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Best Dispersed Camping near Tucson, AZ

224 Reviews

Dispersed camping areas surround Tucson, Arizona, offering free primitive sites on public lands. Popular locations include Snyder Hill BLM, Redington Pass, Cactus Forest, and Ironwood Forest National Monument. These sites operate on a 14-day stay limit and provide no amenities. Snyder Hill BLM, located just off Ajo Highway, offers convenient access to Saguaro National Park West. According to camper Carol W., "The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four-legged camper," though entrance roads can be rough with multiple dips.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, with 4WD necessary for Redington Pass and remote sections of Cactus Forest. As one camper noted, "The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal." Access roads to Snyder Hill feature steep entrances that should be scouted before bringing in larger rigs. Arriving during daylight hours is strongly advised for all sites.

These areas provide no water, toilets, or trash service. All waste must be packed out. Cell service is generally good near Snyder Hill and Pipeline Road but diminishes in more remote locations. Fire restrictions frequently apply; always check current BLM fire regulations before camping. When fires are permitted, clear a minimum 10-foot radius around any fire ring due to dry vegetation. Several campers report target shooting activity in some areas, particularly Cactus Forest. Arizona State Trust Lands adjacent to BLM areas require a separate $20 annual permit for camping. Summer temperatures can be extreme; winter and spring offer more comfortable camping conditions.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tucson, Arizona (43)

    1. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    33 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Bureau of Land Management site. 14 day limit. Easy access and we were able to park our 42 ft motor home easily. The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four legged camper!"

    "This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge. "

    2. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

    16 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    22 miles
    Website

    "It’s just past the Tanque Verde Falls trailhead parking lot. Beautiful views and lots of RVs around. Off-road route can be bumpy but worth it. Car camping OK."

    "We brought our small tow-behind popup camper up the winding road until we reached the information pull-off, and decided to unhitch there and continue up the road in search of an empty spot with just our"

    3. BLM off of W Valencia Rd | Wild Camping

    3 Reviews
    Tucson, AZ
    12 miles

    "Turn north on the dirt road just west of the casino and follow the power lines north up a coupe hundred yards and you will see the camping area just off your right."

    "Very flat, can get a size RV in here. Only reason I’m giving 4 stars is there are a few people you can tell live here. Therefore, a little noisy with people coming in/out all day. No gate."

    4. Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 388-8300

    "Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back"

    "Great way to escape the summer heat of Tucson! Bring your hats and gloves!"

    5. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Plenty of easy dirt roads that we were able to take our ebikes on. Good sites…but watch for rain in the forecast…the desert floor turns to mush and you might find yourself stuck until it dries out."

    "Spent a night here, the site was great if you’re looking for a mostly flat area to camp. There’s a herd of bulls / cows that graze in the area."

    6. Reddington Pass Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    "It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around."

    "40 mile scenic drive on a 4x4 road, dispersed camping along the way. Extremely popular view to park off the road in the saguaros."

    7. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    37 miles
    Website

    "Classic BLM-style camping, meaning no amenities, dispersed, and pack out all waste.

    This campground’s name is quite apt; it is indeed a cactus forest, and a beautiful one at that."

    "This area is about 30 minutes away from Rilloto for supplies. Picacho Peak State park is 20 minutes away for hiking. Overall, it is a quiet area with beautiful views."

    8. Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

    15 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Dispersed camping. No amenities. The spots at the cieneguita camp are full Everytime we have camped at the preserve but there is plenty of open area to pick a spot."

    "I was traveling from Tucson to Sonoita and had myself a nice overnight. I saw one other camper here, but never heard them. Pulled down the road then through the gate and went about a mile."

    9. The Lake - Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Vail, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 378-0311

    "This was the perfect place to have my first dispersed camping experience."

