Best Dispersed Camping near Phoenix, AZ
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Phoenix, AZ (53)
1. Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
Anthem, Arizona18 Reviews•27 Photos•260 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
2. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona25 Reviews•63 Photos•490 SavesNO CAMPING First 2 miles and 300 feet on either side of the road/trail VEHICLES MUST STAY ON DESIGNATED ROADS - but past those designated no camping zones, camping is allowed unless otherwise posted.
This space is very large so it may be best to divide it by the access points. The point I'll be using is Access #3- Forest Road (FR) 10, south entrance: This access point is reached from Apache Junction. From Mesa: Travel 15 miles east on the Superstition Freeway (US 60) to the Idaho Street exit. Follow Idaho Street north 4½ miles to McKellips. Turn right on McKellips and travel ½ mile to the Wolverine Pass Road and turn left. Follow it for 7/8 mile and turn right on Tonto Road. Travel north on Tonto Road for ¼ mile to Cactus and turn left. Follow Cactus to McDowell Road and follow it to FR 10 gate.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
3. Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Peoria, Arizona7 Reviews•29 Photos•87 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Peoria, Arizona6 Reviews•25 Photos•71 SavesAnnual permit needed to recreate an AZ State Trust Lands.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
5. Boulders OHV Area
Wittmann, Arizona5 Reviews•9 Photos•37 Saves- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. State land trust/Inspiration Point
Surprise, Arizona5 Reviews•18 Photos•17 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
7. Box Bar Road Dispersed
Rio Verde, Arizona4 Reviews•4 Photos•39 SavesBox Bar is a River Access Point to the Verde River, close to Bartlett Lake in the Cave Creek Ranger District. This small site offers beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains along with a fast moving river – making it a fun spot for kids of all ages. The shore line is a rocky/pebble beach with several shady trees. Wildlife can be seen during the early summer months, and late winter. The road access in to the site is compacted dirt.
There are no designated campsites however the shaded areas along the west side of the parking area are popular spots to set up camp trailers and tents.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Trash
8. Anthem Dispersed Campsite
Anthem, Arizona1 Review•11 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
9. Hackamore Road Dispersed
Apache Junction, Arizona10 Reviews•8 Photos•79 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
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
10. Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Cordes Junction, Arizona15 Reviews•56 Photos•150 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Phoenix
199 Reviews of 53 Phoenix Campgrounds
Michael R.
Scout
Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
Interesting place
Nice location with dispersed camping options. When we were setting up a man came up & warned us that it was a popular spot for Nudists. He was not wrong. Be prepared to run into some interesting people.
- CConner F.
Traveler
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Convenient and beautiful
So thankful for this desert and the solitude it brought. The further off carefree you get, the more solitude you’ll find. It’s been pretty windy (25-30mph gusts) which causes a lot of dust but it’s gorgeous and warm during the day, even in January. Recommend black canyon city for laundry and hiked on the black canyon trail. Shell by this spot is pricey so make sure to get some stuff at Walmart in Anthem or somewhere else, however the shell is super convenient when in a pickle. Tons of stuff within 15-20 minutes such as groceries, shooting ranges, hiking, trails for the ATV/offroaders. I’d definitely visit again and recommend it. Also, great AT&T service, was able to work off hotspot from Tues-Friday with no incidence.
- CConner F.Traveler
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Gorgeous spot but little service
It’s gorgeous. Not very many spots but love being right by the river. With this being said it’s tucked in there by the mountains so it gets colder than desert overnight and has wildlife around plus little to no service for AT&T. However, if I didn’t need service this would’ve been perfect since my dog loves the water.
- JJOSEPHTraveler
Old Corral
Trash, broken glass and human waste
This was an open spot at night, and we needed to park, so we did, and saw the place covered in broken bottles, paint brushes, garbage, and up the hill someone has been using the bathroom all over the grounds and leaving nasty toilet paper all over. The horse pen is full of broken bottles and empty gun casings, you can see that people come up here to trash the place.
- ssteven H.Traveler
Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
Cramped dirt roads
Not a fan. Won’t be back with my trailer.
- PPatrick L.Scout
Dispersed camping near Crown King
Worth the drive
Beautiful camping surrounded by ponderosa pines and boulders. Rich in wildlife.
We were pushing the envelope with a 30 ft camper. Would strongly suggest motorhomes and longer RV's not consider this location. Our family were the only campers during our stay. Lots of activity in and around Crown King. Gas and water available in town. Due to roads, add an hour to any estimated drive time if pulling a trailer.
- GGregg T.
Guide
Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Wide open state land
Yes, I paid the$15 fee and I've been here a couple weeks. People are pretty great. I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun
- GGregg T.Guide
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Kicked us out
From what i gather, some dimbasses were taking pit shots at the free roam cattle...I guess they thought they were not owned. Regardless, we had been there about a week when we were abruptly told to pack up and get out of here. So I did. Liked the spots though.
Greg H.Scout
Peralta Road Dispersed Camping
No dispersed camping or trail riding.
This really ticks me off. One of the more beautiful spots to spend a day has been closed to campers and trail riders. We were shocked to see all access except to the park and trailhead are closed. I agree a few camping spots were over used but that shouldn't have closed the whole area. This is shameful and a government power grab!
Chelsey W.TravelerDispersed Camping off hwy 74
Nice, quiet, friendly site with some trash and glass
The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around. Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December.
William M.Guide
Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
Worth the trip
The road in is a little rough, but ok. Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties. There's no facilities so be prepared. Good level land and plenty of room. Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well. Fantastic views and quiet atmosphere, so far. Been here two nights and plan to stay for at least another week.
