Best Dispersed Camping near Superstition Mtn, AZ

The Superstition Mountains area has several dispersed camping spots across public lands where you'll need to bring everything yourself. Most sites sit on hard-packed desert soil that works well for tent setup but can be tough on tent stakes. Forest roads leading to camping areas typically require at least 6-8 inches of clearance, with some routes becoming impassable after rain. Apache Junction is about 20 miles away for supplies like food, water and fuel. You won't find toilets or trash service, so plan to pack out all waste. The nearest potable water source is often back in town. Most dispersed sites in the area fall under Tonto National Forest management, which means you'll need a Tonto Pass displayed on your vehicle. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, making winter and spring the better seasons for camping here. Fire bans are common from May through October due to extreme fire danger. Cell service is spotty throughout the area, with the best reception on higher ridges. Many campers set up near the First Water Trailhead area, which gives good access to hiking trails but fills up on weekends. Rangers patrol regularly to enforce the 14-day stay limit.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Superstition Mtn, Arizona (55)

    1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "Pretty passable dirt road (our G20 camper van had no problems). Sunsets were so so pretty and for us Washingtonians, camping in the desert amongst the saguaros was 👌🏼."

    2. Hackamore Road Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "It's on BLM land, so you are out of the reach of the Arizona Land Permits.

    The road is a bit tricky."

    "It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby."

    3. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    8 Reviews
    Gold Canyon, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "Drive through the town of Gold Canyon AZ, and you quickly leave behind the sprawl of suburban Phoenix, but embrace the sprawling landscape of the Sonoran Desert which is brimming with life in the spring"

    "But around 9pm it quiets down. Sites are close to the road for the most part unless you have a high clearance vehicle. Lots of hiking in the area. Trail head at end of road gets very busy."

    4. Dispersed Site Near Tonto National Forest

    4 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "Site is close to road but also amenities like Cafe and restaurants. Has 5bar Tmobile service. 5 miles Walmart and just down road from Tonto national park."

    5. Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88

    3 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    10 miles

    "Just 2 miles before the Fish Creek Overlook, lie several dispersed areas off the dirt road to camp for up to 14 days."

    "Great to go on hike or to lake after.

    Went a second time and took a 4x4 trail to get a more isolated spot"

    6. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - West Entrance

    5 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    "Thanks to the efforts of the environaz- mentality of the last 40 years there are horribly few true sanctioned OHV areas for folks to legally use and enjoy offroad Motorsports, neither FREE or PAID.   "

    7. Horse Trails Boondock

    2 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    8 miles

    "Great view of the Superstitions and nice trails to walk to pass the time. It was getting pretty rutted and can flood in some low spots .

    No one ever bothered me and didn't feel unsafe."

    8. Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed

    11 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    20 miles

    "Can get dusty from riders if you stay near the front. If you take some time to come scout it out you can find some great spots."

    "Great trails! Big rig friendly boondocking. Busy dirt road, as there is an active mine off the road. Loud dump trucks and dusty, but a beautiful desert oasis, nonetheless."

    9. Apache Trail North Camp

    1 Review
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    8 miles

    10. Superstition Mountain AZ state trust dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Queen Valley, AZ
    17 miles
    Website

    "Several miles of dispersed campsites along a gas line road south of the Superstition Mountains. Lots of folks out there on a weekend after a few good rain storms."

    "We car camped for the weekend here. Liked how the spots are spaced out. Other than road traffic during the day it’s nice and quiet"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Superstition Mtn, AZ

171 Reviews of 55 Superstition Mtn Campgrounds



Guide to Superstition Mtn

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Superstition Mountain, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Superstition Mtn, Arizona

  • Always check for any required permits before heading out, as some areas like Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed require a permit for access.
  • Be prepared for rough roads; for instance, Hackamore Road Dispersed is known for its challenging access, so a vehicle with high clearance is recommended.
  • Keep an eye on local regulations regarding campfires, as some areas may have restrictions based on fire danger, particularly in spots like Peralta Road Dispersed Camping.

Scenic Views and Activities for Dispersed Campers

Wildlife and Nature Experiences While Free Camping Near Superstition Mtn

  • Expect to encounter diverse wildlife, including free-roaming cattle at Superstition Mountain AZ State Trust Dispersed, which can add a unique touch to your camping experience.
  • Birdwatching is a popular activity in the area, especially around Box Bar Road Dispersed, where you can spot various species in their natural habitat.
  • The scenic landscapes provide excellent photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise and sunset at locations like Saguaro Cove, where the views are breathtaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Superstition Mtn, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Superstition Mtn, AZ is Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance with a 3.8-star rating from 27 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Superstition Mtn, AZ?

TheDyrt.com has all 55 dispersed camping locations near Superstition Mtn, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.