    10. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    3 Reviews
    Catalina, AZ
    25 miles

    "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tucson, AZ

185 Photos of 43 Tucson Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tucson, AZ

224 Reviews of 43 Tucson Campgrounds

  • L
    Apr. 11, 2022

    The Lake - Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed Bliss

    This was the perfect place to have my first dispersed camping experience. I tried following Google Maps to the gate however the dirt road it had me try was no longer accessible by car as it was very overgrown. I returned back on the road and continued for about 1/4 mile and found the accessible main dirt road. The gate was closed, please close it once you get your car inside. You must have a Public Lands Trust permit which I did not realize until I got to the gate. Getting one was super easy. $20 for a full year permit and $1 online convenience fee. Once I secured the permit, it was time to explore and find my home for the evening. The road is easy to navigate (yellow ribbons on the bushes just in case) and not maintained. Texture is mostly washed rocks with nothing too technical. High clearance vehicle is required and 4x4 suggested. I saw Pond 2 (0.5 miles from the gate) off to my right and decided to take a look instead of going to Pond 1 (1.5 miles from the gate) immediately. I found a spot that would work for me. Fires are allowed (always check BLM for up to date fire restrictions!!) I still cleared a 10 foot radius around my hand built fire ring as there was dried grasses around. No trash service, no water. Surprised to see 2 porta-potties at the gate but I can't say what state they were in as I did not use them. Come and enjoy the solitude and epic sunsets

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 13, 2018

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Boondocking Area

    Bureau of Land Management site. 14 day limit. Easy access and we were able to park our 42 ft motor home easily. The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four legged camper! We saw horseback riders and ATVs enjoying the area. We were able to stay in contact (ATT ) and the city is within an easy drive for supplies. This is a boondock area. Be aware that while camping here you are sharing the area with wildlife (including rattlers). Boondocking etiquette applies (pick up trash and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived). We have camped here several times and will certainly return!

  • Beth G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 23, 2020

    Cactus Forest Dispersed

    Feels secluded, but close to I-10 and Tucson

    We were surprised on the number of people who ventured out to this BLM spot off Park Link Road in the Cactus Forest over a rainy weekend in Tucson.

    The first dozen dispersed spots were full with camper vans, small trailers and trucks. We continued to drive down the gravel dirt road to a more secluded spot. We didn’t see anyone in our one-night stay beside a mountain biker in the morning.

    Even though It was raining in the area for about 24 hours before we travelled to the campsite, we didn’t have any issues navigating the 1.5 miles down to the site we chose. The truck has some mud in it and the 4x4 wasn’t needed (but made it easier). I would recommend a high clearance vehicle to reach the further back spots. Also, the road was narrow, our F250 brushed a few bushes on the way.

    Most dispersed sites had a fire ring (check locally fire conditions first). I’d suggest bringing in fire wood unless you just want to burn the few fallen twig and limbs. It’s a cactus forest- so the terrain is mostly saguaros, chollas, Palo verde trees and shrubs.

    Our site had a beautiful view of the sunset and a view of Picacho Peak in the distance. We visited in February and the weather was nice (on the chilly side) for our roof top tent. I wouldn’t come here in the summer unless we had a rig with air conditioning. Impressive view of the stars at night. Some traffic noise from I-10.

    No water, toilets, or trash. So be prepared to take out what you bring in. We had 2 bars of LTE slcell service with T-Mobile.

    It’s BLM land close to Tucson, so locals use the area for gun target practice. We heard gun shots until the sunset and starting again the morning. It was basically non-stop. If you want a place to shoot, this would be a good spot to camp.

