Best Dispersed Camping near Tolleson, AZ

The desert landscape surrounding Tolleson, Arizona features predominantly dispersed camping options on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Arizona State Trust lands. Within a 30-mile radius, campers will find several notable areas including the Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, Maddock Road Dispersed camping on State Trust Land, and Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping. Most sites accommodate both tent and RV camping with minimal to no amenities. The region's proximity to Phoenix provides convenient access to urban services while still offering the characteristic Sonoran Desert camping experience complete with saguaro cacti, mountain views, and desert wildlife including coyotes and wild burros.

Road conditions and vehicle requirements vary significantly across camping areas near Tolleson. Many BLM roads require high-clearance vehicles, with some sites accessible only to 4x4 vehicles. As one camper noted, "The road is a bit tricky. While 4WD isn't necessary, I wouldn't come out here without high clearance and decent suspension." Permits are required for several areas, particularly Arizona State Trust lands which require a $15 annual recreation permit. The 14-day stay limit is standard across most BLM properties. Winter months (November through March) offer the most comfortable camping conditions, while summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. Cell service is generally reliable across the region, though signal strength and quality vary by location and carrier.

Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience throughout the area. According to one visitor at the Old Airstrip area, "Wild burros wander through occasionally, and coyotes make their presence known as well." Noise levels vary considerably between locations, with sites closer to highways experiencing truck noise and some areas popular with off-road vehicles becoming busy on weekends. Several campers mention the spectacular desert sunsets and stargazing opportunities as highlights. The Sonoran Desert vegetation, particularly the iconic saguaro cacti, creates a distinctive camping backdrop, though visitors with pets should be cautious of cholla cactus spines. Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency as they lack water, restrooms, and trash facilities, making proper preparation essential.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tolleson, Arizona (49)

    1. State land trust/Inspiration Point

    6 Reviews
    Surprise, AZ
    19 miles
    Website

    "Gunshots in the distance, but no incidents/casualties lol. Pulled my 31ft TT back into a spot for a week. Close 10 min drive to stores like WinCo and Safeway and gas stations."

    2. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land

    10 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "That's right, this is AZ, State Trust land, AKA: FREE camping and parking land—72,000 acres of open dispersed, rough, rugged, off-the-grid life."

    "Numerous campsites available in an area along State Road 74 and New River/Lake Pleasant Roads, at least 2 or 3000 acres with hundreds of establish campsites."

    3. Dispersed Camping off hwy 74

    10 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    25 miles

    "Lower clearance rigs and vehicles need to stay closer to the main road. We have a 4x4 class C towing a Jeep so we went through some steep banked washes."

    "The campsite is good, quiet, easily accessible and I met some friendly neighbors. I love all the cacti as well. There is quite a bit of trash and glass around."

    4. Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area

    19 Reviews
    Anthem, AZ
    35 miles

    "Two week stay limit, but that's pretty standard for BLM properties. There's no facilities so be prepared. Good level land and plenty of room."

    "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!"

    5. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    39 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 👌🏼."

    6. Boulders OHV Area

    7 Reviews
    Wittmann, AZ
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "Nobody else on Friday night, plenty of space

    The typical rumble strip dirt road to this point but easily doable.

    Service: 1 bar Verizon"

    "Huge area to disperse camp with an actual bathroom. If you dont mind occasional off road vehicles driving through during the day, its a good spot with plenty of room."

    8. Saddle Mountain BLM (Tonopah, AZ)

    22 Reviews
    Tonopah, AZ
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (509) 665-2100

    "Turned left on the dirt road around mile marker 13--as other reviewers stated, the dirt roads closer to you when coming from the east are very rocky--I had to take it VERY slow just driving my high-clearance"

    "This is one of my favorite areas to boondock in the southwest winter season. The views are phenomenal ! To my surprise I thought it would be crowded here this year, but no."

    9. Anthem Dispersed Campsite

    1 Review
    Anthem, AZ
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    10. BLM - North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness

    4 Reviews
    Gila Bend, AZ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "Not sure if I put these coordinates in right, this is only my second time contributing but if you head north on 85 going towards buckeye you will turn right on South Woods Road."

    "Lots of room to spread out and be away from neighbors if that’s your thing"

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tolleson, AZ

207 Reviews of 49 Tolleson Campgrounds



Guide to Tolleson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tolleson, Arizona, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of options available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore the stunning landscapes.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Tolleson

Unique Features for Dispersed Campers

  • The Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74 area is pet-friendly and allows campfires, making it a great choice for families and friends looking to enjoy a cozy evening under the stars.
  • At Anthem Dispersed Campsite, you'll find a mix of quiet spots and areas buzzing with ATV activity, catering to different preferences for a camping experience.
  • For those seeking a more rugged adventure, Cow Creek Road Dispersed offers a long access road with plenty of room to spread out, perfect for those who enjoy solitude and the sounds of nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tolleson, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tolleson, AZ is State land trust/Inspiration Point with a 2.3-star rating from 6 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 49 dispersed camping locations near Tolleson, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.