Top Free Dispersed Camping near Elfrida, AZ

If you're looking for a place to dispersed camp near Elfrida, look no further. Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Elfrida just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Elfrida, AZ (25)

    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
    Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains

    1. Dragoon Mountains

    10 Reviews
    21 Photos
    150 Saves

    Part of the Douglas Ranger District

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Firewood Available
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed

    2. Juniper Flats Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    13 Photos
    84 Saves

    Camping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
    • No image available

      6. Sorin Camp

      1 Review
      27 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • No image available

        7. Whitewater Draw WMA

        1 Review
        8 Saves

        There are officially four campsites at Whitewater Draw. Parking is on a gravel surface and a metal pipe barrier loosely encloses a picnic table within the greater open space. A tent easily fits within this barrier, and a 35ft Class A, plus tow vehicle, can comfortably park within the designated site.

        • Pets
        • Phone Service
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        • Alcohol
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
        Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road

        8. West Hunt Road

        2 Reviews
        4 Photos
        11 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Group
        • Standard (Tent/RV)
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site
        Camper-submitted photo from Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site

        9. Camp Site 001 Dispersed Site

        1 Review
        11 Photos
        9 Saves

        You may camp outside of developed areas across most of the Coronado National Forest at no charge. We recommend that you stop in to one of our five ranger stations to pick up a free travel management map so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted. Potable water, restrooms, and other amenities are not available at dispersed sites. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas. The Coronado National Forest has a 14-day stay limit on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.

        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Dispersed
        • No image available

          10. Miller Backcountry Camp

          1 Review
          7 Saves

          The Hereford Trailhead provides access to the San Pedro Trail to the San Pedro House along Highway 90 to the north, approximately 9.5 miles away, and to Waters Road to the south, approximately 3.5 miles. The Hereford trailhead includes improved parking, a picnic shelter and tables, and a toilet. The trail is available for non-motorized travel, including hiking, bicycling and equestrian riding. The trail to the north crosses under the Hereford Road Bridge, and follows a historic road along the scenic San Pedro River valley, and passes several historic farm fields that are now turning into sacaton grassland and mesquite bosque. The trail passes by the Miller Backcountry Camp approximately 6 miles north of Hereford. The camp has is primitive, with tent pads, fireplaces, and a toilet. The trail south also follows the river valley, and crosses historic farm fields also revegetating to native plant communities. The trail passes by an artesian about a mile south of the trailhead, where an aquatic habitat refugia is maintained.

          • Fires
          • Tents
          • Dispersed
          • Toilets
        Showing results 1-10 of 25 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Elfrida

        64 Reviews of 25 Elfrida Campgrounds


        • Joan D.
          Camper-submitted photo from AZT/ Parker Trailhead Dispersed
          Sep. 2, 2024

          AZT/ Parker Trailhead Dispersed

          Not really a Campsite

          We stayed here in late August to hike the AZ Trail, but it isn't really a campsite. We set up a tiny tent in the tall grass, but there isn't a designated place to set-up camp, fire pit, etc. Also, it might get busy with cars during the more popular hiking seasons because it is a starting point for both passage 1 and 2 of the Arizona Trail. That being said, it worked for us for one night. It had a nice view of the lake.

        • Cass G.
          Camper-submitted photo from Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest
          Jul. 26, 2024

          Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest

          One on my favorites

          This is site is always a fun time, i’ve been camping along this dirt road so many times and now make it a yearly visit. All of these photos are different years. For greener grass I recommend going any month before late August! All photos taken with dry grass is October various years. Tons of dispersed camping sites and pull offs along the dirt road once you pass Parker Canyon Lake area. Good hiking in the area, tons of wildlife. Watch out for rattlesnakes and javelina especially if you have dogs with you! Most of the sites have fire rings already established so you don’t have to do much work. I’d rate it 11/10!

        • Julie F.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
          May. 28, 2024

          Dragoon Mountains

          Lots of sites, beautiful and peaceful

          Off of main road, it’s about 10 miles + of washboard. A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow. Lots of sites available, also very popular. Beautiful dragoon mountains. Stayed about 1 miles after the Slavin Gulch hike (great hike). Was here thanksgiving weekend (Nov 2023)

        • TThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
          May. 4, 2024

          Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

          Felt like camping on desert safari

          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. Lots of animals nearby very loud waking up and ants on the ground, we were glad we were in a roof tent not on the ground.

        • CThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
          Apr. 12, 2024

          Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

          Peaceful and Quiet

          Take Middle March road on left off of highway 80. Campsite is 10 miles on the left. The first .5 miles is paved, the other 9.5 miles is primitive (embedded rock, loose gravel, and about 75%washboard). You’ll cross a few cattle guards and dry river beds. Plenty of camping spots with fire rings.

        • Dean E.
          Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
          Feb. 21, 2024

          West Hunt Road

          By Cochise Stronghold trailhead

          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.

        • TThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from West Turkey Creek Dispersed
          Jan. 10, 2024

          West Turkey Creek Dispersed

          Gorgeous

          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. Couldn’t see good enough in the dark. The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk. Not a lot of traffic, and a trail right up the road to hike or follow the creek. The last campers left it so nice I was able to add decorations.

        • h
          Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
          Jan. 10, 2024

          Dragoon Mountains

          Amazing

          Make sure to take the road out of tombstone, east to find. Road it a bit washboard but not hard. So many sites to find.

        • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Dec. 27, 2023

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Serene Dispersed Camping Location

          A beautiful, serene location not too far from I-10 and Fort Bowie. We arrived at around 10pm in our Sprinter van and found a quiet location. The campsites are far apart and you travel on compacted dirt road to get there. The father you go, the more space you have. It will be quite bumpy if you do not have an AWD or 4x4.

