Top Free Dispersed Camping near Sierra Vista, AZ
Planning a dispersed camping trip near Sierra Vista? Dispersed camping is the perfect way to get off the grid. Search nearby dispersed campgrounds or find top-rated spots from other campers.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Sierra Vista, AZ (39)
1. Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
14 Reviews•35 Photos•162 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
2. Dragoon Mountains
10 Reviews•21 Photos•150 SavesPart of the Douglas Ranger District
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Alcohol
3. Juniper Flats Dispersed
7 Reviews•13 Photos•84 SavesCamping 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
- Standard (Tent/RV)
4. Harshaw Road Dispersed Camping - San Rafael Canyon
6 Reviews•18 Photos•152 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
5. Ash Canyon Road Dispersed
2 Reviews•2 Photos•19 SavesYou may camp outside of developed areas across most of the Coronado National Forest at no charge. We recommend that you stop in to one of our five ranger stations to pick up a free travel management map so that you are aware where vehicles are and are not permitted. Potable water, restrooms, and other amenities are not available at dispersed sites. If you choose to camp outside developed areas, be sure to bring adequate water or be prepared to purify any water source before drinking. No permits are required to camp in wilderness areas. The Coronado National Forest has a 14-day stay limit on all camping. Areas designated as “Day Use Only” are limited to posted hours, no overnight use.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Alcohol
6. Road Canyon Camping Area
3 Reviews•13 Photos•22 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
7. Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest
1 Review•10 Photos•5 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
- Group
8. Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping
4 Reviews•6 Photos•30 SavesPrimitive camping
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Dispersed
- Firewood Available
- Alcohol
9. Miller Backcountry Camp
1 Review•7 SavesThe Hereford Trailhead provides access to the San Pedro Trail to the San Pedro House along Highway 90 to the north, approximately 9.5 miles away, and to Waters Road to the south, approximately 3.5 miles. The Hereford trailhead includes improved parking, a picnic shelter and tables, and a toilet. The trail is available for non-motorized travel, including hiking, bicycling and equestrian riding. The trail to the north crosses under the Hereford Road Bridge, and follows a historic road along the scenic San Pedro River valley, and passes several historic farm fields that are now turning into sacaton grassland and mesquite bosque. The trail passes by the Miller Backcountry Camp approximately 6 miles north of Hereford. The camp has is primitive, with tent pads, fireplaces, and a toilet. The trail south also follows the river valley, and crosses historic farm fields also revegetating to native plant communities. The trail passes by an artesian about a mile south of the trailhead, where an aquatic habitat refugia is maintained.
- Fires
- Tents
- Dispersed
- Toilets
Showing results 1-10 of 39 campgrounds
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Sierra Vista
66 Reviews of 39 Sierra Vista Campgrounds
- Joan D.
TravelerAZT/ Parker Trailhead Dispersed
Not really a Campsite
We stayed here in late August to hike the AZ Trail, but it isn't really a campsite. We set up a tiny tent in the tall grass, but there isn't a designated place to set-up camp, fire pit, etc. Also, it might get busy with cars during the more popular hiking seasons because it is a starting point for both passage 1 and 2 of the Arizona Trail. That being said, it worked for us for one night. It had a nice view of the lake.
Cass G.
Guide
Scotia Canyon - Coronado National Forest
One on my favorites
This is site is always a fun time, i’ve been camping along this dirt road so many times and now make it a yearly visit. All of these photos are different years. For greener grass I recommend going any month before late August! All photos taken with dry grass is October various years. Tons of dispersed camping sites and pull offs along the dirt road once you pass Parker Canyon Lake area. Good hiking in the area, tons of wildlife. Watch out for rattlesnakes and javelina especially if you have dogs with you! Most of the sites have fire rings already established so you don’t have to do much work. I’d rate it 11/10!
- S
Shane W.
Ranger
Gardner Canyon Rd Dispersed
Pretty Area, no amenities
Great area of you plan to have everything with you. There is a ranch up the road along the way to the end of the road towards the top. Great place to hang out and enjoy the quiet. Take a drive up the road. Onyx Cave isn’t far.
Julie F.Guide
Dragoon Mountains
Lots of sites, beautiful and peaceful
Off of main road, it’s about 10 miles + of washboard. A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow. Lots of sites available, also very popular. Beautiful dragoon mountains. Stayed about 1 miles after the Slavin Gulch hike (great hike). Was here thanksgiving weekend (Nov 2023)
- TTarryn T.Traveler
Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
Felt like camping on desert safari
Moderately rough road out for non 4x4 vehicle road, but fine going slow. Good spots off the road, fairly private and not too many other campers nearby. Lots of animals nearby very loud waking up and ants on the ground, we were glad we were in a roof tent not on the ground.
Jake G.TravelerGardner Canyon Rd Dispersed
Convenient and scenic
There are lots of sites along Gardner Canyon road, and it can get a little busy. We had a site by a large tree and a wash. The first time cows were our only visitors, but on another trip there was a camper 100 yards away or so. Some of the sites are quite large and are able to fit several large rigs. Depending on the time of year there are some small water crossings passed the ranch. Overall a great place to camp.
