Best Dispersed Camping near Roosevelt, AZ
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Best Dispersed Sites Near Roosevelt, AZ (71)
1. 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
2. Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
Roosevelt, Arizona6 Reviews•25 Photos•248 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Dispersed
3. Bermuda Flat Recreation Site
Tonto Basin, Arizona4 Reviews•6 Photos•185 SavesBermuda Flat Shoreline Located along the shoreline of central Arizona’s largest lake. This site provides spectacular views of the Sierra Ancha Mountains and Four Peaks Wilderness. The gently sloping shoreline makes this a wonderful water recreation area. There are miles of expansive grassy areas near the shoreline lined with shade-providing mesquite trees.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Trash
- Toilets
4. 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
6. Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88
Tortilla Flat, Arizona3 Reviews•9 Photos•172 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
8. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping
Gold Canyon, Arizona7 Reviews•17 Photos•140 SavesPermits available online via the https://azland.my.salesforce-sites.com/recreationalpermit/
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
10. A-Cross Road Dispersed Camping
Tonto Basin, Arizona1 Review•23 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews in Roosevelt
223 Reviews of 71 Roosevelt 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
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.
- ssteven H.Traveler
Rim Road
Beautiful Escape
We came up from Phoenix to get away from city life for 48 hours and this place is beautiful. We just got here and I have at least some reception because I’m doing the review from the site. Was it easy to get to, right off the highway, we drove back about a mile into the woods and there was tons of places to camp. Granted it’s early January so that could have something to do with all the open spots. There’s no facilities of any kind. We’re totally Boondocking it with our RV no hook ups just the water we brought and a generator, but I couldn’t be happier so quiet.
Oh yeah. If you are checking the weather, it’s closer to Heber than Payson. Payson low tonight expected to be 37, but Heber is expected to get to 24. Brrrrr
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!
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.
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.
- BBobby M.Scout
Rim Road
Great time here
We showed late on Friday eve and were still able to get a great spot for tent camping. Pretty quiet and close to town.
Daniel R.Scout
Mogollon Rimn Dispersed, AZ FR 9350
Mogollon Rim Road, FR9350, Arizona
34.335842 - 110.973221
Numbered free camp sites. First come first served. Beautiful cool high country with many overlooks over the rim. There is a lake near by for fishing, has a small store and you can rent kyaks and small boats.
Camp sites are not near each other, but within sight. Campfires allowed when conditions permit. We stayed 3 nights while on our way home with our new R-Pod 192 Hood River Edition. We will definately go back again. The guy who came buy later to check us in was super nice and very informative.
Patrick C.Guide
forest road 181
Forest road 181
Nice place to cool of and set up camp. The only reason it's not getting 5 stars is there isn't great views in this area.
- Patrick C.Guide
Old Rim Road/ Forest Road 171 Dispersed
Best views and weather
It rained every afternoon we were there for 3 days, but loved every bit of it. There is a camp host here even though it's free. His name is Steve and is super nice and helpful . He told us some spots in the are alto check out. Will stay here again
- David Y.Traveler
Forest Road 195 Campground
Wilderness Camping
pretty secluded and pretty remote. sites are of different sizes, anyone can camp, big trailers etc. very quiet except for nature and birds. no Verizon for the most part, nice place to explore.
- ttroy B.Scout
The Rim
The Rim
Dispersed
- RRaul M.Traveler
Old Rim Road Dispersed Site
Beat the Heat
I wanted to get out of the southern Arizona heat. This place did just that. Only the opposite side of the highway of Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs Lake. Both are just a 15min drive. Plenty of room for big rigs (40’+). I brought my 37’ Motorhome and had no problem finding a big enough site. Sites are marked and plenty spread out from other campers. Great views and perfect summer weather.
Caitlin S.Guide
FR738 Dispersed Camping
Gorgeous camping right on the rim
Along with this site, there are many dispersed camping sites right on the side of the rim with great views that you can see miles out. Great for tent camping but also big enough for campers and RVs
Monte W.
LegendOld Rim Road Dispersed Site
Spread out sites
Just under 50 sites off the dirt road. All sites have fire rings and are numbered. There were fire restrictions during my stay so definitely look into that beforehand, as with any other place. The sites were nicely spread out. The first few sites were along the rim. The others were within forested areas, well off the dirt road.
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.
- SShane W.
Ranger
Picket Post
Quick Night
Good place to pull off in a pinch for free. You do hear road noise. Close to Arizona Trail, where it crosses 60 so you can hike both directions if you decide to, or take the trail up to the top of the mountain. Very beautiful area
- Sarah E.Traveler
White Canyon Wilderness Dispersed
Shooting range
If you can get past the shooting range, it’s very beautiful
- Patrick C.Guide
Box 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.
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.
- MMichael P.Scout
NF-414 Dispersed Site - Tonto NF
Thieves
Nice area been here 3 days left my camp site to go grab supplies everything was stolen ( tent stove table propane tank) stay far away from Payson az 04/23/2024
Guide to Roosevelt
Roosevelt, Arizona, offers a fantastic opportunity for dispersed camping enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in nature. With stunning landscapes and a variety of wildlife, these areas provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Dispersed campers should check out Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt
- This area allows for a truly immersive experience with no permits required, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy the surroundings.
- Campers can enjoy the beautiful desert scenery and the sounds of wildlife, including coyotes, which add to the ambiance of the night.
- With no drinking water or electric hookups available, it's essential to come prepared with all necessary supplies for a comfortable stay at Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt.
Top activities while free camping near Roosevelt
- Hiking and exploring the diverse flora and fauna are popular activities, especially around the Bermuda Flat Recreation Site, where you can enjoy shoreline views and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
- Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Roosevelt Lake, which offers ample opportunities for catching various fish species while camping at EADS Wash.
- For those who enjoy stargazing, the clear desert skies provide a breathtaking view of the stars, particularly at Reynolds Creek Dispersed, where the remote location minimizes light pollution.
Scenic spots for dispersed campers
- The Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88 offer stunning views and a variety of hiking trails, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Campers at Sycamore Creek Recreation Area can enjoy well-spaced sites that provide privacy and easy access to the creek for a refreshing dip.
- The picturesque landscapes at Cherry Creek Rd (NF203) Dispersed Camping Near Roosevelt Lake make it an ideal location for photography and nature walks, with plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Roosevelt, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Roosevelt, AZ is Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance with a 3.8-star rating from 25 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Roosevelt, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 71 dispersed camping locations near Roosevelt, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.