        • Remington R.
          Camper-submitted photo from West Hunt Road
          Nov. 21, 2023

          West Hunt Road

          Nice...

          Road going in is horrible, washboard the whole way... it's a beautiful little camping area, no bathrooms and no water... I have T-mobile. I didn't get a signal at all, but I have a T-mobile internet modem, and it got a good signal... Beautiful views of the mountains whare I was parked I watched people free climb up than back down, I don't recommend that it was extremely steep...

        • JThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks
          Oct. 17, 2023

          Indian Bread Rocks

          Nice dispersed camping area

          Happy Camp Canyon is in fairly good condition. There is a trailhead parking area that is posted as no camping but about 50 yards further down there is a clearing with fire rings. We ended up sharing the spot with some cattle for a while.

        • H
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Sep. 4, 2023

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Great spot for a quick camp spot

          Overall the stay was great. My only complaint would be the bugs that were swarming in the morning. They only swarm certain plants and we happened to be by one so we had bugs EVERYWHERE. But it wasn’t a big deal. We just quickly packed up and went and ate breakfast at the picnic area right down the road and explored the granite rocks for a while.

        • Kelly K.
          Camper-submitted photo from Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
          Aug. 19, 2023

          Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687

          Beautiful views, spread out dispersed camps

          Middleware road is highly washboarded. 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.

        • A
          Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Flats Dispersed
          Jul. 4, 2023

          Juniper Flats Dispersed

          Outstanding Views

          Road is very steep in places. 4 wheel drive would be necessary if road is wet or raining, otherwise passenger car and truck passable. Camping spots are at the edges which makes for fantastic sunrises and sunsets

        • Untrammelers B.
          Camper-submitted photo from Charleston LDS Monument Site
          Feb. 28, 2023

          Charleston LDS Monument Site

          Good Free Camping

          We were able to easily get our RV there and tour Tombstone during the day. Quiet…close to road but road isn’t busy. It’s basically just a parking lot at a trailhead. It will do if you are looking for a quick spot to lay your head. There were other campers…we felt safe there.

        • Haley L.
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Feb. 25, 2023

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Great Spot

          We got there far later than we should have (10:30pm) but were able to find a little space. It was, of course, difficult to navigate in the dark. The entrance was sooner than GPS showed but not too difficult to find. Sadly, we only saw hoof prints. No cows.

        • Aliza  N.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Dec. 17, 2022

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Top notch dispersed camping area

          We really enjoyed our time here! The cows were great to watch and we got some great video of them! The road in was dirt and washboard here and there but overall could be easily passed by most any car. GPS coords were pretty accurate as well. Once you are off the main road the sand can be pretty deep and some of the turns pretty tight so scope it out if your in a bigger rig, before heading in. Lots of spots on the left in the first loops and on a spur to the right near some cool rocks. Not many people around when we were here and was nice and quiet.

        • Monte W.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest
          Nov. 26, 2022

          Pinery Canyon Road Dispersed Camping - Coronado National Forest

          Awesome dispersed sites

          Drove about 40 minutes down pinery canyon road. Roads weren’t terrible but had a few washboard spots. Several sites located off the main road. Plenty of wood to collect for the fire. It was pretty cold at night in late November but there was plenty of space between sites that my generator wasn’t offensive to others. Very clean site too.

        • T
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Nov. 26, 2022

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Easy access exploring and beautiful spot

          This has been our favorite campsite of our road trip so far. Noteworthy mentions: It is off the beaten path. It’s free. There are free roaming cattle There are endless rocks to explore and climb. It will keep your attention for days. Not many people here. Campfires allowed. Would recommend a 4x4 to get to further sites. Awesome remnants of Native American activity. You’re right next to where you wanna be. Thumbs up.

        • L
          Camper-submitted photo from Dragoon Mountains
          Oct. 30, 2022

          Dragoon Mountains

          Lovely

          We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks. Pretty popular place, most spots along the road were occupied but seemed like there were a couple open. Rangers stopped by mid day.

        • S
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Oct. 24, 2022

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Great time here

          Directions from Dyrt were spot on. As others have said If you have a Big rig park by the day use area and SCOUT it out! After the first few sites the road becomes real sandy in places and not anywhere to turn big rigs around without it being sketchy. We stayed about a mile in on the left next to some huge rocks, nice firepit, no trash, no shade. Will be here two weeks. Met some ranchers moving some of their cattle other than them saw nobody. My dogs loved it. I was just concerned about keeping them safe from rattlesnakes. Have seen at least one every day. One was HUGE @ 5' western diamondback but very beautiful red brick color. Just be very aware as this is their home we're just visiting.

        • Morgan T.
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          Jun. 19, 2022

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Cows!

          This site was pretty easy to get to and at the foothills were beautiful and well-maintained. Didn’t use the restroom because there was a giant spider and there wasn’t TP, but it was there. People left rock fire pits, which we also didn’t use, but it’s nice they were there. Woke up to see cows hanging around and got to see a baby cow and mom, which was so sweet.

        • Cameron M.
          Camper-submitted photo from Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed
          May. 26, 2022

          Indian Bread Rocks / Happy Camp Trail - Dispersed

          Cool scenic spot, lots of critters

          Stayed here on our way to New Mexico. It was a beautiful spot, very scenic. The dirt was soft as sand, and the area was cleaner than most. The only negative was their was tons of wasps at our site, not sure about the others. They didn’t mess with us but they were annoying like flies.



        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

        • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Elfrida, AZ?

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Elfrida, AZ is Dragoon Mountains with a 5-star rating from 10 reviews.

        • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Elfrida, AZ?

          TheDyrt.com has all 25 dispersed camping locations near Elfrida, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.