    🌵 Saguaro Facts: Saguaros can live to be 150-200 years old and grow as tall at 40 feet. A 10 year old saguaro Is about 1.5 inches tall (please watch where you drive, park and step). At 80 years old, it’s around 6 feet tall and starts to bloom. The best time to see saguaro blooms is mid-May through mid-June. At age 95-100, it’s around 15 feet tall and starts to grow it’s first arm. 🌵

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 28, 2021

    Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed

    Good access and popular

    This seems to be the popular dispersed camping area along North Pump Station Road within the BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument. Numerous dispersed sites along a two track dirt road on both sides of the main gravel road. Free dispersed, 14D limit. No water, trash, toilets or designated spots. Cell signal is very good and OTA tv is also very good. Last mile or so from end of pavement is a wide graded dirt road accessing the dispersed sites from either direction, however the Silverbell road access seems to have a narrow bridge with a 6k weight limit?, So access to this site is from the south on gravel west El Tiro Rd for larger rigs?

    (Note that State land is adjacent and also offers dispersed camping sites but an AZ state lands permit would be required on State lands.)

    One negative issue is the constant target shooting from adjacent State lands.

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 4, 2019

    Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    Quiet & Very Close to Saguaro NP (west)

    This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge.  Greeted people here from all walks of life -- from those living out of the back of truck to brand new 45 foot motorhomes.

    Like many high-impact BLM areas, the entrance roads are not well-maintained so some are quite rough. We arrived in the dark, which we do not recommend as it was difficult to see where the entrances were and how rough the roads were ahead of us. The parking/camping spaces are not designated, but heavy use has carved out lots of opportunities. 

    There are a few places to walk or ride throughout the property, which is actually quite small based on typical BLM property.  However, the nearby areas of Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mountain Park, offer plenty of opportunities for both. 

    No facilities, no water or even a stream…so plan ahead!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 5, 2021

    BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping

    Flat and Sandy but close in

    This free BLM dispersed area is at the southeast corner of the National Monument at jct of Mile Wide road and Reservation road. Access on either road is on a wide gravel road for about a mile Note that Mile Wide road has two narrow bridges with a 10k weight limit. Free dispersed, no water, toilets, fire rings, tables or trash containers. However cell signal is very good. This site is only a few miles from both Saguaro National Park and Tucson Mt Park. Entrance has an unlocked gate (close gate behind you) and a new fancy BLM sign. There was a sign in past visits noting no target shooting in the Ironwood monument but someone ripped it down. State trust lands are adjacent and intermixed in this area also. (Camping is allowed on State trust lands but you have to get an online permits for $20). Only 2 stars due to lack of saguaros or ironwood trees and other interesting vegetation, just a sandy flat plain with creosote bushes, but safe for dogs though! ATV use may be an issue on weekends. Seems target shooters are close by with no County Sheriff intervention and the dense dried grass makes campfires a risk. Also there is a high pitch machine noise from the water pump stations nearby that can be irritating. Two stars, maybe one star...

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 3, 2022

    BLM Ironwood Monument - 2555 ft Knob Overlander 4x4 Dispersed Camping area

    Overlander Truck camping only

    This free dispersed BLM camping area is along an unmarked two- track road that heads toward a topographic feature knob (2555 ft elevation). No water, toilets or trash. Cell service is ok unless you get close to back side of knob. The access road is not doable for RVs or TTs IMO, so this area is more suited to high clearance overlander and truck campers. Road has large water potholes after rains also. Road ends at a large opening that was likely a shooting area in past. Only thing there now is a lazyboy recliner for your camping needs, however my pup peeded on it!

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 29, 2021

    AZ State Land North Pump Station Road Dispersed

    AZ State land dispersed

    AZ State trust lands adjacent to BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument. I noticed the state lands seem to have more trash than the adjacent BLM, hence the two stars. Note that AZ State Trust Lands require a permit to camp on, this permit is online and costs around $20 good for a year. Dispersed camping. No water, toilets or trash dumpsters. Cell signal is very good however.

  • Greg L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 28, 2021

    Ironwood Forest BLM Aqua Blanca dispersed camp

    Big parking area, no privacy

    This access point to Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument is at the west end of Manville road, the last 1/2 mile is graded dirt. The camping area is just a large parking area with some BLM info signs, the area is bordered by barrier rocks. Vegetation is ugly beat down desert by livestock grazing. Not much privacy here if more than 2 camps. Cell signal is good. The old two track road west is likely only a 4x4 Jeep type road. Free dispersed. 14d limit, no water, trash or toilets.

