RV camping near Morenci, Arizona offers mountain elevations ranging from 3,500 to 8,000 feet with significant temperature variations between sites. The region experiences monsoon storms from July through September, creating flash flood risks on forest roads. Most campgrounds in the area require vehicles to navigate steep, winding routes with switchbacks and uneven terrain.
What to do
Explore riparian areas: At Riverview Campground, visitors can access hiking paths along the Gila River. "Bonita creek drive is gorgeous and provides creek water you can get in. Was a beautiful escape and very green post rain," notes Sara, who visited during monsoon season.
Off-road adventures: The terrain around Morenci supports extensive OHV trails connecting remote camping areas. "There is a lot of trails for riding dirt bikes and ATVs," reports Alisa P. about the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area, which features sand dunes popular with motorized recreation enthusiasts.
Soak in thermal waters: The solar-powered hot springs at Hot Well Dunes fill during daylight hours. "The tubs are clean and flow as long as the sun is shining. At night they stop flowing which is a bummer when it's too hot out to get in during the day," explains one visitor who enjoyed the natural hot springs after riding ATVs.
What campers like
Affordable rates: Many campers appreciate the budget-friendly options. "This place is fantastic. It's three dollars a night, you have a picnic table with an awning, grill, and small fire pit and you have access to two small pools filled with hot spring water every morning," writes Abby M. about her stay at Hot Well Dunes.
Secluded camping: Forested sites in the mountains provide quiet retreats. "Heavily wooded, super quiet and secluded. I was able to easily get a 24' class C in and maneuver around," reports a camper about Granville Campground, located at higher elevation for cooler temperatures.
Wildlife viewing: The diverse elevation zones support varied wildlife habitats. "You might be lucky to see deer in the area if you sit still," mentions Tyler C. about Black Jack Campground, adding that "a series of trails pushing up into the ridge line gets you up to a clearing where lightning has given you a view of the surrounding area."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites present navigation challenges. "A little tricky to get to, especially with a trailer as the road is basically a single lane," cautions Justin G. about Riverview Campground's approach route.
Seasonal temperatures: Elevation dramatically affects comfort. "Nice little campground, high enough elevation that it was noticeably cooler than lower elevations," notes a camper about Lower Juan Miller Campground, highlighting the temperature advantage of mountain sites during summer months.
Water availability: Most dispersed sites lack potable water. At Haekel Rd Dispersed Camping, campers must bring all supplies. "There is absolutely nothing at this site to create shade or a wind block. Fortunately we had only light breezes at dawn and dusk," reports Kevin C., emphasizing the exposed nature of this free camping area.
Tips for camping with families
Shade structures: The desert sun can be intense at lower elevations. "Our site was pretty much a gravelly level area. We were just above the dam," notes a camper at Haekel Rd, recommending portable shade for comfort during daylight hours.
Pit toilet availability: Facilities vary widely between sites. Black Jack Campground offers basic amenities: "There was a pit toilet set up, even though the kids didn't want to use it," mentions Tyler C. from his family camping trip.
Activities for children: Some campgrounds offer natural exploration opportunities. "You are right off the road so there is some noise, but it is beautiful," writes Justin about Black Jack Campground, where families can explore hiking trails and gather seasonal berries: "There are a number of manzanita bushes that were ripe when we popped up there."
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many forest campgrounds have tight access roads. "The road in turns to dirt for a brief minute, then back to paved. It winds and there are some tight turns... Wouldn't take anything over 35' 5th wheel," advises Shane W. about Riverview Campground.
Dispersed options: RVers seeking more space find good options at free sites. "Wide open area, gravel road to access camping areas. No designated sites but plenty of flat open areas to stop," explains Chris M. about Haekel Rd, noting it's "Big Rig Friendly."
Utility management: Plan for dry camping at most sites. "No hook ups, no water, just well spaced campsites with picnic tables, fire rings and grills. Very quiet and peaceful, although some road noise, but not distracting at all. Stayed 2 nights in a 20 ft. TT," shares Michael D. about his experience at Black Jack Campground.
