Dispersed tent camping around Littlefield, Arizona offers access to remote desert landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,500 feet. The area features a mix of red rock formations, Joshua tree forests, and riparian zones along the Virgin River. Temperatures in this region fluctuate dramatically, with summer days often exceeding 100°F while winter nights can drop into the low 30s.
What to do
Explore local waterways: The Virgin River corridor near Virgin River Campgrounds provides opportunities to cool off during hot months. "Hi, we visited Virgin river as a getway on the way from Vegas to Zion NP. We where very glad to find a peacfull, quiet, clen and clear sky campground in a beautifull desert location," reports one camper.
Rock climbing adventures: At Veyo Pool and Crawdad Canyon, campers can climb directly at the base of steep rock walls. A reviewer noted, "Individual camping spots along a river valley with steep climbing walls. Camp almost directly at the base of your climb." The site is approximately 30 minutes from St. George.
Wilderness hiking: The backcountry trails at Paiute Wilderness Area offer solitude and challenging terrain. "It's as remote a place as I've found to camp without going deeper into GC Parashant. Good place for adventure if you like to make your own," writes one tent camper who visited the area.
What campers like
Natural swimming holes: Many tent campers near Littlefield enjoy the swimming opportunities at Beaver Dam Wash. "Spent a wonderful evening at this campground. I drove in about a mile and a half. There were not lots of areas to pull off, but I did see a few other campers," one visitor mentioned.
Joshua tree forests: The unique desert vegetation at Beaver Dam Washington Dispersed Camping area draws photographers and nature enthusiasts. As one reviewer described, "Only campers there, Joshua trees, views, starry nights, easy access off 91. Some cows roaming around but they did not spoil the experience."
Remote stargazing: The darkness of the night skies away from urban areas creates exceptional stargazing conditions. At Leeds Canyon Dispersed #1, a camper reported, "Beyond gorgeous views with camping spots really spread out!" The absence of light pollution enhances astronomical viewing.
What you should know
Extreme temperature variations: Tent camping near Littlefield requires preparation for wide temperature swings. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions with daytime highs in the 70s-80s°F and nights in the 40s-50s°F.
Limited facilities: Most dispersed tent camping areas have no services. A camper at Kolob Terrace Road advises, "It was a nice spread out camp area. There were a couple of other vans there but the trees and campgrounds offered a fair bit of privacy."
Road conditions: Access to prime camping spots often requires navigating unpaved roads. A Leeds Canyon visitor warned, "We went with 26ft trailer mid march. As someone else mentioned it is good for rv only on the first four or so. After that we wondered how we were going to turn around."
Wildlife awareness: Campers should prepare for encounters with desert wildlife. One tent camper reported, "Tiny adorable lizards everywhere... Beautiful colorful birds are abundant... RIDICULOUS BUGS AFTER DARK -saw a camel spider... -lots of gnats."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: The swimming facilities at Veyo Pool make it ideal for families with children. One reviewer shared, "This is kids favorite camp spot. Plenty of things to do. My only complaint is the privacy. We got the largest site and people walked through our camp constantly."
Stream activities: Several camping areas feature shallow streams perfect for children to explore. A visitor to Virgin River noted, "Campsites have plenty of shade and the river is nearby."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Dawn and dusk provide the best times to spot desert wildlife with children. Several campers reported deer sightings at established campgrounds like Mitt Moody, which one visitor called "our new regular campground for our Fam."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Tent camping in Littlefield is generally more accessible than RV camping. A visitor to Paiute Wilderness Area cautioned, "An abundance of boondock spots abound. Some of the roads are rough and were a bit strong for our little campervan yet it was well worth it."
Leveling requirements: Many dispersed sites require significant leveling. At Oak Grove Campground, a reviewer noted, "Road is graded gravel but is steep and narrow access and the 8 sites are small. Travel trailers and large RVs are not recommended."
Temperature management: RV campers should prepare for extreme heat by seeking sites with natural shade. One camper advised seeking spots "farther from major roads, where highway noise diminishes" for better overnight temperatures.
