Best Dispersed Camping near Marana, AZ
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Marana, AZ (22)
1. Cactus Forest Dispersed
Marana, Arizona28 Reviews•122 Photos•267 SavesLocation is near Park Link Drive - S. Cattle Tanks Road BLM
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
2. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Cortaro, Arizona28 Reviews•78 Photos•220 SavesCamping on public lands away from developed recreation facilities is referred to as dispersed camping. Most of the remainder of public lands are open to dispersed camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas posted "closed to camping," or in some way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources. Dispersed camping is allowed on public land for a period not to exceed 14 days within a 28 consecutive day period. The 28 day period begins when a camper initially occupies a specific location on public lands. The 14 day limit may be reached either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous overnight occupation during the 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, the camper must move outside of a 25 mile radius of the previous location until the 29th day since the initial occupation. The purpose of this special rule is to prevent damage to sensitive resources caused by continual use of any particular areas. In addition, campers must not leave any personal property unattended for more than 10 days (12 months in Alaska). Campsite Selection Dispersed camp sites are located along most secondary roads and may not be marked. Popular locations can be recognized by the telltale flat disturbed area that has been used as a camp site before. Not all flat spots are sites. If possible, please use existing sites to avoid creating new disturbances. To further protect your public lands, campers must not dispose of any refuse, hazardous materials, sewage, or in any manner pollute the surrounding area.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
3. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
Picacho, Arizona17 Reviews•66 Photos•152 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
$20 / night
4. Cactus Forest Dispersed Site
Marana, Arizona10 Reviews•42 Photos•90 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- WiFi
- Alcohol
5. Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed
Marana, Arizona10 Reviews•44 Photos•65 SavesThis Ironwood Forest National Monument is made up of 129,000 acres and contains a significant system of cultural and historical sites covering a 5,000-year period. Possessing one of the richest stands of ironwood in the Sonoran Desert, the monument also encompasses several desert mountain ranges including the Silver Bell, Waterman, and Sawtooth, with desert valleys in between. Elevation ranges from 1,800 to 4,261 feet. Three areas within the monument, the Los Robles Archeological District, the Mission of Santa Ana del Chiquiburitac and the Cocoraque Butte Archeological District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The monument is a travel corridor for illegal immigrants traveling from Mexico. All suspected illegal activities should be reported to BLM or local law enforcement authorities. Stay safe by avoiding contact with persons exhibiting suspicious behavior or engaged in dangerous activities. Drive with caution and look for fast-moving vehicles and pedestrians on back roads. Some roads are rugged: high clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended in those areas.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Dispersed
6. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Marana, Arizona7 Reviews•29 Photos•72 SavesThis Ironwood Forest National Monument (map: https://www.blm.gov/sites/blm.gov/files/docs/2020-12/AZ_IronwoodForestNM-508.pdf) is made up of 129,000 acres and contains a significant system of cultural and historical sites covering a 5,000-year period. Possessing one of the richest stands of ironwood in the Sonoran Desert, the monument also encompasses several desert mountain ranges including the Silver Bell, Waterman, and Sawtooth, with desert valleys in between. Elevation ranges from 1,800 to 4,261 feet. Three areas within the monument, the Los Robles Archeological District, the Mission of Santa Ana del Chiquiburitac and the Cocoraque Butte Archeological District are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The monument is a travel corridor for illegal immigrants traveling from Mexico. All suspected illegal activities should be reported to BLM or local law enforcement authorities. Stay safe by avoiding contact with persons exhibiting suspicious behavior or engaged in dangerous activities. Drive with caution and look for fast-moving vehicles and pedestrians on back roads. Some roads are rugged: high clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended in those areas.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
7. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
Saguaro National Park, Arizona15 Reviews•35 Photos•320 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Cactus Forest Dispersed - High Clearance
Picacho, Arizona3 Reviews•11 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. AZ State Land North Pump Station Road Dispersed
Marana, Arizona3 Reviews•10 Photos•12 SavesA Recreational Permit allows the authorized permittee limited privileges to use State Trust land for some recreation. Recreation under this permit is limited to: geocaching, hiking, horseback riding, picnics, bicycling, photography, sightseeing and bird watching. Overnight camping is restricted to no more than 14 cumulative days per year. Remote-controlled aircraft (drones) may be operated on State Trust land with a Recreational Permit and in conjunction with applicable local, state, and federal regulations.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
10. Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Willow Canyon, Arizona4 Reviews•5 Photos•151 SavesYou may camp outside of developed areas across most of the Coronado National Forest at no charge. We recommend that you stop in to one of our five ranger stations to pick up a free travel management map so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted.
