportunities and peaceful desert environment as highlights of their stays in the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Elfrida, Arizona (126)

    1. Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area

    5 Reviews
    Elfrida, AZ
    8 miles
    Website

    "Turn to the right of the barn and walk toward the lake. It is quite a spectacular event to see and hear the cranes flying back to the lake to roost for the night."

    "It’s in an open valley with distant mountians all around."

    2. Desert Oasis Campground

    10 Reviews
    Bisbee, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 979-6650

    $18 - $45 / night

    "Located in the shadow of the Mule Mountains it is only a little over eight miles from the quaint, mining town of Bisbee."

    "Nice nature trail around large property. I put the loop @ 1.8 miles but they claim 3 mi. total trail. We are wintering here. Close to Douglas and Bisbee."

    3. Rocking T Cattle Ranch

    1 Review
    Elfrida, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (520) 981-1429

    $10 / night

    "Close to Douglas, Bisbee, Tombstone and the Chiricahua National Monument. Hila and Tony are great hosts, make you feel welcome. Both dry and FHU. Many farm animals to see. Will stay here again."

    4. Upper Juniper Flats Road

    11 Reviews
    Bisbee, AZ
    21 miles
    Website

    "Nice views looking down in to Bisbee surrounded by mountains. Close to road, several small pullouts great for vans or smaller camera."

    "Road is very steep in places. 4 wheel drive would be necessary if road is wet or raining, otherwise passenger car and truck passable."

    5. Tombstone RV & Campground

    13 Reviews
    Tombstone, AZ
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 457-3829

    $25 - $40 / night

    "The lighting around the campground at night was charming and appreciated. Our site had a tree with a picnic table under it."

    "Sure it is a little dusty like the west, but you are in Arizona so it can be expected."

    6. Queen Mine RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Bisbee, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 432-5006

    "The park itself is best for its location (about 1/4 mile walk to get into town) and its views."

    "Waking distance to Old Bisbee business district. Queen mine adjacent to park. Tours available."

    7. Bonita Canyon Campground — Chiricahua National Monument

    26 Reviews
    Portal, AZ
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 824-3560

    $25 - $50 / night

    "The campground is small, beautiful, shaded and right in the middle of some incredible scenery providing easy access to the fantastic hiking and wildlife viewing that is all around you.  "

    "Super underrated and amazing national monument on the south eastern border of Arizona. Definitely worth a stop in!"

    8. Whitewater Draw WMA

    1 Review
    Elfrida, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 642-3763

    9. Lazy Horse Ranch

    3 Reviews
    Pearce, AZ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 620-0247

    $25 / night

    "They had at least 10 horses that they were training, breeding etc; etc; I found it to be a fascinating experience. 1 goat running around, a few friendly dogs, chickens and peacocks."

    10. Double Adobe Campground and Shotgun Sports

    2 Reviews
    Bisbee, AZ
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 364-4000

    $40 - $55 / night

    "Campground was quite and in a good location for checking out the area attractions."

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Recent Reviews near Elfrida, AZ

430 Reviews of 126 Elfrida Campgrounds


  • Ben & Anna S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Mescal Road Dispersed Site

    Decent Boondocking Close to Mescal Road

    We spent a week here in March and really enjoyed the spot as a home base. One afternoon we checked out the nearby Mescal Movie Set, which was a fun step back in time. Access-wise, we had to stick closer to N Mescal Road—the washouts on the trail further in looked a bit dicey for towing a trailer. If you’re in a van or just your truck, you could push back deeper without much trouble. You’ll definitely notice the trains rolling through, about a mile away. It’s part of the soundtrack of Arizona boondocking—low rumbles that become background noise after the first night. A few campsites further back were unfortunately trashed, which was disappointing. We also had a couple of vehicles come and go around 1–2am, but they kept to themselves and never caused any issues. Overall, it’s a decent free spot with some character—worth it if you want a quiet base near the Mescal area and don’t mind the trains.

    Large group of UTV trailers were parked near us when we setup camp, but didn't see them again the whole week.

    Don't forget your AZ Land Trust permit, someone did stop by to check we had them.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    John Hand Campground

    Sweet spot

    Darling spot with sound of river over rocks. Great views. Free.

  • Ray & Terri F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Rusty's RV Ranch

    Really nice, out of the way, quiet CG

    We have a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 28 for 5 nights in early/mid September. The CG is clean, well maintained. The CG roads are gravel, as are the sites. The sites themselves are all level. The sites were fairly well spaced, particularly for a private CG. The CG was very quiet and peaceful. There were only 5+ other campers in the whole CG, some looked to be long-term. Our site, 28, was a pull-through, as were most, but some were back in. The trees, though plentiful, are fairly short and don’t provide much shade.

    AT&T coverage was good, but only 1 bar of 5G service with speeds up to 8 MB/s. We had a clear view to the N at the site, so Starlink was fine with speeds up to 25 MB/s.

  • Haley L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

    Beautiful

    Spent one night on 7/12 at the second campsite a little ways down the road after the GPS says you’ve arrived at the location. About 30 minute drive from the Chiricahuas. Good parking for my SUV, nice fire ring, multiple spaces for a tent. Quiet and secluded in the trees. People drove up and down the road during the evening, but no one stopped nearby or could be heard. I did not drive further past this camp site, so it’s unclear the condition of the other sites down the road. Absolutely no cell phone service.

