Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Safford, AZ has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Safford is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Arizona camping adventure.
"We stayed in the 1st area for stronger internet & less fuel consumption when we go to town. Diesel prices are stupid right now."
"Wide open area, gravel road to access camping areas. No designated sites but plenty of flat open areas to stop. Hiked to some sort of dam in a dry gulch. Open skies great for star gazing."
"Wildflowers at their peak. a full on superbloom of California poppies amidst cacti greeted us at this BLM spot just southeast of Mt. Graham. "
"This is the first time I've ever stayed on BLM land. I parked at the 3rd spot in midday and stayed all night."
"No trash. Verizon in and out. 4x4 needed to exit. Road is a couple miles, rough, and one shallow water crossing."
"Near Hot Wells with a tub."
"If rocks aren’t your thing, bring an ATV, 4x4, or dirt bike and enjoy miles of trails and dirt roads.
The Rockhound area can be accessed from the Black Hills Scenic Byway or the main access road."
"The only spot big enough has a large bump that would likely tip my travel trailer farther than is safe."
"Loop is close to the main road. 4x4 is required to make the loop."
"Found a beautiful dispersed camping spot beneath the Aspens and Ponderosas on the north side of FR803 about a mile west of the Riggs Flat Lake Campground."
"BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice. "
"Popular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area."
LegendMillions of years ago, volcanic activity in the Southwest create lava rocks and fire agate. Inside the Rockhound area you can walk and collect fire agates right off the surface of the ground. It is the desert equivalent of searching for sea shells at the beach. It makes a fun day trip for families and rock enthusiasts. If rocks aren’t your thing, bring an ATV, 4x4, or dirt bike and enjoy miles of trails and dirt roads.
The Rockhound area can be accessed from the Black Hills Scenic Byway or the main access road. We had no issues finding it using Google Maps. We did take a 4x4 on this trip, but it isn’t necessary. Any vehicle that can handle a few miles of primitive/gravel road should be fine.
If you’re adventurous enough, spend the night in one of the dispersed camping sites. Just be prepared. There are no facilities or water available. The site only has a sign, a log book and a small trash can. The area is very rocky and I don’t recommend tent camping, but it would be feasible with some raking. There were 3 other groups camping while we were there and they were all sleeping in some type of camping vehicle. There aren’t any trees, so we experienced lots of high wind gusts. As a precaution, We took our awning down in the middle of the night, but our roof top tent was fine. Although this area is remote, you can see the lights from Safford,AZ at night. We didn’t have a fire, but they are permitted (as long as there isn’t a fire ban in effect). Some of the sites had camper-made fire rings/pits dug into the ground and surrounded by rocks.
LegendWildflowers at their peak. a full on superbloom of California poppies amidst cacti greeted us at this BLM spot just southeast of Mt. Graham. Lots of places to pull over for a night or for a week or two along Tanque Road, and almost no road noise since the highway is far enough away. Tanque Road is dirt but was doable for our vintage trailer for the first mile or so, but we've heard it gets sandy and harder to navigate the further in you get.
Well-positioned in between the Coronado National Forest and the Hot Well Dunes area. No services, no water, no toilets, just beautiful open desert. Come prepared with drinking water and please Leave No Trace.
Closest town is Safford, AZ about 30 minutes away, and has all that you need.
LegendThis site is relatively easy to get to, considering how remote and alone and quiet it feels once here. We found a nice spot at 32.2437301, -109.5120963 in our 26 ft class C. Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful.
BLM ranger and other law enforcement drove up the road about once per day, which was nice.
Drive through Bowie to get to Apache Pass Rd then a left on Happy Camp Canyon dirt road which is wide and flat but washboarded. Once you get to the recreation area, there is a picnic spot with tables and toilet but no camping is allowed in that area, you'll have to keep driving a bit further. There were a lot of campers when we stayed but we found a nice spot right off the dirt road with amazing views. Heard some gun shooting going on the first day but none following that. There are open range cattle roaming around so give them space and keep your animals leashed. On a hike one was walking right up to us so be aware.There were times on our hikes where you turn a corner and there are a few just standing there. The brush is high enough to hide some too so keep an eye out. This is BLM so the camping is FREE there is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers.
Good place to hike, scramble up the rocks or mountain bike.
Good verizon and AT&T reception.