Jeremy W.Traveler
Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Very convenient stop between phoenix metro area & Sedona
Dirt road is a bit washboard but very manageable by any vehicle.
Spots line the road to the left & right as you travel down the road. cell Service can be excellent or poor depending on site you choose (avoid the ones in the dips/valleys if its a concern for you)
No facilities, just good ol’ convenient Arizona boondocking.
I came in mid December and there were only a handful of others.
- LLacey W.Scout
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Closed
Coordinates led to a cattle guard that is fenced closed. No access to the site. You could park next to the road though.
- William M.Guide
Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Nice spot
Dirt road in but very drivable. Lots of available places to pull off and camp. Beautiful scenery. In sight of I17 but no sound from it at all. No available shade but my solar set up needs full sun, so it's perfect for me. Will definitely come back
- William M.Guide
Badger Springs
Wouldn't suggest
As soon as I got there, I got the dog out and what do we immediately find? Used drug needles littering the ground around a fire ring. Definitely not somewhere I'd feel comfortable staying the night.
- MMarcela M.Scout
Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Perfect spot
Approachable, very good spot near the highway, also with a camper van.
- GGregg T.Guide
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Spacious
Lots of room all rvs except little ol me, but only for a couple weeks.
Enzo M.Scout
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance
Bulldog Canyon (all entrances) is an OHV Sport area first, Camp spot second
Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID. So OHV owners have nearly zero options. Bulldog Canyon is one those tiny few chances for those OHVers. Campers need to be cognizant of this and respect the OHV'er, not demand OHV'ers respect THEM! If you are looking for a pure silent CAMPground, and are of the "get off my lawn" and or "man/woman shouts at clouds" type, look elsewhere. There are PLENTY of options for such inflexible campers to demand adherence to THEIR level of enjoyment. Bulldog isn't free, OHVers pay for the unlimited access - when allowed that access - to trails WITHOUT time/day/hour exceptions. So if you're a camper, bring some earplugs if the sounds of all-hours OHVers is disturbing to you. Bulldog Canyon is a fantastic area for those campers who enjoy the OHV. I no longer can use an OHV but I enjoy seeing these younger generations doing what mine and earlier gens once took for granted nearly everywhere unrestricted. Highly recommend Bdog Canyon for the fun-lovers and young-at-hearts. For the HOA-loving types, sincerely consider elsewhere for your benefit and those of others.
Mary AnnTraveler
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
My favorite area
Permit required for the gate code. Camping available 2 miles in. Need a 4x4. It's definitely worth the hastle as these spots are beautiful and clean. A lot of OHV so it kicks up dust.
Brian E.ScoutPeralta Road Dispersed Camping
No more camping
The county has closed camping on Peralta road, signs are up, and trenches have been dug so no access is available.
- eedwin H.Scout
Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Dispersed camping not allowed currently
September 21, 2024: We’ve dispersed camped here many times in last three years, took a trip out there today and every dispersed access point is plowed up with very deep trenches not allowing vehicles or rigs to access. Sad affair with squatters taking advantage and leaving trash, there was not a soul in sight. Maybe they’ll reopen it later when it cools down.
- RRalph S.Traveler
Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
Requires permit
Area is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.
Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.
Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂
Tim J.TravelerMaddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
State trust land
No problems except for the people on drugs. Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere.
samuel C.
RangerBloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Noisy
Lots of lit up trucks and dirt bikes coming through the night I stayed but the views and rock formations were cool to check out with my dog.
Caitlin S.GuideDispersed camping near Crown King
Gorgeous secluded camping
Secluded dispersed camping in the woods just outside of the town Crown King. 4x4 is recommended, campsites are not accessible when snowfall has occurred. Beautiful wildlife including deer always nearby.
Jim A.TravelerSaguaro Cove
Remote Camping
Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water. Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. Views are nice and its a nice pack it in, pack it out spot.
- RRobert F.Guide
Sophie's Flat Trailhead
Open area
Nice spot, pretty clean. Pretty easy to get to. There is a dirt road leading up to it. I think most size rigs could make it.
Guide to Phoenix
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Phoenix, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you're sure to find the perfect spot to unwind.
Tips for free and dispersed camping near Phoenix, Arizona
- Always check for permit requirements before heading out, as some areas like Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land require a $15 annual permit for camping.
- Be prepared for limited amenities; many spots, such as Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp, do not offer drinking water, toilets, or trash disposal, so plan accordingly.
- Keep an eye on the weather and pack accordingly, especially in areas like Box Bar Road Dispersed, where temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Dispersed campers should check out Boulders OHV Area
- This location is perfect for those who enjoy off-road adventures, with miles of trails and plenty of space for dispersed camping, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts at Boulders OHV Area.
- Families will appreciate the spaciousness and the availability of picnic tables, which can enhance your camping experience at this well-reviewed site.
- Be mindful of busy weekends, as events can draw larger crowds, but visiting during the off-peak season can provide a more tranquil experience.
Enjoy hiking and exploring while free camping near Phoenix
- The Verde River Dispersed Camping area offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views, making it an ideal spot for those who love to explore nature on foot.
- For a unique experience, consider visiting Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of wildlife, including wild burros and coyotes.
- If you're looking for a quieter spot, Cow Creek Road Dispersed provides ample space and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the serenity of the desert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Phoenix, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Phoenix, AZ is Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Phoenix, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 53 dispersed camping locations near Phoenix, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.