Dispersed camping near Salt River, Arizona offers remote desert terrain with elevations ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F while winter nights can drop below 40°F. The Sonoran Desert landscape features saguaro cacti, cholla, and ocotillo plants with rocky, uneven terrain requiring appropriate vehicles for access to most primitive sites.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: McDowell Mountain Regional Park provides extensive trail networks for cyclists of all skill levels. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," shares Marty P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Ghost town exploration: Camp near historic mining sites within a short drive. "Little to close to town for what I was after but great spot for a few days getting supplies what not," notes Charles L. about the proximity of Hackamore Road Dispersed to Goldfield Ghost Town.
Wildlife viewing: The Salt River area hosts diverse desert wildlife and seasonal wild horses. "We saw wild horses, woodpeckers, and heard the distant coyotes carrying on," reports Carol E. after staying at Eagle View RV Resort.
Scorpion hunts: Some parks offer ranger-led night activities. "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts," mentions Jose G. about the educational programs available at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
What campers like
Desert sunrises and sunsets: The open desert landscape creates spectacular sky views. "The sunrise was great too. Clean site and bathrooms," shares Rebeka F. from Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Easy permit acquisition: Some dispersed camping areas require permits obtained through simple processes. "Easy to get a permit from the ranger station. Just email your name, address, phone number and driver's license number to sm.fs.mesa_ohs@usda.gov and you'll get your permit within 2 days for free," explains Whitney W. about Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping.
Spacious campsites: Many established campgrounds offer privacy between sites. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit," notes Julie F. about her stay at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Convenient location: Despite feeling remote, many Salt River area campgrounds provide easy access to urban amenities. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. My site was a pull through...more a side of the road spot," explains Chris P. about accessibility at Usery Mountain.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. "It's a good spot, but the road is atrocious. I nearly ripped off my equalizer system," warns Jeff D. about Hackamore Road Dispersed.
Reservation planning: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "If we could actually get a spot to camp here again it would be nice. Do consider reserving a spot with ample time - they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time," advises Jose G.
Noise considerations: OHV use and proximity to urban areas affect sound levels at some sites. "This place is most used by OHVs so it can get noisy on the weekends. I've also seen spots that people use for shooting," cautions Jose G. about Bulldog Canyon.
Changing regulations: Dispersed camping rules evolve frequently. "The whole area is closed," reported Freddie F. in March 2024 about construction at Hackamore Road, while another reviewer noted, "They also just changed the price from $6 for 6 months to $80 for the year."
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Salt River: Most sites welcome pets with varying facilities. "We have met great people here and enjoy that you can walk or bikeride directly from the RV Park. The park is always clean and well cared for," notes Kloee S. about Eagle View RV Resort.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer kid-friendly recreation areas. "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs," mentions Jules S. about Mesa Gardens RV Park.
Educational programs: Check for ranger-led activities suitable for children. "The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking. The visitor center is worth a look," suggests Christine S. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Heat protection: Desert conditions require extra precautions for children and pets. "It was 90 the day we left (~March 23rd), night temp was cool and windows left open," shares Mark M., highlighting temperature fluctuations even in spring.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose spots based on your specific needs. "We picked this place because it was the cheapest on Passport America($18.50 with discount, $39 full price). Sites come with hookups (50amp only)," explains Laura M. about her stay at Holiday Village.
Hookup options: Verify utility availability before arrival. "This is a nice spot close to home and easy to get to. My spot had water and electric. Nice dump station on the way out too," notes Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Large rig accessibility: Some areas accommodate big rigs better than others. "We have a 40ft school bus and well, if not for the potholes everywhere it's the horrid uneven land," warns Paranormal N. about challenges at Hackamore Road Dispersed.
Seasonal considerations: Prepare for extreme temperatures depending on time of year. "You can camp here when an event is not going on. The camping area is a wide open dirt and gravel lot with 30&50amp power hookups," explains Al G. about WestWorld RV Park, noting the lack of shade in this open environment.
