Dispersed camping near Superior, Arizona offers outdoor enthusiasts access to diverse terrain within Tonto National Forest. The region sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation with surrounding mountains reaching over 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through September, while winter nights can drop below freezing, making spring and fall the prime camping seasons.
What to do
Hiking accessibility: At Peralta Regional Park Primitive Remote Campsites, campers can access popular hiking trails directly from their sites. A recent camper noted, "Very close to popular hiking trails. We enjoyed the rustic campsite."
Mountain biking trails: The McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood campground serves as an excellent base for cycling enthusiasts. According to reviews, "Lots of biking to do around" and the "park is popular with mountain bikers." Multiple trail systems connect directly from the campground.
Waterfront activities: The Salt River provides recreational options at several camping areas. At Shores Recreation Area, campers report "great river access" with tree-shaded spots along the Gila River. One visitor described it as having "spots towards the south/downstream where a high clearance would be wise" but offering "great spots on the river."
What campers like
Excellent stargazing: Many campers praise the night skies throughout the region. At Sulphide Del Rey Campground, visitors appreciate the "perfectly dark except for stars between the trees and your fire" conditions. The campground gets "completely silent at night" according to reviews.
Wildlife viewing: Bird watching and wildlife spotting opportunities abound. One camper at Shores Recreation Area mentioned seeing "lots of birds - seeing my first cardinal was the highlight of the stay." The region supports diverse desert wildlife including coyotes and various reptile species.
Shade availability: During hot months, shade becomes critical. McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood offers sites that are "fairly well spread out" with some natural shade. At Shores Recreation Area, campers appreciate that "the sites do have tree cover for shade" which becomes increasingly valuable as temperatures rise.
What you should know
Water planning: Most tent camping areas near Superior require campers to bring all water needed. Diversion Dam is one of the few locations providing potable water, though it requires "climb[ing] about 20 stairs" to reach some facilities. The general recommendation is to pack at least one gallon per person per day.
Access challenges: Many dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. The Hackamore Road Dispersed area has roads described as "terrible," "atrocious," and "full of pot holes and almost impassable." One reviewer warned, "I nearly ripped off my equalizer system."
Seasonal considerations: Camp selection should change with seasons. During summer months (June-September), higher elevation camps provide relief from extreme heat. Winter camping (November-February) works better at lower elevations where overnight temperatures remain more moderate.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Families with younger children might prefer The Point Campground, where each site includes "a covered picnic table and fire pit" plus easy access to water activities. The boat-in requirement makes this a unique adventure for families comfortable with water transportation.
Safety awareness: The region hosts wildlife requiring caution. One camper at Peralta Regional Park reported, "Came across a rattle snake when hiking," highlighting the importance of teaching children proper wilderness safety protocols.
Bathroom facilities: Not all areas provide restrooms. McDowell Regional Park-Ironwood offers "flush toilets, water spigot outside," while at Diversion Dam, campers will find "standard vault toilets." Several primitive areas have no facilities whatsoever.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for small RVs: The best tent camping near Superior, Arizona sometimes accommodates small RVs too. At Hackamore Road Dispersed area, one camper advised, "I wouldn't come out here without high clearance and decent suspension." Another noted, "While 4WD isn't necessary, I wouldn't come out here without high clearance."
Road condition awareness: RV campers must research access roads carefully. Regarding Sulphide Del Rey Campground, a reviewer observed, "Not very much room for a trailer, mostly tent camping" and mentioned "miles of washboard dirt road to get there." Our Honda CRV handled the road ok, I've seen worse roads that I would not drive."
Parking limitations: Many tent camping areas have restricted parking. At Diversion Dam, "you can't take vehicles out of the parking lot so you'll have to hike in to any of the spots" which makes it impractical for larger RVs or trailers despite having "a few pull through trailer spaces" for day use only.