- CChasity M.Guide
Tombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
Peaceful and Quiet
Take Middle March road on left off of highway 80. Campsite is 10 miles on the left. The first .5 miles is paved, the other 9.5 miles is primitive (embedded rock, loose gravel, and about 75%washboard). You’ll cross a few cattle guards and dry river beds. Plenty of camping spots with fire rings.
joel G.Guide
Proctor Rd. Dispersed by Madera Canyon
Elephant head trail head
We Camped here for two nights with a nice view of elephant head. It is an open range so there are cows walking around. There are quite a few camping spots but had all of them filled by the time we made camp on Friday afternoon. One of the really downsides was we had two skunks walk through our site early Saturday morning and one did spray our 10 months old puppy.
- MMichael R.
Scout
Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
La Cienaguita
I first came upon this area three years ago and have come back every year since. It is isolated, camp sites are well spaced and the scenery is great. There is no highway noise and the night time stars are brilliant. It is free range for cattle so you may wake up several mornings to see them in 'your backyard'. There are Coues deer (a small whitetail), pronghorns (get up early to see them), a prairie dog town, coyotes can be heard many nights, and all kinds of birds.
Empire Ranch has a great but small museum, with trails around it for walking, nice restrooms, free water for filling your RV, and a rich history. If La Cieneguita campground is full (only eight sites) There are other areas with La Cienagas National Conservation Area for camping including a large former small airport on the other side of Empire Ranch.
- ttracey M.Scout
Harshaw Road Dispersed Camping - San Rafael Canyon
Beautiful and don’t leave your stuff unattended.
Awesome spots along the roads in this area. We had to leave our very private site one day and left a few things behind — sadly it was all gone when we came back. Lesson learned, but a big bummer.
- Dean E.Scout
West Hunt Road
By Cochise Stronghold trailhead
Road in is bad but not horrible. Lots of sites and many open on Wednesday in late February. Great views and clean. 1.5 miles to campground and trailhead.
OllieTraveler
Harshaw Ave - Coronado National Forest
Oliver’s Truck Camping Experience
I enjoyed this camp site overall. It was only 10 minutes away from Patagonia and it had lots of dry firewood. The downside is there is no water source and also road noise. I was there Friday night through Monday morning and heard road noice throughout the night except for Sunday night.
I would recommend exploring above where the pin is because there is more free dispersed camping that will be quieter and more remote.
- hholly C.Ranger
Dragoon Mountains
Amazing
Make sure to take the road out of tombstone, east to find. Road it a bit washboard but not hard. So many sites to find.
- hholly C.Ranger
Harshaw Ave - Coronado National Forest
Nice camp sites right on the road
Nice camp sites right along on the side of the road. Loose cows. Site worked for a night.
- hholly C.Ranger
Patagonia Dispersed Campsite
Takes you to a locked private gate.
Locked gate.
Christopher F.TravelerCieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
Great dispersed camping with plenty of wildlife to see.
Prairie dogs and pronghorn antelope are daily visitors. Too many birds to count.
Remington R.TravelerWest Hunt Road
Nice...
Road going in is horrible, washboard the whole way... it's a beautiful little camping area, no bathrooms and no water... I have T-mobile. I didn't get a signal at all, but I have a T-mobile internet modem, and it got a good signal... Beautiful views of the mountains whare I was parked I watched people free climb up than back down, I don't recommend that it was extremely steep...
Kelly K.ScoutTombstone Camp on Forest Road 687
Beautiful views, spread out dispersed camps
Middleware road is highly washboarded. Forest Service Road is smoother but has some deep cuts. Made it fairly easily in small Class A. Nice sites with soft dirt and sand. Beautiful views of the Dragoons.
- AAllup E.Scout
Juniper Flats Dispersed
Outstanding Views
Road is very steep in places. 4 wheel drive would be necessary if road is wet or raining, otherwise passenger car and truck passable. Camping spots are at the edges which makes for fantastic sunrises and sunsets
Kelly B.Traveler
Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping
Incredible views, peaceful and remote
This place is unreal. It reminds me of African plains. It's a higher elevation grassland that makes you feel like you're anywhere but in Arizona. The area is large. Roads are well-kept. It used to be a huge ranch and now it's owned by the BLM. Cows roam, so be aware. So do antelope and deer.
There's no shade to speak of. You can visit the old ranch headquarters and somtimes there's a doula there to give you a tour. It's interesting for the history.
You can get water at the headquarters and they have bathrooms there, but you cannot stay there overnight.
Just south of this area is Sonoita, famous for its wineries. You can hit some of the wineries or breweries and do some tasting.
The area is just stunning, and the elevation is higher than Tucson so if you're looking for some cooler temps, you'll find them here.
Untrammelers B.Guide
Charleston LDS Monument Site
Good Free Camping
We were able to easily get our RV there and tour Tombstone during the day. Quiet…close to road but road isn’t busy. It’s basically just a parking lot at a trailhead. It will do if you are looking for a quick spot to lay your head. There were other campers…we felt safe there.