  • Jonathan E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 29, 2025

    West Turkey Creek Dispersed

    Beautiful and isolated

    This spot was quiet, isolated, beautiful, and serene. I didn’t see anyone else here when I went and didn’t see/hear any wildlife besides birds. I also didn’t have any cell reception (T-Mobile), which was fine by me! Temperatures were cool under the shade of the trees. Perfect for pitching a tent for a few nights.

    The only con is that it is a bit out of the way, with 8-10 miles of unmaintained dirt road to get there. In my experience, the road was pretty washboard the whole way.

    I think it’s worth the drive to get to the area, but it can just take a while to get to/from, especially if you’re like me and have a normal car that you at least kind of care about..

  • 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

  • GoldDust D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    Tombstone RV & Campground

    Pick a tombstone & be welcomed by the buzzards!đŸȘŠ

    We embraced the WildWest and chose to stay at Tombstone RV park. The whole trip didn't disappoint! This place is so nice. We were welcomed and escorted to our plotđŸ€Ł, got settled, and were welcomed by a donkey and its owner that were visiting as well. Bathrooms and showers are clean, and it was nice to do laundry. The pool was crystal clear and refreshing in the AZ heat. We pulled up our boot straps and mounted the 4WD pony and headed to town, which was just up the road. There is a boothill cemetary and the legendary downtown Tombstone and the OK Corral. We even got to ride in a stagecoach! We absolutely loved our stay, and we'll be seeing y'all real soon!🐎đŸȘŠđŸŒ”

  • H
    Jun. 8, 2025

    FR228

    Escape from the Parker Canyon Lake heat

    We didn’t see a single soul until the morning we were packing to leave. Near the AZT trail intersection. We took an offshoot off of FR228. Several spots to pull of with flat clearings, existing makeshift fire rings. We drove far enough up the offshoot road until we got to some bigger trees for shade and to hang hammocks. This offshoot runs along side a seasonal water source that runs down the canyon. I believe this created a draw for wildlife and we were lucky enough to spot several wild turkeys and a couple of black bears. The bears scared off easily with some yelling and making ourselves big. We didn’t see them again. Nice solitude!

  • ball M.
    May. 29, 2025

    Playa Dispersed Campsite

    great

    Playa Dispersed Campsite is a hidden gem located in the stunning landscapes of Arizona. This campsite offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to experience the beauty of nature while enjoying the serenity of a less crowded environment. The site is perfect for camping, hiking, and stargazing, with ample space for tents and RVs. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. The accessibility to nearby trails and natural attractions enhances the camping experience, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the breathtaking surroundings. Overall, Playa Dispersed Campsite is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with head basketball nature.


Guide to Elfrida

Camping near Elfrida, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the Chiricahua Mountains. One camper mentioned, "There are hundreds of beautiful, well-maintained trails throughout the mountain range," making it a great spot for both hiking and wildlife viewing.
  • Birdwatching: The area is known for its diverse bird species. A visitor at Bonita Canyon Campground noted, "This is premier birdwatching country," highlighting the chance to see unique wildlife.
  • Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the night skies are perfect for stargazing. One camper shared, "The views of the night sky are unparalleled," at Bonita Canyon Campground.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Beauty: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Sunny Flat Campground said, "Gorgeous views from every single direction!"
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. A visitor at Cochise Stronghold Campground remarked, "Very nice, quiet campground in a wooded canyon."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming staff. One review for Desert Oasis Campground stated, "Owner and staff very friendly," which adds to the overall experience.

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A camper advised, "Reservations are a must."
  • Limited Amenities: Some sites, such as Cochise Stronghold Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor noted, "There is no water and decent pit toilets."
  • Road Conditions: Access to some campgrounds can be rough. One camper mentioned, "A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow," when referring to the road leading to Dragoon Mountains.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Tombstone RV & Campground, which offers amenities like a pool and clean facilities. A family shared, "The bathrooms were clean and it was a great spot to visit Tombstone."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One camper at Chiricahua Mountains said, "There are tons of hiking trails and beautiful scenery," perfect for family adventures.
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A visitor at Desert Oasis Campground mentioned, "There is a large clubhouse for weekly get-togethers with food," which can be a great way to socialize.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Size Restrictions: Some campgrounds, like Bonita Canyon Campground, have size limits for RVs. A reviewer noted, "Don't try to bring any big rigs as they simply won't fit."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Many sites lack full hookups. A camper at Cochise Stronghold Campground said, "Electric Hookup: No," so plan accordingly.
  • Stay Connected: If you need Wi-Fi, check out Tombstone RV & Campground, where one visitor mentioned, "WiFi at the visitor center," which can be helpful for planning your stay.

Camping near Elfrida, Arizona, offers a unique blend of nature and adventure. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Elfrida, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Elfrida, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 126 campgrounds and RV parks near Elfrida, AZ and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Elfrida, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Elfrida, AZ is Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area with a 4-star rating from 5 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Elfrida, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Elfrida, AZ.