Best Dispersed Camping near Rio Verde, AZ
Looking for dispersed camping near Rio Verde? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Arizona excursion.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Rio Verde, Arizona (74)
1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
26 Reviews•64 Photos•492 SavesFort Mcdowell, ArizonaNO 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. Must have a permit.
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
$10 - $80 / night
2. Box Bar Road Dispersed
4 Reviews•4 Photos•44 SavesRio Verde, ArizonaBox 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
3. Hackamore Road Dispersed
10 Reviews•8 Photos•81 SavesApache Junction, ArizonaCamping 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
4. Bartlett Reservoir
4 Reviews•23 Photos•188 SavesRio Verde, ArizonaThe Bartlett Reservoir area is noted for the spectacular vistas of the Desert Mountains and the Sonoran plant life. A fair portion of the west side of the reservoir is devoted to camping and picnicking. Bartlett has been a favorite with anglers since Bartlett Dam was constructed in 1939. Several state-record fish have been caught there. The 1977 Small-mouth Bass state record tipped the scales at seven pounds. The carp state record still stands at 37 lbs. 5 oz. Flathead Catfish lurk in the depths. “Fish City” near Bartlett Flat is a fish-habitat improvement project.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Dispersed
- Market
5. Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
4 Reviews•10 Photos•100 SavesTonto Basin, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area
18 Reviews•27 Photos•266 SavesAnthem, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
7. Mesquite Wash Dispersed
3 Reviews•3 Photos•134 SavesRio Verde, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance
5 Reviews•5 Photos•41 SavesApache Junction, Arizona- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
9. Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
5 Reviews•19 Photos•165 SavesCarefree, ArizonaThis is for SHEEPS Bridge BLM in Arizona There is a different listing on The Dyrt for SHEEP Bridge BLM in Utah
VERY rugged road to get to this campground. Please be advised if you have an RV or a low clearance vehicle.
- Pets
- Dispersed
- Picnic Table
10. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
7 Reviews•42 Photos•76 SavesPeoria, ArizonaAnnual permit needed to recreate an AZ State Trust Lands.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews near Rio Verde, Arizona
242 Reviews of 74 Rio Verde Campgrounds
Kevin C.
Ranger
Bumble Bee Dispersed
Not an Ideal Camping Venue
Arrived on a Monday afternoon and found no other campers but several trucks and OHV trailers parking on the road to the camping area. Made it around them to have my pick of camp sites.
The road goes past the camping area. There are presumably more camping areas down the hill.
The main camping area it the top of a hill where someone cleared all vegetation. Nothing to stop the wind.
There were few level areas. Camping here requires some serious leveling skills.
There is lots of room for longer trailers . HOWEVER, I COULD NOT RECOMMEND IT! This would be an excellent place for R/C jeeps and motorcycles.
The OHV jockeys seemed OK. They did seen somewhat surprised that someone was camping.
Overall the campsite was just a very remote,hilly and sterile dirt parking lot. Lots of garbage, mostly drink containers and tissue paper.
The one good thing was after dark, there was nobody for miles.
- mmatt F.
Traveler
Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
Beautiful, price just went up to $80 a year for a pass. but have to camp 2 miles down a ohv
Our first night we campednat the 2nd or 3rd campsite which wasn't too difficult to get to. Big rocks and ruts but no biggie. The next morning we woke up to a forest ranger saying we had to camp 2 miles from the road. We took our 30 foot camper the 2 miles and boy was it insane off roading for a travel trailer! Dont recommend it as my tire exploded a week later probably from the abuse. The 2 miles rule seems like it is a new rule and they say it's to stop erosion but it seems to stop campers. Because there's only 2 camp spots past 2 miles deep but tons of other awesome campsites on the way. They also just changed the price from $6 for 6 monthes to $80 for the year
Starseed P.
Legend
Lake Pleasant Dispersed Camp
Perfect for winter base
Stayed here for the past 2 years overwinter. 6 months, $15 pass, 36 foot skoolie with zero issues. Close to everything you need as a boon docker/nomad.
- Starseed P.Legend
Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
Wide open desert land
Parked here last two years, 6 months at at time over winter. Quiet, spacious, close to water, stores, lake pleasant. If you drive to the back, off new river road, you can find less people and traffic.
- 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.
GuideMaddock 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.Guide
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.
- TTeresa A.Guide
Little Green Valley - NF405A Dispersed
Overnight stop
We stopped overnight traveling from the Phoenix area to Canyon DeChelly. Great spot. Quiet. Clean. A few other campers but we didn’t notice them.
- 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.
- 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 AnnTravelerBulldog 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.
Cas M.Traveler
Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
Coyotes!
Beautiful desert camping, lots of birds and wildlife. I heard coyotes in the middle of the night that woke me up, and was glad for a rooftop tent.
- 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 🙂
Guide to Rio Verde
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Rio Verde, Arizona, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, campers can enjoy the serene landscapes and outdoor activities that this region has to offer.
Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Rio Verde, Arizona
- Always check for any required permits before heading to areas like Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance, as some locations may have specific regulations.
- Be prepared for rough roads; for instance, accessing Hackamore Road Dispersed may require a vehicle with high clearance due to challenging terrain.
- Pack out what you pack in; maintaining cleanliness is crucial, especially in popular spots like Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88, where litter can lead to stricter regulations.
Scenic Views and Activities for Dispersed Campers
- Experience breathtaking mountain views at Bartlett Reservoir, where you can set up camp right by the water and enjoy fishing or kayaking.
- Explore the numerous hiking trails available near Sycamore Creek Recreation Area, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
- For off-road enthusiasts, Horse Trails Boondock offers access to trails that are ideal for horseback riding and ATV adventures.
Essential Considerations for Dispersed Camping Near Rio Verde
- Be aware that some areas, like Mesquite Wash Dispersed, may have rough access roads that require a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
- Check for local wildlife and be cautious of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas like Catfish Point Picnic and Dispersed Camping Area, where encounters with animals can occur.
- Ensure you have adequate supplies, as amenities are limited in places like Verde River Dispersed Camping, which lacks facilities like restrooms and trash disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Rio Verde, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Rio Verde, AZ is Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance with a 3.7-star rating from 26 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Rio Verde, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 74 dispersed camping locations near Rio Verde, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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