Andy M.
Legend
LegendDripping Springs Road Camp
Peace and quiet.
Beautiful spot for small rigs.
Dispersed Camping near Mount Lemmon, AZ
Search destinations
Add dates
Mount Bigelow Dispersed provides free camping in the forests near Mount Lemmon with numerous secluded sites accessible via forest service roads. Visitors need 4WD vehicles to reach the more remote spots, especially during winter when roads become icy and snow-covered. A recent visitor noted, "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." Summer campers can escape Tucson's heat with cooler mountain temperatures.
Redington Pass offers another popular dispersed camping area with sites scattered along a rough dirt road. This area features beautiful views of Tucson and Saguaro National Park but requires careful navigation. One camper explained, "The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal." Expect crowds on weekends and significant traffic from 4x4s and dirt bikes during the day. All dispersed campsites are primitive with no facilities, water, or trash service — making them best suited for self-sufficient campers who pack in everything they need. Fire restrictions commonly apply during dry periods, and campers should verify current regulations before visiting.
Best Dispersed Campgrounds near Mount Lemmon (43)
1. Mount Bigelow Dispersed
"Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back"
"Great spots along this road for dispersed camping. Saw some wild life like deer and turkey. Only downside is that the road is narrow so if your pulling anything wide just be cautious."
2. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
"It was easily navigated, even at night. The dirt road in is in pretty good shape. Probably 7/10, but there are a few places after Mile 5 or so where it gets a little rough."
"It’s just past the Tanque Verde Falls trailhead parking lot. Beautiful views and lots of RVs around. Off-road route can be bumpy but worth it. Car camping OK."
3. Sykes Knob
"This is a nice small dispersed camping area not too far from Tucson. Currently it's 95 in Tucson and only 75 here. Tall beautiful trees and lots of birds."
"Got her around 5, no one else to be see. Another group showed up just after sunset and another around midnight. They were able to find spots about a hundred yards away."
4. Cactus Forest Dispersed
"This area is about 30 minutes away from Rilloto for supplies. Picacho Peak State park is 20 minutes away for hiking. Overall, it is a quiet area with beautiful views."
"Classic BLM-style camping, meaning no amenities, dispersed, and pack out all waste. This campground’s name is quite apt; it is indeed a cactus forest, and a beautiful one at that."
5. Reddington Pass Dispersed
"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."
"40 mile scenic drive on a 4x4 road, dispersed camping along the way. Extremely popular view to park off the road in the saguaros."
6. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
"Bureau of Land Management site. 14 day limit. Easy access and we were able to park our 42 ft motor home easily. The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four legged camper!"
"This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge. "
7. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
"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."
8. Golder Ranch Rd. Dispersed
9. Cactus Forest Dispersed Site
"We camped here near “desert hill”, and there was quite a bit of shooting going on. We didn’t mind it and we’re a little bummed we had no idea we could do it there."
"Really nice dispersed camp sites along a dirt road. The directions are accurate and bring you to two dirt roads off of Cattle Tank Road."
10. Mt Lemmon Summit
Drive Time
- 1 hr 14 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs 3 min from Sierra Vista, AZ
- 3 hrs 1 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 4 hrs 5 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Mount Lemmon, AZ
213 Photos of 43 Mount Lemmon Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Sykes Knob
Mount Bigelow DispersedC
Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp
Reddington Pass Dispersed
Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping
Snyder Hill BLM east - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
BLM off of W Valencia Rd | Wild Camping
Cactus Forest Dispersed
BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Mescal Road Dispersed Site
Dispersed Camping Reviews near Mount Lemmon, AZ
266 Reviews of 43 Mount Lemmon Campgrounds
Icy B.
GuideCactus Forest Dispersed
Sweet Spot
This spot is key. Theres no one here probably because its 85 degrees out. Spots everywhere. Cactus and other desert life all over. Minimal trash. I dig it.
Fa B.GuideRagged Top Rd Dispersed
Quiet and so beautiful
Some narrow passages if you have a wider vehicle, and a bit of sand, but otherwise pretty easy to navigate. Beautiful sunset from that vantage point.
- BBrandon R.
TravelerBLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping
Quiet BLM Land with Lots of Space
Peace and quiet. I was the only one dispersed camping as far as the eye could see. Easy place to get to from Tucson. If using Google Maps, you can find Ironwood National Monument (Access Point) for the gate. Once inside the gate you’ll see the BLM signage for camping off to the right. Lots of spots to pull off and camp with some having existing fire rings.