Guide to Tucson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tucson, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Tucson, Arizona

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Cieneguita

  • The Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area is known for its isolation and well-spaced campsites, making it a peaceful retreat away from highway noise.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse fauna, including Coues deer and pronghorns, often spotted around the Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area.
  • With no permit required and free access, this area is perfect for spontaneous trips, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature without the hassle of reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What BLM land is available for camping around Tucson?

The Tucson area offers several BLM camping options. Ironwood Forest BLM National Monument Pump Station Dispersed provides numerous sites along a two-track dirt road on both sides of the main gravel road with the standard 14-day limit. Cactus Forest Dispersed off Park Link Road offers multiple spots suitable for various camping setups, from vans to small trailers. Other BLM options include Ironwood Forest's Reservation Road area, Pipeline Road sites, and the 2555 ft Knob area (accessible only with 4x4 vehicles). These sites typically feature open desert terrain surrounded by classic Sonoran Desert vegetation including saguaros and ironwood trees. Most areas are accessible via gravel or dirt roads of varying quality, with some requiring high-clearance vehicles.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tucson?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Tucson. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area offers convenient free camping right off Ajo Highway with a 14-day stay limit and space for all vehicle types, from trucks to large motorhomes. Another popular option is Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping, which provides free sites in a more remote setting. The Tucson area has multiple BLM locations with dispersed camping, particularly in the Ironwood Forest National Monument region. Most sites offer easy access from main roads, though conditions vary from well-graded gravel to rougher dirt tracks. No reservations are required—sites are first-come, first-served, but it's wise to arrive early during peak winter season when the Tucson area becomes popular with campers seeking warmer weather.

What amenities are available at Tucson dispersed camping sites?

Dispersed camping around Tucson offers few to no amenities, following true boondocking principles. Sites like Ironwood Forest BLM Aqua Blanca dispersed camp and Road Canyon Camping Area provide no water, toilets, trash service, or designated fire rings. Campers must pack in all water and supplies while packing out all waste and trash. Cell service varies significantly by location—areas closer to Tucson typically have better reception. Many sites offer decent ATT coverage, allowing campers to stay connected. Sites are generally unmarked and undesignated, though some areas have barrier rocks or pullouts indicating camping spots. The terrain is typically flat, desert landscapes with varying road conditions. Accessibility ranges from easy gravel roads suitable for all vehicles to rough tracks requiring high clearance or 4WD.

Is dispersed camping available year-round in Tucson?

Yes, dispersed camping is available year-round around Tucson, but seasonal considerations are important. Winter (October through April) is prime camping season due to mild temperatures ranging from 40-75°F, making sites like The Lake - Dispersed Camping particularly popular. Summer camping is possible but challenging due to extreme heat that regularly exceeds 100°F during June through September. Higher elevation sites like Mount Bigelow Dispersed offer cooler summer temperatures. Monsoon season (July-September) brings flash flood risks in desert washes and potential road washouts. BLM areas maintain the same 14-day stay limits throughout the year. Winter brings more crowded conditions as snowbirds flock to the region, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended to secure preferred spots during the cooler months.

Do I need a permit for dispersed camping in the Tucson area?

Permit requirements vary by land management agency around Tucson. BLM lands like BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping generally don't require permits for stays up to 14 days. However, camping on Arizona State Trust Lands, such as AZ State Land North Pump Station Road Dispersed, requires a recreational permit costing around $20 annually. These permits can be purchased online through the Arizona State Land Department. National Forest dispersed camping typically doesn't require specific permits but may have seasonal fire restrictions requiring additional permits for campfires. Always check current regulations before your trip as requirements can change, and BLM rangers regularly patrol popular areas to verify compliance with stay limits and other regulations.

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