Best Dispersed Camping near Morristown, AZ
Dispersed camping opportunities near Morristown, Arizona include multiple BLM-managed locations and State Trust lands that accommodate primitive camping without hookups or facilities. Free sites can be found at locations like Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, Ghost Town Road BLM Camping, and several areas along Vulture Mine Road. Many sites offer adequate space for larger rigs, including RVs and trailers, though without the amenities of developed campgrounds. Areas such as North Castle Hot Springs Road Camp and Sophie's Flat Trailhead provide additional dispersed camping zones within driving distance of Morristown.
Most access roads to these primitive sites feature unpaved surfaces with varying conditions that may include washboard sections, deep ruts, and loose gravel. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many areas, particularly after rain when roads can deteriorate rapidly. Most dispersed sites adhere to the standard 14-day stay limit common on public lands. Visitors should note that while fires are generally permitted in established rings, seasonal fire restrictions may apply. These areas lack services such as drinking water, garbage collection, or toilets, though Sophie's Flat Trailhead does provide basic toilet facilities. Campers must arrive self-contained with all necessary supplies including water.
The terrain surrounding these primitive sites features typical Sonoran Desert landscapes with saguaro cacti, desert scrub, and distant mountain views. Wildlife sightings often include wild burros and coyotes, particularly at the Old Airstrip area. Cell service varies significantly by location, with better coverage typically available at higher elevations. Campers should be prepared for occasional off-road vehicle activity, as several areas double as staging points for ATVs. User experiences highlight both challenges and attractions: "Wide open space, an abandoned air strip. Really cool cactus variations all around, you can hear coyotes. And there are wild burros in the area you can def hear them and during the week it's likely you will see them!"
