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•254 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
2. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Fort Mcdowell, Arizona25 Reviews•63 Photos•486 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, Arizona6 Reviews•19 Photos•82 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
4. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Peoria, Arizona5 Reviews•17 Photos•65 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•32 Saves- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
6. Anthem Dispersed Campsite
Anthem, Arizona1 Review•9 Saves- Pets
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
7. Box Bar Road Dispersed
Rio Verde, Arizona3 Reviews•33 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. Hackamore Road Dispersed
Apache Junction, Arizona10 Reviews•8 Photos•77 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
9. Bloody Basin Rd / Agua Fria NM Dispersed Camping
Cordes Junction, Arizona15 Reviews•56 Photos•145 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
10. State land trust/Inspiration Point
Surprise, Arizona3 Reviews•13 Photos•17 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Phoenix
189 Reviews of 53 Phoenix Campgrounds
Chelsey W.
Traveler
Dispersed 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.Scout
Peralta 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.Guide
Dispersed 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.
- Lynnae P.Scout
Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp
Sign "No Mortorized vehicles allowed"
Could not Enter. Closed
Patrick C.GuideBox Bar Road Dispersed
Fun spot
This is a great spot and easy to get to. Lots of shaded areas. You can camp next to your car , wich there might be campers running generators, or you can hike towards the river and set up camp to get away from that. Close to the river with several walk in spots to play in.
- BBrent T.Traveler
State land trust/Inspiration Point
Weekdays are best
State land trust, good spot for a few nights. Gunshots in the distance, but no incidents/casualties lol. Pulled my 31ft TT back into a spot for a week. Close 10 min drive to stores like WinCo and Safeway and gas stations. Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a ohv area but treated as such)
Jacquelyn I.ScoutBox Bar Road Dispersed
Easy Drive In
We don’t have an offroad car, so it is always nice when the gravel road is well managed. No heart aches getting in and finding an open area to camp. I was pleasently surprised at the many little nooks of privacy that you could set up camp. Outhouses are well maintained. Bring your own water though and you do need to pay ahead of time, there are no pay boxes on site.
- ccalScout
Box Bar Road Dispersed
Cat missing here
Beautiful campground up the road from box bar campground with Mountain View’s and cacti.
My blue eyed cat went missing here at 9pm on 4/7. Please email me if you see him.
Mariann M.ScoutOld Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
So far easy to navigate and use pretty rad !
Haven't had the chance to camp at the sites in here. Going to start tonight
- FFreddie F.Scout
Hackamore Road Dispersed
This area and the whole bulldog canyon are are closed for construction
The whole are is closed
- CCelia A.Scout
Catfish Point Picnic and Dispersed Camping Area
I love this place so much
The sign that says no camping is misleading. Someone removed tape. There are many developed campsites and pit toilets that aren’t bad for pit toilets. Some sites are on the river.
- mmike J.Traveler
Sonoran Monument Dispersed Camping
Good overnight stop
Beautiful view, a little close to the interstate but quiet enough to sleep. I will stop here again
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.