Safford camping areas range from 3,200 feet in the desert basin to nearly 11,000 feet on Mount Graham. The region experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations, with winter closures affecting mountain access routes. Most mountain campgrounds limit RVs to 22 feet or less due to narrow switchback roads.
What to do
Fishing at Riggs Flat Lake: This small mountain lake sits at 9,000 feet elevation and offers trout and bass fishing opportunities. The lake requires a valid Arizona fishing license and trout stamp. "The fishing is great for beginners and kids, not hard at all and the entire lake is easily accessible," notes one visitor to Riggs Flat Campground.
Hiking near Arcadia: Located along the Swift Trail (AZ-366), this lower-elevation campground serves as an excellent base camp for mountain exploration. "There is a 10-mile round trip hiking trail to Shannon Campground," reports a camper at Arcadia Campground. The diverse habitat makes it "an excellent area for bird watching."
River activities: The Gila River provides water recreation opportunities near desert camping areas. "A little bit of walk to river but not bad... The Bonita creek drive is gorgeous and provides creek water you can get in," writes a camper at Riverview Campground. This area offers biking, horse, hiking, and OHV trails all close by.
What campers like
Thermal contrasts: The dramatic temperature differences between desert and mountain elevations allow campers to escape summer heat. A visitor at Arcadia noted, "Within a 30 mins drive from the nearest town, you can leave 112 degree heat, cactus, and sand to find yourself surrounded by large pine, long mountain hikes & 30 degree difference in temperature!"
Wildlife viewing: Deer and small mammals are common sightings in mountain campgrounds. "A deer came through," mentions a camper at Arcadia Campground. Desert areas offer different wildlife experiences, though campers should be cautious as "there were a lot of skunks in the area and they will get into your things at night if you don't clean up," warns a visitor at Riggs Flat.
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many campgrounds maintain excellent facilities. "The bathrooms were extremely clean and maintained," reports a camper at Arcadia. Similarly, at Gila Campground, a visitor observed that "the facilities are immaculately clean. I mean the cleanest campground restrooms I've ever seen."
What you should know
Road conditions: Mountain access requires preparation. "Road is super rough and narrow in spots going up Mt Graham," cautions a Riggs Flat visitor. For desert dispersed camping at Haekel Rd, conditions are more favorable: "Wide open area, gravel road to access camping areas. No designated sites but plenty of flat open areas to stop."
Weather considerations: Desert camping areas offer limited natural protection. One camper at Haekel Road noted, "There is absolutely nothing at this site to create shade or a wind block. Fortunately we had only light breezes at dawn and dusk."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping requires self-sufficiency. "No water, so make sure to bring your own," advises an Arcadia camper. At Tanque Road, a visitor reports it offers "no services, no water, no toilets, just beautiful open desert."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water recreation: Roper Lake State Park provides accessible water fun. "Kids were able to ride bikes on the numerous paths around the campgrounds and lake," mentions a camper at Cottonwood Campground. Another visitor notes it has a "beach swimming area is very large and never felt crowded by people!"
Space considerations: Choose campgrounds with adequate site spacing when camping with children. At Cottonwood Campground, campers report "plenty of space between campsites," making it easier for families to spread out equipment and allow children to play.
Wildlife education opportunities: Mountain campgrounds offer chances to observe diverse ecosystems. "Surrounded by large pine, a cool breeze and a cornucopia of wildlife!" exclaims an Arcadia visitor, making it ideal for nature education activities.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most mountain roads cannot accommodate large RVs. "RV's up to 22' and vehicles with trailers less than 21' are recommended. Longer vehicles have difficulty negotiating the switchbacks on AZ 366," explains an Arcadia camper.
Desert dispersed options: For larger RVs, desert BLM lands offer more accessible sites. At Haekel Road Dispersed Camping, a visitor confirms it's "big rig friendly" with "plenty of flat open areas to stop."
Campground amenities: RVers seeking hookups should consider established campgrounds. "We are newer to RV camping but really liked this campground. Fairly busy, Easter weekend, but didn't seem like we were on top of each other," reports a Cottonwood Campground visitor.
