Patton's Pad offers free dispersed camping on a massive concrete pad measuring approximately 150 by 350 yards, located in the desert near the California-Arizona border. The site maintains historical significance as a former WWII training ground where General George Patton prepared troops for the African campaign. The concrete pad provides stable ground for large vehicles including horse trailers, though campers should arrive prepared with all supplies.
What to do
Desert exploration with horses: Equestrians visiting the Parker area can explore extensive desert terrain surrounding Patton's Pad. "It was really cool to come here and see a part of WWII. There's not much to see, it is all completely flat dessert. It's more of an emotional experience than anything," notes Taylor in their review of Patton's Pad.
Night sky observation: The remote location offers exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. Andrew L. confirms this at Patton's Pad, stating "I enjoyed it because it was just clean and the night sky was clear. Great for stargazing."
Wildlife spotting: Various desert wildlife can be observed during dawn and dusk hours. Brittney C. mentions at Ameri-Can Trails RV Park, "Quiet RV site with tons of cute baby bunnies running all around when the sun starts to go down."
What campers like
Historical connections: The military history throughout the region provides educational value for history enthusiasts. According to M W., "Gen. George Patton trained troops here for the African Campaign back in the 40's. It's a large flat concrete pad that was once part of an air base. No amenities, just a place to park. Interesting history if you research it."
Space and solitude: The expansive desert camping areas provide ample room between sites. Michael S. notes in their review of Patton's Pad, "Beautiful location for sky viewing and photography."
Weather variety: The desert climate offers warm days and cooler nights. Gilbert M. describes Rancho Ventana RV Resort as having "that spring type weather filtered your lungs like nothing You can imagine. And alil bit chilly in the morning to enjoy your warm coffee then the tables flip to enjoy something chilled on ice as the sun warms the day."
What you should know
Remote locations require preparation: Horse campgrounds near Parker, Arizona typically lack nearby services. Regarding Patton's Pad, Andrew L. cautions, "There is absolutely nothing out here. You'll have to bring your own shade. Nearest fuel station is 19 miles away."
Road conditions vary: Access roads to horse-friendly camping areas range from paved to primitive. Michael S. describes Patton's Pad access as "Straight shot access gravel-sand road to the concrete pad. In good shape enough to feel my AWD cargo van could do it."
Noise levels: While generally quiet, some sites experience minimal noise from nearby roads. Tyler D. notes about Patton's Pad, "There's some light noise from the highway but otherwise a decent spot."
Tips for camping with families
Pack all supplies: No stores exist at dispersed equestrian camping sites near Parker. Andrew L. emphasizes this at Patton's Pad: "There is absolutely nothing out here. You'll have to bring your own shade."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy observing desert wildlife. Brittney C. shares about Ameri-Can Trails RV Park, "Quiet RV site with tons of cute baby bunnies running all around when the sun starts to go down."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Desert temperatures can vary significantly between day and night. Gilbert M. describes the temperature pattern as "alil bit chilly in the morning to enjoy your warm coffee then the tables flip to enjoy something chilled on ice as the sun warms the day."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Some established parks near Parker provide full services while dispersed sites offer none. Wesley S. notes about Ameri-Can Trails RV Park, "Full hookup. Gravel road and spaces. They are trying to spruce up the place. Planting shrubs."
Connectivity considerations: Signal strength varies significantly across the region. Warren C. reports, "Very strong Verizon cell signal. Data & streaming over Verizon is far superior to WiFi."
Surface conditions: Most equestrian camping areas feature gravel or hardpack surfaces. Wesley S. describes Ameri-Can Trails RV Park as having "Gravel road and spaces," which provides stable footing for horses and vehicles.
