Dispersed camping near Sun City West, Arizona offers access to primitive desert sites on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Arizona State Trust Land. Located in the Sonoran Desert at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, this region experiences temperature swings of up to 30 degrees between day and night during winter months. Cell service is generally strong at most sites, with campers reporting download speeds of 75+ mb/s in some locations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: fauna and flora: The desert landscape surrounding Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area hosts wild burros and coyotes. "Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well," notes William M. The area also features diverse cactus species: "Really cool cactus variations all around, you can hear coyotes. And there are wild burros in the area you can def hear them and during the week it's likely you will see them!"
Hot air balloon watching: morning spectacles: Early risers at Anthem Dispersed Campsite can witness hot air balloons drifting over the desert. A camper at a nearby site observed, "Awoke to hot air balloons on the horizon! Great walks! Lovely and remote!" The colorful balloons against the desert sunrise create excellent photography opportunities.
Off-road adventures: designated trail systems: The Boulders OHV Area provides extensive trails for off-road enthusiasts. "Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites," writes Caitlin S. Some weekends feature organized events: "Some weekends have horse or Dirtbike events. Nearby washes lead to tons of trails near castle hot springs that can lead to various abounded mine sites."
What campers like
Desert solitude: escape crowds: Campers appreciate the ability to find isolation at Dispersed Camping off hwy 74. "The further you get away from the main road the less people," notes James P., who travels in a 4x4 class C towing a Jeep. Weekday stays typically offer more tranquility: "It's not bad most days. The wind gets pretty strong out here and there are a lot of side by sides that run very late into the night in the weekends."
Stargazing: clear desert skies: The minimal light pollution at desert campsites creates excellent night sky viewing. At Saddle Mountain BLM, campers report exceptional astronomy opportunities: "Stargazing is spectacular. You won't regret it!" Another camper noted the "Night sky was amazing" during a mid-week stay when crowds were minimal.
Accessibility: proximity to supplies: Many appreciate the convenient location of Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land relative to urban amenities. "Close to shopping and anything we needed it was great," reports Laura S. Another camper values the "Shell by this spot" while noting it's "pricey so make sure to get some stuff at Walmart in Anthem or somewhere else."
What you should know
Permit requirements: plan ahead: Arizona State Trust Land requires a Recreation Permit costing $16 annually (previously $15). "I paid the $16 annual state land trust fee. Stayed a few nights," reports Adria K. Be aware that enforcement varies: "Paid the$15 fee and I've been here a couple weeks. People are pretty great."
Road conditions: variable access: Road quality differs significantly between sites. At Saddle Mountain BLM, "the two track roads get rough and rocky" the farther you travel from pavement. William M. describes Old Airstrip access as "a little rough, but ok," while Ralph S. characterizes another road as having "the typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable."
Closures and restrictions: check before going: Some previously popular areas have recently closed. "Brand new 'No Motor vehicle' signs have been erected this week. Literally I got here yesterday and the sign was up today," reports Albert A. about one site. Another camper confirmed similar closures: "Coordinates led to a cattle guard that is fenced closed. No access to the site."
Tips for camping with families
Safety awareness: desert hazards: Families should exercise caution around desert vegetation. One camper notes: "All the cacti so close is a bit hazardous for pets and small children, my dog already got spines in her paws." Keep children and pets supervised and on established paths.
Security considerations: valuables protection: Take precautions with belongings at all dispersed sites. "No problems except for the people on drugs. Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere," advises Tim J. Leave valuables secured or take them with you when exploring.
Community gatherings: seasonal opportunities: Holiday periods can create unexpected social experiences. One camper at Dispersed Camping off hwy 74 shared: "People are pretty great. I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun." These impromptu gatherings can enhance family camping experiences during holiday seasons.
Tips from RVers
Level parking: site selection strategies: RVers should scout locations before committing. At Saddle Mountain BLM, one RVer advises: "Will need a smaller RV to fit the narrow rocky road, scout first before rolling out back." Another camper shares their experience: "I made it with a 35' skoolie. Just go slow."
Digital connectivity: work options: Remote workers can function effectively at many dispersed sites. At Maddock Road, Conner F. reports: "Great AT&T service, was able to work off hotspot from Tues-Friday with no incidence." Another camper confirms strong connectivity at Old Airstrip: "Really good cell phone service (Verizon - I got 3-4 bars of 4G, which got me 75+ mb/s download speed)."
Duration considerations: stay limits: While BLM lands typically have 14-day stay limits, enforcement varies by location. William M. explains: "Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties." At State Trust Land, some campers report longer stays: "Parked here last two years, 6 months at at time over winter."
