Rustic camping near Summerhaven, Arizona allows access to cooler temperatures at elevations reaching over 8,000 feet. During summer months, temperatures typically run 20-30 degrees cooler than Tucson valley, making it a popular destination during hot desert summers. Many dispersed camping options require navigating unmarked forest service roads with elevation gain causing reduced engine performance in some vehicles.
What to do
Hiking access: Mount Bigelow Dispersed camping provides convenient access to numerous trails. "Bunch of hiking trails near by, and perfect temperatures in the summer heat," notes Ethan B., who enjoyed the Mount Bigelow Dispersed area during summer.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife including deer and wild turkeys. "Saw some wild life like deer and turkey," reports Jozi A. after camping at Mount Bigelow. Snow on the ground often reveals animal tracks, as Daniel G. discovered: "Snow on the ground by the road, lots of deer tracks in the snow."
Stargazing: The clear mountain air and distance from city lights creates exceptional night sky viewing. At Cactus Forest Dispersed campers report stellar views: "The views of the stars out here were probably the best I've ever seen!" according to Anthony S.
What campers like
Temperature relief: The higher elevations provide significant temperature drops even during peak summer. "It was packed on the weekends, but holy cow, was it gorgeous. Perfect temperatures in the summer heat," says Ethan B. about Mount Bigelow Dispersed.
Secluded spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy available at certain sites. Josh P. describes Mount Bigelow as having "Awesome views, secluded spots. Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back."
Sunrise views: The elevation and clear air create memorable morning views. At Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp, visitors find "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here," according to Ian T., who notes the area is "accessed relatively easily (slowly)" even in larger vehicles.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations change seasonally and aren't always well-posted. "We drove 3 hours from Phoenix for a weekend in the forest, new to town and learning the ways of Arizona camping, didn't realize fires are some times allowed and some times not," warns Jenn L. about Mount Bigelow Dispersed.
Road conditions: Many access roads become difficult or impassable during winter. Daniel G. reports: "Started up the road to the campsite about 2 miles further up the mountain but at about 1/2 mile the road was so icy that we lost traction."
Weekend crowds: Popular areas fill quickly during weekends, particularly in summer. "Very crowded on the weekend but the crowd is friendly and respectful. Great way to escape the summer heat of Tucson!" notes Dynamical Thunder D.
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes rapidly regardless of season. "Bring your hats and gloves!" advises Dynamical Thunder D. at Mount Bigelow Dispersed, despite being a summer escape from Tucson heat.
Cactus safety: Lower elevation camps require careful navigation around hazardous plants. At Cactus Forest, campers warn: "Not good for dogs really cus of cholla cactus everywhere. Watch where you walk and be sure to check shoes before entering your home for the night," explains Danny T.
Space considerations: Some sites offer more room for children to explore safely. Ironwood Forest BLM provides "Very large space between sites," according to Taylor, though she cautions to "Beware of teddy bear cholla cactus! They are everywhere, grab right onto you if you brush them gently by accident. Very painful to get out."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger rigs face significant challenges on mountain roads. At Reddington Pass Dispersed, Joshua M. advises: "We have camped up here a few times in the last year and it is always great. You will want 4x4 to get up farther into the pass. Like mentioned before you won't want too big of a rig."
Scouting recommendation: Many experienced RVers recommend unhitching and scouting sites first. Angela G. recounts her experience: "We tried to camp here on a Tuesday evening and all of the spots were full, to our surprise. 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 car."
Pull-off challenges: Some areas have limited space for larger vehicles to turn around. Cass G. notes about Redington Pass: "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. The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal."
