Dispersed camping in the Duncan area spans eastern Arizona and western New Mexico, with options ranging from desert terrain to mountain settings. Located at elevations between 3,600 and 4,800 feet, the region experiences typical high desert conditions with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night. Summer monsoon season typically runs July through September, which can impact accessibility on dirt roads.
What to do
Rockhounding adventures: Black Hills Rockhound attracts gem enthusiasts searching for fire agates and chalcedony. "There are about 7 designated camp sites. It's wide open and no shade. We were there in March 2025. Small fire agates are all over the area but mostly chalcedony available," reports one visitor.
Hot springs soaking: At Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area, visitors enjoy unique thermal pools that operate via solar power. "I have been full timing in my 22 ft travel Trailer for 2.5 years.. this easily is one of my fav spots. Camping is $3a day near the hot wells but outside the recreation area, is all BLM camping," shares a camper.
Off-road exploration: The area offers extensive networks of trails for ATVs and 4WD vehicles. "There is a lot of trails for riding dirt bikes and ATVS," notes a visitor to Hot Well Dunes. At Indian Bread Rocks, "Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike."
What campers like
Remote solitude: Many camping areas provide isolation despite relatively easy access. At Indian Bread Rocks, "This site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C."
Affordable fees: Most best places to camp near Duncan, Arizona feature low or no fees. Owl Creek Campground offers structured campsites with amenities at minimal cost. "We really enjoy this spot. There are 7 campsites with ramadas and fire rings. One small pit toilet. There's a small hiking trail to a bridge that leads to the day use area and along the creek. $5 a night is great too!"
Wildlife viewing: The riparian areas attract diverse wildlife. "We saw some coatimundi and lots of evidence of other wildlife!" reports a visitor to Owl Creek Campground, while at Gila Lower Box Canyon, a visitor notes, "You can also watch bands of coatimundis grazing through the bosque. Watch out for rattlesnakes and Gila monsters during the warmer months though."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to many sites requires careful driving. At Round Mountain Rockhound Area, "Be prepared as the drive in is difficult and long. Larger RVs are not recommended as the road has many steep washouts and ruts. The main dirt road leading into the area has bad washboard bumps."
Limited services: Most camping areas lack basic amenities. "There are no facilities, amenities, or anyone to hold your hand. And it's a fair amount of time to Silver City, so we were more aware of safety than usual," warns a visitor to Gila Lower Box Canyon.
Weather challenges: The region experiences extreme temperature fluctuations and seasonal storms. "It is SUPER windy most days so be prepared," notes a camper at Hot Well Dunes, while another mentions, "We didn't have a fire, but they are permitted (as long as there isn't a fire ban in effect)."
Tips for camping with families
Shade requirements: The desert environment offers limited natural shade. "It's wide open and no shade," notes a visitor to Black Hills Rockhound Area. Bring shade structures, especially in summer months when temperatures routinely exceed 100°F.
Kid-friendly activities: Several areas offer natural exploration opportunities. "The Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area can be fun for children who enjoy OHV activities. "What a perfect place to stay and unwind after riding atvs. This site has some really great spots. There are two rows of tall trees about halfway down. They have lots of shade, fire pits and picnic tables."
Proximity to facilities: For families wanting more amenities, Riverview Campground provides a balance of natural setting with basic facilities. "Open well kept campground. 5 bucks a night. Just a walk from the river and a nice riparian area. Campsites have a ramada with picnic table and a fire ring."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have limited level areas for larger rigs. At Indian Bread Rocks, "There are a couple spots for Class A rigs and a lot for smaller. Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful."
Overnight access: The area serves as a convenient stopover for travelers. "Traveling to saguaro and stopped here to rest for the night. Very spacious plenty of dispersed spots. No services so be sure to have a way to pack your trash and use the bathroom!" reports a visitor to Indian Bread Rocks.
Road clearance: Even campgrounds labeled as big-rig friendly may present challenges. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns. You turn off the pavement to dirt the last 1/4 mile. Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," advises an RVer about Riverview Campground.
