Best Dispersed Camping near Salt River, AZ
Multiple dispersed camping areas surround the Salt River region in Arizona, primarily concentrated in Tonto National Forest and nearby State Trust Lands. Bulldog Canyon offers several access points with the North, South, and West entrances providing different primitive camping opportunities. Additional dispersed sites include Hackamore Road, Box Bar Road, Verde River, Peralta Road, and areas near Saguaro Cove. Most locations require permits, particularly Bulldog Canyon where a $6 permit provides access codes for gated entrances.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout these dispersed areas. Many sites require high-clearance vehicles, with several reviews specifically noting 4x4 is necessary at Bulldog Canyon beyond the first mile. According to one visitor, "It was a fun dirt road. You might be able to get back there without 4x4 but certainly it is strongly recommended." Most areas permit fires when no restrictions are in place, though facilities are minimal to nonexistent. Camping at Bulldog Canyon is allowed for up to 14 days with a valid permit, while other locations may have different stay limits.
The camping experience differs substantially between sites. Areas closer to Phoenix experience significant off-highway vehicle (OHV) traffic, particularly at Bulldog Canyon. A camper noted, "This place is most used by OHVs so it can get noisy on the weekends." Wildlife sightings include coyotes and wild horses at some locations. While most sites lack amenities, campers appreciate the desert landscape and spectacular sunsets. The more accessible camping spots tend to fill quickly, especially on weekends. More remote sites beyond the first mile of entry roads typically offer greater privacy but require appropriate vehicles to access. Cell coverage is generally available with major carriers throughout most areas.
