Best Dispersed Camping near Fort Mcdowell, AZ

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Fort Mcdowell, AZ has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Fort Mcdowell. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fort Mcdowell, Arizona (67)

    1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "Pretty passable dirt road (our G20 camper van had no problems). Sunsets were so so pretty and for us Washingtonians, camping in the desert amongst the saguaros was 👌🏼."

    2. Box Bar Road Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    "Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car , wich there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that."

    "We don’t have an offroad car, so it is always nice when the gravel road is well managed. No heart aches getting in and finding an open area to camp."

    3. Hackamore Road Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "It's on BLM land, so you are out of the reach of the Arizona Land Permits.

    The road is a bit tricky."

    "It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby."

    4. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance

    5 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    "Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID.   "

    5. Bartlett Reservoir

    4 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    "Such a big lake, every time I go it's a whole different experience . Best thing about this lake is back up to water & pitch ur tent.. no set camp area, just make yourselves comfy where u choose ."

    6. Verde River Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 595-3300

    7. Mesquite Wash Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    "The sites itself are right off the highway. Plenty of spots and flat ground to camp on. However, the road to get down to the sites is pretty rough. Would recommend 4x4 capabilities."

    8. Sycamore Creek Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Tonto Basin, AZ
    15 miles

    "There 2 or 3 sites right off the highway, but if you continue down the road there is a larger area with plenty of other sites. Small shrubs and tree around that give privacy from other campers."

    9. Saguaro Cove

    2 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    "Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water.  Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. "

    10. Stewart's Camp

    1 Review
    Tonto National Forest, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    $8 / night

    "There's no cell service which makes this place a perfect place to just get away without having to go forever away from the valley. Hunting and off roading available."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fort Mcdowell, AZ

259 Reviews of 67 Fort Mcdowell Campgrounds



Guide to Fort Mcdowell

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fort McDowell, Arizona, where nature lovers can enjoy the serene landscapes and outdoor adventures. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Fort McDowell, Arizona

  • When visiting Hackamore Road Dispersed, be prepared for a rough road; high clearance vehicles are recommended for a smoother experience.
  • At Mesquite Wash Dispersed, it's essential to pack out all trash, as the area has seen an increase in restrictions due to littering.
  • For those seeking a quieter experience, the Verde River Dispersed Camping area offers a more secluded environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Bulldog Canyon

  • The Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance is known for its stunning scenery, but a 4x4 vehicle is necessary to navigate the rugged terrain.
  • Campers should note that permits are required for access to Bulldog Canyon, making it essential to plan ahead before heading out.
  • Be aware that the area can be busy with off-highway vehicles, so if you're looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays or off-peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Fort Mcdowell, AZ is Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance with a 3.8-star rating from 27 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Fort Mcdowell, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 67 dispersed camping locations near Fort Mcdowell, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.