Potable water, restrooms, and other amenities are not available at dispersed sites. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas.
The Coronado National Forest has a 14-day stay limit on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Marana
150 Reviews of 22 Marana Campgrounds
Greg L.
Legend
Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Trash camping close to tucson
SNYDER HILL BLM DISPERSED.
Recently posted basic camping info about this place close to Tucson west side at Ajo Hwy 86. . Some commenters got upset that I had mentioned this spot on a FB dispersed camping page, as if it was a secret or a pristine location! Hah!
REALITY update: This place is a 100% CRAP HOLE and should be shutdown by the BLM. Full of marginal rundown vehicles and homeless tent campers. Trash and glass everywhere. Hwy 86 noise 24/7, recreational shooters constant adj somewhere.
Note that the State of AZ closed and fenced off their adj section two years ago, and another BLM parcel to east past the fire station was closed to camping last year. Time for this crap hole place to be shutdown, imo.
Some pics of the trash noticed.
- EEmma A.
Scout
Cactus Forest Dispersed
Great stay
This was like being able to backcountry camp in Saguaro NP. We got in after dark & overshot the turn in, but looped back around. Our site was great - quiet & peaceful. We enjoyed waking up to the literal forest of cactus.
- SSilas T.
Guide
Pipeline Road BLM Camping
I like it!
Dispersed BLM camping folks the main road in has a pretty good little drop-down I wouldn't take a big rig past the first area on the right there's some pretty good dips in the main road going further back that big bridge are not going to like nor long trailers if you're at a vehicle you'll be all right. Not really a area you want to be in if there's going to be a lot of rain and there are cattle.
- DDaniel G.Scout
Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Cold night, frozen road
We got to the parking area about 7:40 PM on November 10th. Started up the road to the campsite about 2 miles further up the mountain but at about 1/2 mile the road was so icy that we lost traction. Snow on the ground by the road, lots of deer tracks in the snow. Ended up backing down the road to spend the night in the parking lot, sleeping in the van.
ron R.
RangerSnyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Very easy access many spots to camp
Very easy access relatively close to shopping. Out of the way. However there is a light to moderate amount of garbage. It is near a highway and you do hear traffic. Extremely easy to access and there are many spots and the land is pretty full of campers some look like their full-timers or permanent the sign does say 14 day limit. I saw two tent campers as well. There are two or three entrances all on the same road and the camping area is cordoned off with a metal cable so the land cannot be used as a drive-thru or pass through area. The weather is moderate in the 70s during the day down to the lower 50s at night I got here the day before Halloween.
Cass G.Guide
Reddington Pass Dispersed
Rough Road, Off Grid
I’ve camped at Redington Pass a few times throughout the years. It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around. The road is rough but if you don’t mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal.
Easy to find, follow Tanque Verde Rd all the way East until it turns into Redington Road, this then leads to a dirt road with TONS of dispersed camping pull offs with established fire rings. The further east you travel on the pass the less people you have to camp next to. The camping sites closer to the entrance get packed on the weekends.
The further you go you’ll run out of service, no bathrooms, no water hook ups, nothing, just dispersed wild camping!
- jjeffrey O.Scout
Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed
Animals in the forest
I want to know if there are any dangerous animals in such mountains and forests. My group of friends and I are planning to come here to explore among us.
- JJosh P.Scout
Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Well kept and secluded
Awesome views, secluded spots. Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back
- DDynamical Thunder D.Scout
Mount Bigelow Dispersed
Beautiful and friendly
Very crowded on the weekend but the crowd is friendly and respectful. Great way to escape the summer heat of Tucson! Bring your hats and gloves!
- TTeri G.Guide
Cactus Forest Dispersed
Remote, Private, and free but accessible.
Remote, private, and free but accessible. Not a standard RV parking lot campground but rather several campsites with ample space between them for privacy, along an unpaved sandy road, just off a quiet paved back road. About 20-30min from gas stations, water, food, etc. It has no facilities or even pit toilets. Exactly what I wanted. This campground is aptly named as it is quite literally in the middle of a Saguaro cactus forest 🌵 along with many other different cactus species and wildlife. This location is tranquil and wild. I couldn't think of a better way to immerse yourself in the middle of this national park than this campground. It's a tight drive in if you go past the 2-3 RV sites at the beginning of the east side. I have a 2015 Toyota Tacoma with a roof top tent pulling a 12x6 enclosed trailer with standard wheels. My trailer made it through without scratches and at no point did I even think about four-wheel drive. A larger camper I couldn't speak for. It is quite sandy and has some mogul sections where the water flows have washed some of the trail away but overall an easy drive.