- BBeckyGuide
Empire Ranch Area Dispersed Camping
We like it.
Big sites spread out. There are not many places and that's ok. Looks like local weekenders come with ATV"s. We found a nice spot at the junction of a couple roads. Past the ranch, not in the group site. Noisy ATVs and the threat of snow made us move away however we would come back and spend several days. Beautiful views, we pent the evening observing the hawks hunting.
- SStuart K.Guide
La Cienegas National Conservation Area Dispersed
BLM land beautiful open space
Open space for boondocking. Historic ranch house open for visiting. Saw many birds and few other campers. Public bathroom at ranch headquarters and water . A mountain biking riding area - gravel roads and cattle in fields.
Aliza N.
Legend
Maternity Well Dispersed Campsite
Quiet and beautiful
This spot is v quiet and there was no one else around when we were here in December {other than the cows!}. It’s does get quite cold as you’re around 5K ft elevation here. We camped near the Group site but not in it. There are a few other flat spots that would work for smaller set ups. The Group site itself apparently needs a special permit for use. Road to the site was dirt but our Chevy van had no prob getting down it - that might change if there was rain or snow tho! Mountains all around and they were beautifully topped with snow when we were here!! Lovely stay
Scott H.ScoutCieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area
Beautiful surroundings. Peaceful and quiet.
Cold in december....but still a awesome place
- LLivvyScout
Dragoon Mountains
Lovely
We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks. Pretty popular place, most spots along the road were occupied but seemed like there were a couple open. Rangers stopped by mid day.
- JJonalynScout
Miller Backcountry Camp
Epitomized camping !
It’s great. It is what I enjoy about camping. No light or sound pollution. And it’s beautiful.
Guide to Sierra Vista
Camping near Sierra Vista, Arizona, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet place to unwind, there are plenty of options to explore.
What to do
Explore Kartchner Caverns State Park: This park is just a short drive from Sierra Vista. One visitor said, “Kartchner Cave is walking distance with a great observation center even if you don’t take a tour into the caves.” It’s a great spot for hiking and checking out the unique cave formations.
Enjoy Patagonia Lake State Park: Perfect for fishing and birdwatching, one camper noted, “Great campground located on a lake. I do really like the birdwatching area outside the visitor center.” The lake also has a small beach for swimming.
Hike in the Dragoon Mountains: Known for its stunning views, a reviewer mentioned, “We found a nice secluded spot among the rocks. Pretty popular place, most spots along the road were occupied but seemed like there were a couple open.” It’s a great area for hiking and enjoying nature.
What campers like
- Amenities at Tucson - Lazydays KOA: Campers appreciate the variety of amenities available. One reviewer said, “This KOA is a true resort with major amenities, such as a pool, putt-putt golf course, pickleball, restaurant, and planned activities.” It’s a great place for families looking for activities.
- Clean facilities at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground: Visitors often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A camper shared, “Clean restrooms, nice showers, friendly camp hosts.” This makes for a comfortable stay.
- Scenic views at Bog Springs Campground: Many love the natural beauty of this campground. One visitor stated, “This campground sits among tall trees and offers stunning views of the surroundings.” It’s a peaceful spot to relax.
What you should know
- Limited privacy at Patagonia Lake State Park: Some campers noted that the sites can be close together. One reviewer mentioned, “Campsites are very close with limited privacy.” If you prefer more space, consider other options.
- No drinking water at Cochise Stronghold Campground: Be prepared to bring your own water. A camper pointed out, “There is no drinking water when we were there late September.” It’s essential to plan ahead.
- Road conditions at Dragoon Mountains: The access road can be rough. A visitor warned, “Off of main road, it’s about 10 miles + of washboard. A bit rough but wide road and fine when going slow.” Drive carefully to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Tips for camping with families
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places like Tucson - Lazydays KOA, which offers activities for kids. One parent said, “The staff was great and the customer service was great. There are very unique spots you can choose from.”
- Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A camper at Kartchner Caverns State Park Campground mentioned, “There are clean restrooms. The stars at night are beautiful!” Stargazing can be a fun family activity.
- Pack snacks and meals: Having food on hand can save time and keep everyone happy. A visitor at Patagonia Lake State Park noted, “Good campground for fishermen and bird watchers.”
Tips from RVers
- Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. One RVer shared, “If you have a rig over 35’, make sure you research the site before booking.” This is especially important at places like Cochise Stronghold Campground.
- Use a reliable GPS: Some campers have had issues with directions. A visitor at Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping mentioned, “The GPS coordinates of this site are way off.” Always double-check your route.
- Bring extra supplies: Since some campgrounds don’t have stores, it’s wise to stock up. A camper at Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area said, “There is no highway noise and the nighttime stars are brilliant.” Enjoy the peace, but be prepared!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Sierra Vista, AZ?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Sierra Vista, AZ is Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area with a 4.6-star rating from 14 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Sierra Vista, AZ?
TheDyrt.com has all 39 dispersed camping locations near Sierra Vista, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.