- GGlen B.Legend
Proctor Road Dispersed Camping - Site 3b
Tune up
Great place to get prepared for boo docking/nomad life with plenty of spots. Decent creek, hiking trails,and more conventional recreational things to do nearby.
Autumn R.
ScoutSnyder Hill BLM Camping Area
beautiful desert views, great for a night :)
probably wouldn't want to stay too long here because it's not very secluded, but for being super close to town this is great for a one night stop.
- KKarenGuide
Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area
Synder Hill BLM
This place can be pretty loaded but lots of room. Traffic noise only issue at times.
Yoseline C.GuideMount Bigelow Dispersed
Beat the Heat in Southern AZ!
Lovely site to camp and beat the heat! Decent reception. Make sure to camp ahead of time (before weekend) because it WILL get packed.
Sue B.
RangerBLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Pipeline Rd Dispersed camping
Primitive but nice views
We tent camped here one night when Mt. Lemmon was closed to camping. No bathrooms or picnic tables, but not a bad spot for the night.
Guide to Mount Lemmon
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mount Lemmon, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of stunning landscapes and unique experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Scenic Views and Hiking Trails for Dispersed Campers
- Experience breathtaking vistas at Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping, where you can enjoy cooler temperatures and refreshing breezes while exploring nearby hiking trails.
- The Reddington Pass Dispersed area is known for its off-roading opportunities, making it a perfect spot for adventure seekers looking to explore rugged terrain.
- For those seeking solitude, Mount Bigelow Dispersed offers well-kept, secluded spots with stunning views, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
Wildlife Encounters While Free Camping Near Mount Lemmon
- At Cactus Forest Dispersed Site, campers can enjoy the sights and sounds of desert wildlife, including coyotes and various bird species, enhancing the camping experience.
- The Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed area is known for its diverse ecosystem, providing opportunities to spot unique desert animals in their natural habitat.
- Campers at Cactus Forest Dispersed - High Clearance can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer and desert reptiles, making it a great spot for nature lovers.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Mount Lemmon, Arizona
- Arrive early at Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area to secure a good spot, as this area can get busy, especially on weekends.
- Be prepared for limited amenities at Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp, as there are no toilets or trash services; pack out what you pack in.
- If you're looking for a quieter experience, consider heading further into the Ironwood Forest BLM Aqua Blanca dispersed camp, where you can find more private sites away from the crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping on Mount Lemmon?
Where can I find dispersed camping on Mount Lemmon?
Mount Lemmon offers several dispersed camping opportunities along the Catalina Highway. The Lake - Dispersed Camping is a popular spot for first-time dispersed campers, though some access roads may be overgrown, so watch for the main entrance. Another option is Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping, located near the eastern base of Mount Lemmon. When dispersed camping on Mount Lemmon, look for established pullouts with fire rings. Most dispersed sites are found at lower to mid-elevations on the mountain. Always check current forest regulations before your trip, as seasonal fire restrictions may apply and some areas may be temporarily closed due to weather conditions or forest management.
What is the difference between Mount Lemmon and Mount Bigelow for camping?
What is the difference between Mount Lemmon and Mount Bigelow for camping?
Mount Lemmon and Mount Bigelow offer distinct dispersed camping experiences despite their proximity. Mount Bigelow Dispersed typically has fewer visitors than Mount Lemmon, providing more solitude and less competition for sites. Mount Bigelow, at around 8,500 feet elevation, is slightly lower than Mount Lemmon's 9,159 feet summit. While Mount Lemmon has a mix of developed campgrounds and dispersed areas, Mount Bigelow is primarily known for its dispersed camping options. The road to Mount Bigelow branches off the Catalina Highway and is less traveled, often resulting in more primitive conditions. Cell service is generally better on Mount Lemmon, particularly near the summit areas, whereas coverage on Mount Bigelow can be spotty.
Is free camping allowed on Mount Lemmon?
Is free camping allowed on Mount Lemmon?
Yes, free camping is allowed in designated dispersed areas on Mount Lemmon, though specific regulations apply. Most dispersed camping on Mount Lemmon follows the standard 14-day stay limit common to public lands. For comparison, nearby Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area also offers free dispersed camping with a 14-day limit. When camping for free on Mount Lemmon, you must practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and follow any seasonal fire restrictions. Remember that you'll need to be self-sufficient as there are no services like water, toilets, or trash collection at dispersed sites. Always check with the Coronado National Forest for current regulations before your trip.
Keep Exploring