ScoutPlaya Dispersed Campsite is a unique and serene camping area located on the expansive alkali flats of the Black Rock Desert in northwestern Nevada. Known for its otherworldly landscape, this remote site offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking solitude, vast horizons, and stunning sunsets. The flat, cracked playa surface stretches endlessly in all directions, creating a sense of open freedom that’s hard to find elsewhere. Camping here is truly off-grid— there are no amenities, no marked spots, and no shade— just you, the wind, and the desert sky. color rush
GuideSo if you are into rocks this really is a great place to check out. Be prepared as the drive in is difficult and long. Larger RVs are not recommended as the road has many steep washouts and ruts. The main dirt road leading into the area has bad washboard bumps. There is also an active cattle ranch in the area so be careful with any pets. You’ll find a logbook on the way in. Once there you’ll find plenty of places to park but don’t count on it being level. There are also lots of sharp rocks so watch your tires. There are no facilities here. The views are amazing especially at night. The wind never did stop. You got to really like rocks!
GuidePopular boondocking site 8 miles south of I-10 ar Bowie. Easy to find, level dirt road with only a bit of washboard in places. Pit toiletat the day use area. Beautiful views of the giant bolders that are prevalent in this area. There were 12-15 RVs of all types spread out widely along a single dirt road. I had 3 solid bars of AT&T. Very quiet at night. There is no light pollution so stargazing would have been awesome if not for the waxing moon. Enjoyed hiking around the area. Be careful as some of the cactus will scratch you badly if you're not careful. Only con was there was no toilet paper in the pit toilet. Recommend!
GuideNice Spot. Easy to find, and easy to find a spot. Big Rig friendly in the 1st area. Gets a little tighter the further down you go like most places. We stayed in the 1st area for stronger internet & less fuel consumption when we go to town. Diesel prices are stupid right now. We found a nice level unobstructed spot looking out at the snow capped peaks of Mt. Graham. Verizon via Visible 2-3 bars. ATT via Straight Talk 3-4. Haven't tried OTA channels. 4 Rigs in the 1st area, about a football field apart. Some overnighters, but most we talked to here 7-14 days. Minimal trash, but some. Pretty quiet and only about 8m to town, but it feels more remote. Free dump station at the Water Reclamation Plant in Safford, just sign in, dump, sign out. They also have water to rinse, not potable. Cute diner in town called Jerry's. Good burgers at JD's sports bar (loud though). Great RV repair shop (Trek RV) squeezed us in for a Furnace motor issue. This one gets added to the Will RETURN list.
GuideNot to far from highway. Road is good for all vehicles except maybe the last few spots which need a 4x4 and high clearance. Only a few spots for bigger rigs though. Nice views of the mountains. There is 1 vault toilet.
GuideNice BLM camping location. Happy Camp Road is well maintained. Although it is a dirt road I’ve towed my trailer on much worse. Hiking is plentiful. I didn’t drive too far away from entrance as it seemed a little dicey for my trailer. Near the entrance there is about 5 or 6 spots that would work for larger rigs. I took one star off for the flies. I guess they can’t be helped since this is free range BLM.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Safford, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of scenic spots perfect for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year for dispersed camping on Mt. Graham?
Spring is spectacular for dispersed camping near Mt. Graham, particularly at Black Hills Rockhound, where you can enjoy moderate temperatures while searching for fire agates. Late March through April brings stunning wildflower displays, with a superbloom of California poppies often visible at Round Mountain Rockhound Area. Fall (September-November) offers pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Summer can be extremely hot at lower elevations, while winter brings cooler temperatures and possible snow at higher elevations. Regardless of season, the area's desert climate means dramatic temperature shifts between day and night, so pack accordingly.
What permits are required for dispersed camping on Mt. Graham?
Most dispersed camping areas around Mt. Graham are on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land and typically don't require specific permits for short-term camping. At Happy Camp Trail, you can camp without permits, though it's advisable to check in with BLM rangers who occasionally patrol the area. Similarly, at Indian Bread Rocks, no special permits are needed for standard dispersed camping. However, always adhere to the 14-day stay limit that applies to most BLM lands. For rockhounding activities at certain sites, special permits might be required. Always check the latest regulations with the Safford BLM office before your trip as requirements can change.
Where can I find dispersed camping on Mt. Graham near Safford, Arizona?
For dispersed camping near Mt. Graham and Safford, the Tanque Road Dispersed Camping Near Safford is an excellent option. Located just southeast of Mt. Graham, this BLM land offers numerous pull-off spots perfect for overnight stays or longer visits. The road is far enough from the highway to minimize noise, creating a peaceful camping experience. Another option is Haekel Rd Dispersed Camping, which is easy to find and accommodates big rigs in the first area, though it gets tighter further down the road. Both areas provide beautiful desert landscapes and mountain views, making them ideal bases for exploring Mt. Graham.
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