Primitive camping near Salome, Arizona occurs primarily on rocky desert terrain with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 2,500 feet. Winter temperatures typically fall to the 30s at night while climbing to the 70s during daylight hours. The area experiences significant seasonal population fluctuations as winter visitors seek relief from northern climates between October and March.
What to do
Rock collecting opportunities: Several campsites near Salome offer rockhounding possibilities. At Ramsey Mine Rd BLM Dispersed Camping, one camper noted, "There is open BLM land all around to explore and look for rocks. Some chollas out in those areas so watch your legs and your dogs." The area contains interesting mineral deposits from abandoned mining operations.
Hiking at Saddle Mountain BLM: This accessible recreation area provides moderate to difficult hiking trails. "Saddle Mountain is fun to hike but strenuous. The area is quiet and easy to get to," reports a visitor. The mountain rises prominently from the desert floor and offers substantial elevation gain for those seeking physical activity.
Mountain biking on desert tracks: Many dispersed camping areas feature informal riding routes. At Plomosa Rd Quinn Pass BLM, campers report "endless bike riding trails and very little traffic on Plomosa so riding on it works too." The terrain consists primarily of hard-packed dirt roads with occasional rocky sections requiring basic off-road cycling skills.
What campers like
Stargazing conditions: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky visibility. A camper at Vicksburg Pit Rd BLM shared, "Far enough away from the road makes it quiet. Plenty of dirt roads for us to ride our bikes." The dark skies allow for detailed Milky Way viewing without specialized equipment.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping locations, most sites near Salome maintain functional connectivity. One reviewer at Ramsey Mine Rd BLM / Dispersed Camping stated, "Good AT&T and Verizon service here. No amenities. Pack in / pack out." Service quality varies by location and carrier but remains usable for basic communications.
Seasonal social opportunities: Winter months bring temporary communities to several BLM locations. A camper at Plamosa BLM Dispersed Camping Area observed, "This is the place to come if you want to make community with other nomads." Informal gatherings, information sharing, and group activities occur regularly between December and March.
What you should know
Water access limitations: No dispersed sites provide potable water. According to one visitor at Ramsey Mine Rd BLM Dispersed Camping, "There is only one store nearby and it has the highest prices I have ever seen. They have a good selection but you will not like paying that much." Most campers fill water containers in nearby towns.
Road condition variability: Access roads deteriorate significantly during and after rain events. A camper reported, "The dirt road leading in is very easy to drive on. There are many stone campfire rings. Cactus and shrubs all around." However, conditions change seasonally and after precipitation.
Wildlife considerations: The desert ecosystem contains various species requiring awareness. "We felt safe and secluded. Winter over worries animal wise was solely coyotes. Never saw a rattle snake or scorpion," noted one camper. Nocturnal wildlife activity increases significantly after sunset, with coyotes commonly heard near camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for shade: Limited natural shade makes positioning critical. At Saddle Mountain BLM, a visitor recommended, "You can see about 20 miles of I-10 from this area. Power substation have bright lights on all night but I would camp there again." Morning shade availability depends on proximity to mountains or larger vegetation.
Thorny vegetation hazards: Desert plants present specific risks to children and pets. One reviewer warned about "some chollas out in those areas so watch your legs and your dogs." Carrying tweezers or pliers helps remove cactus spines which readily attach to clothing, shoes and skin.
Trash management planning: With no waste services, families must prepare accordingly. A visitor to Hi Jolly BLM Dispersed Camping Area observed, "The vibe here is chill and respectful—campers keep the area clean." Teaching children about pack-in/pack-out principles helps maintain site conditions.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most sites require some adjustment for comfortable parking. "Ground is very rocky with mostly firmly packed small rocks and dirt with some bigger sharp rocks as well. Spaces are large and flat and likely accessible to any type and size rig," noted a camper at Ramsey Mine Rd BLM.
Solitude optimization: Strategic site selection affects privacy levels. One RVer at Plomosa Rd noted, "Plenty of room, easy to access with our 42' fifth wheel. Close enough to 95 to be convenient but far enough away to have nice star viewing and no noise from the freeway." Choosing sites further from main access points generally increases separation from other campers.
Wind protection considerations: Desert winds affect larger vehicles significantly. "Very easy area to get to. You get off the highway and are on a paved/well maintained gravel road until you get to a site. Once you get off the paved road, you can pretty much pull off wherever you want," shared one reviewer. Positioning RVs with the smallest profile facing prevailing winds reduces rocking and awning damage.
