Top Free Dispersed Camping near Scottsdale, AZ

Want to go dispersed camping near Scottsdale? Find everything from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Arizona camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Scottsdale, AZ (55)

    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance
    Camper-submitted photo from Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    25 Reviews
    63 Photos
    482 Saves

    NO 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
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area

    2. Great BLM Camping and Staging Area

    17 Reviews
    17 Photos
    250 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • No image available

      3. Box Bar Road Dispersed

      3 Reviews
      31 Saves

      Box Bar is a River Access Point to the Verde River, close to Bartlett Lake in the Cave Creek Ranger District. This small site offers beautiful scenery of the surrounding mountains along with a fast moving river – making it a fun spot for kids of all ages. The shore line is a rocky/pebble beach with several shady trees. Wildlife can be seen during the early summer months, and late winter. The road access in to the site is compacted dirt.

      There are no designated campsites however the shaded areas along the west side of the parking area are popular spots to set up camp trailers and tents.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • Dispersed
      • Trash
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Hackamore Road Dispersed

      4. Hackamore Road Dispersed

      10 Reviews
      8 Photos
      77 Saves

      Camping 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
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Equestrian
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

      5. Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

      5 Reviews
      15 Photos
      77 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land
      Camper-submitted photo from Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land

      6. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land

      4 Reviews
      16 Photos
      60 Saves

      Annual permit needed to recreate an AZ State Trust Lands.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • ADA Access
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona
      Camper-submitted photo from Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona

      7. Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona

      5 Reviews
      19 Photos
      160 Saves

      This is for SHEEPS Bridge BLM in Arizona There is a different listing on The Dyrt for SHEEP Bridge BLM in Utah VERY rugged road to get to this campground. Please be advised if you have an RV or a low clearance vehicle.

      • Pets
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Equestrian
      • Tent Cabin
      • Picnic Table
      Camper-submitted photo from Mesquite Wash Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Mesquite Wash Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Mesquite Wash Dispersed

      8. Mesquite Wash Dispersed

      3 Reviews
      3 Photos
      135 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Equestrian
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Verde River Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Verde River Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Verde River Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
      Camper-submitted photo from Sycamore Creek Recreation Area
    Showing results 1-10 of 55 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Scottsdale

    186 Reviews of 55 Scottsdale Campgrounds


    • e
      Camper-submitted photo from Peralta Canyon / Gold Canyon Dispersed Camping - PERMANENTLY CLOSED
      Sep. 22, 2024

      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.

    • RThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed Camping off hwy 74
      Aug. 24, 2024

      Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

      Requires permit

      Area is marked and needs permit as well. As a foreigner I can't buy the permit online since only US address can be entered and will be reverted for the credit card payment so no way to stay there legally.

      Maybe going in person or call them can get me a permit but yeah not this way.

      Anyway the spot is nice and levelled if it would be usable 🙂

    • Caitlin S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed camping near Crown King
      Jun. 17, 2024

      Dispersed camping near Crown King

      Gorgeous secluded camping

      Secluded dispersed camping in the woods just outside of the town Crown King. 4x4 is recommended, campsites are not accessible when snowfall has occurred. Beautiful wildlife including deer always nearby.

    • Jim A.
      Camper-submitted photo from Saguaro Cove
      Jun. 13, 2024

      Saguaro 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.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Picket Post
      May. 22, 2024

      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

    • Patrick C.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Box Bar Road Dispersed
      May. 1, 2024

      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.

    • B
      Camper-submitted photo from State land trust/Inspiration Point
      Apr. 29, 2024

      State land trust/Inspiration Point

      Weekdays are best

      State land trust, good spot for a few nights. Gunshots in the distance, but no incidents/casualties lol. Pulled my 31ft TT back into a spot for a week. Close 10 min drive to stores like WinCo and Safeway and gas stations. Quite weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a ohv area but treated as such)

    • Jacquelyn I.
      Camper-submitted photo from Box Bar Road Dispersed
      Apr. 27, 2024

      Box 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.

    • Makayla Z.
      Camper-submitted photo from Great BLM Camping and Staging Area
      Mar. 17, 2024

      Great BLM Camping and Staging Area

      Like something out of a Western film

      We pulled in late at about 10pm. Wild burros and coyotes set the soundtrack and the cactus shadows looked against the bright night clouds. Absolutely worth the drive! We car camped and the weather was perfect and we slept great. We will definitely be back soon so we can actually pick a site and enjoy it!