Disclosures and warnings:
There are three sides to this campground. The east side, west side, and North end. The West side is the most trailer friendly and most visited as it is where the GPS leads you. However, it gets worse the deeper you go in after roughly 10-15 sites. The east side you could probably manage a trailer for the first 2-3 sites. After that there would be no where to turn around and it gets rough off-road quick, like deep dried up sandy river bed crossings (month of May) and is more exposed to the sun with slightly less cacti than the west side. The North end is the most private and remote of the other two and the quietest. However, it is nothing short of a four-wheel drive off-road trail. I would not recommend anything other than off road vehicles in the north end and the sites are small, just for tents or 1 vehicle.
There are almost no rocks to worry about on the way in but the cacti here are more than capable of creating flat tires so take care to avoid pieces that have fallen onto the road. Especially the Jumping Cholla cacti! They are the worst things you will come across in this campground and are everywhere, easily the most dominant species of cactus in this area. They have evolved to break apart into spiny segments when they make contact with someone or something to propagate. Sometimes if the wind blows strong enough they cover the ground around their base with a mound of their spined segments. These segments often roll or blow into the roadways. The spines are hard as stone and sometimes over 2 in long. They have evolved special reversed barbs that you can't see with your eyes on every main spine. They go into anything except metal, including Kevlar reinforced tire sidewalls like a knife through hot butter and then hook in and don't come out unless you rip them out. I rode my adventure bike through the campground to explore, lost my footing in the sand and fell against one of these. I had 3-4 segments stuck to my arm. I spent 10 to 15 minutes ripping these segments out of my arm, pulling my skin away from my body about an inch before they will rip out. Don't make the same mistake as me.
GUNS! In my opinion the biggest downside to this campground is the almost constant gunfire all day long as there is a public shooting area on the south west side of the campground. If you are in the west side and you are looking southwest, there is a tiny little mountain ridgeline about a half mile away. All around the base of that ridgeline people are allowed to pull up and shoot at targets on the hill side. The locals show up as the sun just comes over the trees around 5:00 a.m. and they don't stop until the sun sets almost everyday of the week. They do however, quit at night so you can sleep.
If you camp here you are IN THE desert. During the day is fine. You will likely only run into swarms of flies. At night however, is a different story. ESPECIALLY If you decide to have a fire on a cold night or set up a lantern near the ground while making dinner. I stayed here for 9 days straight and I came across 6 rattlesnakes (mostly sidewinders), more camel spiders than I can count (at least 5+ per night), 3 brown recluse spiders, packs of coyotes rolling through at night and early morning (watch your pets), and 2 killer bee swarms in the trees. All within the campground boundaries, so just be ready for rugged camping.
- TTimberScout
Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed
Beautiful night
Easy to find- road isn’t too bad. Was quiet, breezy- and just what we were looking for.
- Ericka C.
Traveler
Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
Small site not far from amenities
Great easy little spot that is highly used so make sure you plan ahead. Not all sites have fire circle and if you don’t have a toilet there are only a few bushes tall enough. Works for a quick one nighter.
joel G.Guide
Proctor Rd. Dispersed by Madera Canyon
Elephant head trail head
We Camped here for two nights with a nice view of elephant head. It is an open range so there are cows walking around. There are quite a few camping spots but had all of them filled by the time we made camp on Friday afternoon. One of the really downsides was we had two skunks walk through our site early Saturday morning and one did spray our 10 months old puppy.
- JJennifer M.Guide
Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Very busy with what looked like full time residents
I can’t say for sure because there is a posted 14 day limit but it looked like many of the people where living there are a permanent basis. Site is small and there is no privacy.
As a solo female, I didn’t stay here. I drove over to Ironwood NM and camped there instead.
- JJennifer M.Guide
BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Way better then Snyder Hill
It was well worth the short drive over here to compare it with Snyder Hill. Go through the gate and there are plenty of spaces without being on top other people.
Roads are a little sandy so I’d be careful on them when wet.
- DDwight H.Scout
Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
When I was 19, I spent two weeks camping and hiking through canyon on foot.
We parked car on dirt road above canyon. We were only ones for a week. Then other young group showed up.
Henry E.Traveler
Ragged Top Rd Dispersed
Peacefully Quiet, Awesome Views
Great raised up spot that allows for a full vista of the surrounding mountains and thousands of saguaros. Not a single person drove past the site during the weekend. Overlooks the Pinal County Airport and plane graveyard (this can be seen on the drive in, or with binoculars directly from the site). Adequately lifted 4x4 needed to reach.
