Primitive camping near Glendale, Arizona offers visitors direct access to classic Sonoran Desert terrain with elevations ranging from 1,100 to 2,500 feet. Most dispersed sites feature minimal shade and temperatures that can exceed 110°F in summer months. Winter nights can drop below 40°F between November and February, creating more comfortable conditions for backcountry camping experiences.
What to do
Desert hiking access: At Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, campers can explore surrounding trails through cacti-laden terrain. "Beautiful campsite setting nestled against the Saddle Mountains. Beautiful Sunsets & Sunrises. Stargazing is spectacular," notes one visitor about the nearby landscape.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings at wilderness camping areas provide chances to spot desert wildlife. "Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well," reports a camper at Old Airstrip Camping.
Off-road vehicle trails: For those with OHVs, Boulders OHV Area provides designated routes. "Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites. Can get busy on holiday or event weekends but worth it otherwise," writes one reviewer.
What campers like
Cell service reliability: Many remote camping spots maintain good connectivity. At Saddle Mountain BLM, campers appreciate staying connected while enjoying nature. "The land goes way back to the mountain, you can go deeper as there are many more level spots beyond the main area," shares one reviewer who maintained service.
Winter temperature patterns: Cooler months draw campers to backcountry sites. "It was pretty hot, as would be expected here, but the breeze through the night was enough to keep us cooled off with the tent vents opened," notes a Saddle Mountain visitor regarding desert climate management.
Site spacing: Wilderness camping near Glendale offers good separation between campers. "Lots of camping spots before and after this specific location. Camping spots are spread out," mentions a Saddle Mountain visitor, highlighting the privacy available at many primitive sites.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Many areas require Arizona State Land Trust permits. "We paid the $16 annual state land trust fee. Stayed a few nights," explains a camper at Maddock Road Dispersed, noting the current fee structure for legal access.
Site closures: Some previously accessible camping areas have recently closed. "Unfortunately, the state has closed this area down. Brand new 'No Motor Vehicle' signs installed," reports a camper about Dispersed Camping off Highway 74, highlighting the importance of checking current status.
Road conditions: Access roads vary considerably in quality. "The road in is a little rough, but ok. Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties," notes a visitor at Old Airstrip Camping, describing typical access challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Desert terrain presents unique challenges for children. "The typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable," explains a visitor at Boulders OHV Area, suggesting families choose sites closer to main roads.
Weekend vs. weekday visits: Timing affects crowding and noise levels. "Weekdays are best...Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules," advises a camper at State Land Trust/Inspiration Point, noting the significant difference in experience.
Bug considerations: Some areas experience insect issues. "Flies are horrendous out here, no matter what you try to do to keep them away or out it's almost impossible to do!" warns a Saddle Mountain visitor, suggesting families bring appropriate protection.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Larger RVs require careful location scouting. "This is one of my favorite areas to boondock in the southwest winter season...Sites here can accommodate the big rigs, but the smaller you are the more options you have," advises an experienced RVer at Saddle Mountain.
Services nearby: Despite primitive camping conditions, supplies remain accessible. "If you need to dump and/or get fresh water Wickenburg is just miles up the road and the Fast Mart Chevron station has two stations for this, plus propane," notes a visitor at North Castle Hot Springs Road Camp.
Parking strategies: First-time boondockers should scout before committing. "Like any time your looking for a site, park in a safe place and search by either foot or in my case ebike," suggests a Saddle Mountain camper, highlighting the importance of checking terrain before parking large vehicles.
