Tent camping opportunities near Kearny, Arizona extend beyond established campgrounds into numerous primitive sites within Tonto National Forest. Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Phoenix at an elevation around 2,000 feet, the region experiences extreme temperature shifts—summer days regularly exceed 100°F while winter nights can drop below freezing. Flash flooding remains a concern during monsoon season (July-September) when normally dry washes can fill rapidly.
What to do
Riverside exploration: Shores Recreation Area offers direct access to the Gila River where campers can fish, wade, or simply relax. "We came in and stayed at a spot towards the south/downstream where a high clearance would be wise. Great spots on the river. We spent the night there and had the place to ourselves," notes camper Carolyn.
Wildlife viewing: At higher elevation sites like General Hitchcock Campground, visitors can spot diverse desert wildlife. One camper mentions, "Keep on the lookout for lots of birds and Big Horned Sheep as you paddle/boat up river to the Horse Mesa Dam area."
Off-road adventures: Many dispersed sites require navigating challenging terrain. Near Gold Canyon, rougher roads lead to secluded spots. "There are a lot of sites, lots of utvs and folks riding horses out here. Town is close, close enough you can hear it," reports Dexter V. about nearby dispersed areas.
What campers like
Mountain views: Peralta Regional Park offers remarkable views of the Superstition Mountains. "Amazing stay! Came across a rattle snake when hiking. Very quiet and peaceful. Clean dark sky for star watching," writes camper Chevis L.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation sites provide relief from Kearny's intense summer heat. "This sky island campground in Mt Lemmon is perfect for a quick weekend getaway from Tucson. The weather here is 10-15 degrees cooler than the city," notes Candy P. about General Hitchcock Campground.
Solitude: Less developed sites provide separation from crowds. At Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp, one camper reports, "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed sites near Kearny require high-clearance vehicles. One camper at Hackamore Road notes, "The road is a bit tricky. I got here pretty smooth on my RWD Xterra, so while 4WD isn't necessary, I wouldn't come out here without high clearance and decent suspension."
Water access: Most tent camping sites lack potable water. At Diversion Dam, facilities are minimal. "The reason this is not a perfect 5 star is because it is limited to tents only, doesn't have much shade coverage, and the open areas are fairly rocky," explains one visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Kearny experience extreme seasonal variations. "There were three groups that just came for a picnic then left, which surprised me considering the miles of washboard dirt road to get there," notes Rachel W. about Sulphide Del Rey Campground during a Memorial Day weekend.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds for family tent camping. "There are about 14 camp sights, some right by the little river that forms during snowfall. We camped at site 6, right across from the restrooms. Has some nice boulders to tuck your tent away in," notes Paul S. about General Hitchcock.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about desert wildlife safety. "Came across a rattle snake when hiking," mentions one Peralta Regional Park visitor, highlighting the importance of proper footwear and vigilance on trails.
Temperature planning: Schedule activities during cooler hours. "This will be a scorcher in the middle of summer but the sites do have tree cover for shade," one camper notes about regional temperatures, which routinely exceed 100°F during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many tent camping sites near Kearny aren't suitable for larger vehicles. "Not very much room for a trailer, mostly tent camping," explains Michael L. about Sulphide Del Rey Campground.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at most dispersed sites. "I have a love/hate relationship with this place. It's got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby. The road in is just terrible & it's very dirty," explains Jordan S. about Hackamore Road Dispersed camping.
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "Did get cell phone service there though," notes Michael L. about Sulphide Del Rey, while other more remote locations may have no service, requiring advance trip planning and offline maps.