Esther S.TravelerSnyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Ok
Don't go if it rained that day! Clay mud all over. We arrived late dusk and couldn't see well. We have 4 wheels truck and still got stuck in the mud. Next morning most of the water had seeped in the ground... 9am tried to move.... no luck. Another camper offered wood boards... we'll see. If it would have been dry, it would be a great easy spot to use.
- Danny T.Guide
Cactus Forest Dispersed Site
Very pretty. Little noisy
January Rv 24 ft Cell service. Att 2 and o 3 bars. Able to stream
This is a beautiful spot. The spots are a little close together.
Not good for dogs really cus of cholla cactus everywhere. Watch where you walk and be sire to check shoes before entering your home for the night.
There is an outdoor shooting range close enough to Hear semi auto’s all day and as late as 10:45 pm. They were at it again at 8 am. Not sure if it is some military training area or what. That gets a bit old. It’s a good distance away so it’s not real loud, just present Road is good to drive big rv or 5th wheel no lroblem
- TTyler E.Traveler
Reddington Pass Dispersed
Camping at reddington pass
Great spot to go camping! The trail into the campground was great, you will need a 4x4 in certain spots, but mostly it’s a smooth ride. At night the view of the stars was beautiful since there was hardly any light pollution. 10/10 recommended
Garrett L.GuideSnyder Hill BLM Camping Area
EASY EASY EASY. Just pack in and PACK OUT
Would recommend pulling in during the day when you have some sunlight. GREAT little hill to hike with a very defined rocky trail. Plenty of fire rings. Do your part and pick up some of the trash! It's such a well-trafficked area that the trash really piles up.
Great little gas station close with water and propane refill stations. Walmart not far either.
Pretty good access to Saguaro NP, less than a 30-minute drive to the visitor center and even closer to the Tuscon Mountain Range.
Sarah M.GuideBLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Open space, close to Saguaro NP!
I would come back here again! There’s several spots and it’s literally next to Saguaro NP! It was a little muddy, but there were paths around the mud. Very private and nice.
- DDanielleTraveler
Cactus Forest Dispersed
Beautiful camping in the Saguaros
For a girl born in the Midwest, this campground was amazing to wake up to. Saguaros everywhere! Plenty of sites big and small, decent road, fire rings, plenty of privacy.
- JJohn R.Legend
Cactus Forest Dispersed
Beauty and gunfire.
Beautiful desert spot. Lots of gun fire during the day. Fantastic desert sunsets 🌇.
Harriet D.TravelerBLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Muddy!
If you don't have a 4WD vehicle, you may want to look elsewhere. As of writing this, the road is extremely muddy and worn down, so you won't be able to get far in a low-clearance vehicle. I was still able to stop and set up my tent for the night, but it was not a nice spot.
As other people have said, it's behind a closed gate but you're fine to go through. Road condition aside, it is flat and pretty easy to find a level spot for your tent or trailer.
- HHeidi R.Scout
Cactus Forest Dispersed - High Clearance
Beautiful spot
Just off of 1-10. Roads are smooth and woke up feeling like we were in the national park.
- Greg L.Legend
Pipeline Road BLM Camping
Nice BLM free dispersed
Entrance to pipeline road is not marked and difficult to enter and exit safely, about .6 tens mile in from cattleguard on Avra Valley road. Sites are about 1/2 mile in till a big dip wash that restricts most TTs and RVs. Cell is good but adjacent target shooting on State Land is a constant issue
Guide to Marana
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Marana, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning desert landscapes and a variety of camping options, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
Dispersed campers should check out Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
- Located just outside Tucson, the Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area offers easy access to multiple camping spots, making it a convenient choice for those looking to escape the city.
- While the area is popular, some visitors have noted the presence of litter, so it's a good idea to pack out what you bring in to help keep the site clean.
- The site allows campfires and pets, making it a great option for families and those traveling with furry companions.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Marana, Arizona
- When visiting the Cactus Forest Dispersed, be prepared for a lack of facilities; this means bringing your own water and packing out all trash.
- The area is known for its stunning Saguaro cactus forests, so take time to explore the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this desert environment.
- Keep an eye out for wildlife, including coyotes and various bird species, which can often be spotted in the peaceful surroundings of the Cactus Forest.
Beautiful desert landscapes at Ironwood Forest National Monument
- The BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping is a well-reviewed spot that offers a mix of open spaces and scenic views, perfect for those looking to enjoy the tranquility of the desert.
- Visitors have reported that the area is generally clean, thanks to responsible campers who help maintain the beauty of the landscape.
- This location is also close to Saguaro National Park, providing easy access to additional hiking and exploration opportunities in the stunning desert terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Marana, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Marana, AZ is Cactus Forest Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 28 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Marana, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 22 dispersed camping locations near Marana, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.