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from FR414 Dispersed Camp Site
      Mar. 11, 2024

      FR414 Dispersed Camp Site

      Dispersed camping near Rye Arizona

      It was a nice place to pull out for one or two nights. Beautiful view of the Mazatzal Mountains ⛰️ and a few places to take the ORV. Don’t drive in if it’s raining! We pulled a 30 foot toy hauler in to our spot. The further you go the less you hear the traffic - not bad where we parked.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed
      Mar. 10, 2024

      Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed

      Enjoyed tent camping

      I’ve never been out here. Got a state land trust family pass for the area just in case we needed it. The cottonwood canyon rd is dirt/gravel and it is very flat and not washboarded. Cars can drive in. Just be aware that many of the pull offs from the road have dips or hills but there are also plenty of flat pull offs that lower ground clearance vehicles can pass. For tent camping finding a spot without a lot of sharp rocks and prickles from the various cacti can be a little challenging but it’s totally doable. Use caution when walking about between the cacti. Lots of prickles you can’t see well on the ground. Be extra careful if you have dogs. Probably want to have tweezers or pliers with you to remove the spines. We came out when it was covered in grass but I can imagine it might get pretty dusty if there isn’t any grass. There’s basically no shade to speak of but plenty of bushes/cacti etc for privacy. Very easy to find spots away from other campers on the weekend. There’s lots of gunfire and explosions in the distance during the day and at night. Many ATVs/OHVs driving up and down the main road at night. It got pretty much silent at about 11pm. There are probably a lot of places a decent way from the main road that may be quieter but there are no signs anywhere so you just kind of have to pull off and drive around. Camp was raided by quail early in the morning and we had some cows visit but they didn’t come too close. All in all pretty cool area will definitely come back



    Guide to Scottsdale

    Camping near Scottsdale, AZ, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails around the area. Campers at Usery Mountain Regional Park rave about the mountain bike trails, with one reviewer saying, "There are mountain bike trails connected to this campground that were very fun!"
    • Off-Roading: For those who love a thrill, Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is a great spot. One visitor described it as "Off-Roading Nirvana," highlighting the exciting rides through stunning desert landscapes.
    • Fishing and Water Sports: If you're into water activities, Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground is perfect. A reviewer mentioned, "The views from my spot were pretty epic," while enjoying fishing off the shoreline.

    What campers like:

    • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking scenery. One visitor at Houston Mesa Campground said, "The abundance of trees creates a peaceful and shady environment, perfect for escaping the Arizona sun."
    • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds, like McDowell Mountain Regional Park, are praised for their cleanliness. A camper noted, "The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful."
    • Spacious Campsites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at places like Burnt Corral Campground. One reviewer mentioned, "Plenty of spots near the water," making it a great choice for those who enjoy a little space.

    What you should know:

    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park, lack showers and have basic facilities. A visitor pointed out, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
    • Seasonal Access: Certain campgrounds, such as Tortilla Campground, are only open from October to March. A camper noted, "Beautiful surroundings and a great value," but be mindful of the seasonal restrictions.
    • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, especially at places like Houston Mesa Campground. One camper shared, "Deer in campground in trees! The bathrooms are immaculate!"

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby hiking trails and swimming holes. At Houston Mesa Campground, one family enjoyed the "endless opportunities for exploration and adventure."
    • Safety First: Ensure your campsite is safe for kids. A reviewer at Usery Mountain Regional Park mentioned, "It was nice to use the electric outlets to charge our devices," which can be handy for keeping devices charged.
    • Plan for Comfort: Choose campgrounds with clean facilities. Campers at McDowell Mountain Regional Park appreciated the "clean restrooms, and fire pits."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Hookups: Make sure the campground has the right hookups for your RV. Campers at Lake Pleasant Regional Park noted, "Water and electric," which is essential for a comfortable stay.
    • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be close together. A visitor at Burnt Corral Campground mentioned, "Some sites were very overgrown," so choose wisely for privacy.
    • Explore Off-Roading Options: If you have an ATV, campgrounds like Lost Dutchman State Park are ideal. One camper said, "Those are buzzing around all over the place going to and coming from off-roading trails."

    Camping in Scottsdale, AZ, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options to suit every camper's needs.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Scottsdale, AZ?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Scottsdale, 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 Scottsdale, AZ?

      TheDyrt.com has all 55 dispersed camping locations near Scottsdale, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.