Dispersed camping near Tolleson, Arizona primarily consists of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and Arizona State Trust properties with elevation ranges from 1,100 to 2,500 feet. Most camping areas fall within a 30-45 minute drive from Tolleson, providing accessibility while maintaining the essential desert camping experience. Desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically between day and night, often dropping 30°F after sunset, requiring appropriate clothing and shelter considerations.
What to do
Hiking at Saddle Mountain: Access multiple trails of varying difficulty levels from Saddle Mountain BLM dispersed camping area, ranging from beginner to advanced routes. "We road our E bikes all over and did some agate hunting with wonderful success!" reports one visitor, highlighting additional outdoor activity options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and evening hours offer the best chances to observe native desert wildlife. At Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, one camper noted, "Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well."
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution at dispersed sites creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "Stargazing is spectacular. You won't regret it!" writes a camper at Saddle Mountain BLM, where the distance from urban centers enhances night sky visibility.
What campers like
Desert sunrises and sunsets: The unobstructed horizon views from dispersed sites provide spectacular daily light shows. One camper at Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74 recalls, "Awoke to WONDERFUL hot air balloons, cactus and mountains… after sunrise! What a sight!"
Seasonal wildflower displays: Following winter rains (typically January-March), the desert landscape transforms with colorful wildflowers. "Beautiful campsite, first camping trip with our new travel trailer and this was great first spot! Dirt road was a little bumpy but actual campsite was easy to get to," shares a visitor to Old Airstrip Camping area.
Solitude and space: Many sites provide significant distance between campers. At Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land, one camper appreciates that "the further off carefree you get, the more solitude you'll find."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Arizona State Trust lands require an annual recreation permit ($15-16). One visitor clarifies, "Paid the $16 annual state land trust fee. Stayed a few nights. Was windy and dusty on our stay, but generally not much to complain about."
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads range from well-maintained to technically challenging. At Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping, a camper advises, "Better to have a 4 wheel drive with decent clearance for some of the trails. Most camp spots aren't too deep in so it's easiest to access."
Safety considerations: Be prepared for rapid weather changes and limited services. "No problems except for the people on drugs. Be careful and lock up before you leave to go anywhere," warns a visitor to Maddock Road, emphasizing the importance of security awareness at remote sites.
Weekend crowds: Many sites experience increased activity Friday through Sunday. "Quiet weekdays, loud weekends due to motor vehicles breaking the rules. (Not a OHV area but treated as such)," notes a camper at State Land Trust/Inspiration Point.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife education opportunities: Desert camping provides hands-on learning about unique ecosystems. "Full Verizon cell service and nice warm weather in December. I love all the cacti as well," shares a visitor at Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74, noting connectivity for research or emergency contact.
Proximity to conveniences: Select sites with reasonable access to supplies. At Anthem Dispersed Campsite, campers appreciate that "There are quiet areas and also areas where people run ATVs and dirt bikes," allowing families to choose appropriate locations based on preference.
Cactus safety: Educate children about proper desert conduct and plant identification. "My dog already got spines in her paws," cautions a camper at Old Airstrip area, highlighting potential hazards for both children and pets.
Tips from RVers
Level parking considerations: Many dispersed sites require careful positioning. "The area is quiet and easy to get to. RV and pet friendly," notes a Saddle Mountain visitor, though finding level ground often requires scouting.
Site selection strategy: Arrive during daylight hours to properly assess terrain. "We arrived late at night and could not see too well, but parked and slept soundly. We returned for a longer stay! Lovely and quiet! (We drove further from the road, and parked in daylight this time!)," shares a camper at Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74.
Off-grid preparation: Most sites lack hookups or facilities. At Maddock Road Dispersed, one RVer reports, "I had Christmas Eve dinner with a bunch of other campers. A lot of fun," demonstrating the community aspect that can develop at these locations despite the absence of formal infrastructure.
