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Best Dispersed Camping near Tonto Basin, AZ

316 Reviews

The Tonto Basin area encompasses diverse camping options within the Tonto National Forest, primarily featuring dispersed sites along Roosevelt Lake's shoreline. Bermuda Flat Recreation Site offers shoreline camping with basic amenities including portable toilets, while nearby A-Cross Road Dispersed Camping provides more primitive experiences. The region transitions from Sonoran Desert landscapes with saguaro cacti at lower elevations to pine forests at higher elevations. Most sites throughout the area maintain the standard 14-day stay limit common on national forest lands, with campsites ranging from lakeside locations to more remote forest road pullouts.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the Tonto Basin region, with many forest roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. As one camper noted, "There are many forest roads off 188 on the southern shore of Lake Roosevelt where dispersed camping is allowed. Some have spectacular views of the lake but are high up and difficult to get to." Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in lower elevations, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons. Winter brings milder temperatures but occasional freezing conditions at higher elevations. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly in summer months. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, with better coverage on ridges and higher elevations.

Lakeside camping represents the most sought-after option in the area, with Roosevelt Lake providing numerous shoreline access points. According to visitor reports, "We found the most easily accessible dispersed camping off Forest Road 83 between the national monument and little town of Roosevelt. There are large level sites right off the forest road." Wildlife encounters are common, with campers reporting cattle, wild horses, and various desert wildlife. The rocky terrain presents challenges for tent campers in many areas, with several reviewers recommending air mattresses or camping pads. Weekends and holidays see significantly higher usage, especially at easily accessible sites. The area supports various recreational activities including fishing, hiking, boating, and off-road vehicle use on designated trails.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Tonto Basin, Arizona (98)

    1. Bermuda Flat Recreation Site

    4 Reviews
    Tonto Basin, AZ
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 467-3200

    "Leave no TRACE. Shoreline camping. Can get crowded and loud. Otherwise awesome."

    "Free, dispersed camping is located across the highway down the dirt road Bar 3."

    2. Sycamore Creek Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Tonto Basin, AZ
    11 miles

    "There 2 or 3 sites right off the highway, but if you continue down the road there is a larger area with plenty of other sites. Small shrubs and tree around that give privacy from other campers."

    3. A-Cross Road Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Tonto Basin, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5395

    "Large flat spot for dispersed camping. Several other spots close by. Not much traffic on the road."

    4. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    26 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 👌🏼."

    5. Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt

    6 Reviews
    Roosevelt, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5395

    "One of our all-time favorite boondocking spots. There are many forests roads off 188 on the southern shore of Lake Roosevelt where dispersed camping is allowed."

    "We took the dirt road to the end looking for a nice secluded spot, we passed a handful of sites for both rvs and tent. We found a small site in a dried out run off area past the second cattle guard."

    6. Mesquite Wash Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    "The sites itself are right off the highway. Plenty of spots and flat ground to camp on. However, the road to get down to the sites is pretty rough. Would recommend 4x4 capabilities."

    7. Bartlett Reservoir

    4 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    "Such a big lake, every time I go it's a whole different experience . Best thing about this lake is back up to water & pitch ur tent.. no set camp area, just make yourselves comfy where u choose ."

    8. FR414 Dispersed Camp Site

    5 Reviews
    Payson, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (928) 474-7900

    "There are many sites along this road with good access even for large rigs. The fire road in is gravel and fairly well maintained. Many sites are pull thru and most have fire rings."

    "Close to the main highway, road was easily accessible. saw a few other people camping a couple miles away. tons of spots!!"

    9. Reynolds Creek Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Young, AZ
    19 miles

    "Great creek side camping with lots of sycamore shade trees. Wild turkeys are plentiful through here."

    "Different options right near hear, but overall secluded. Forest road 410 has a few sites. Deer, elk, rabbits, birds, plenty of fun little spiders everywhere."

    10. Stewart's Camp

    1 Review
    Tonto National Forest, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 225-5200

    $8 / night

    "There's no cell service which makes this place a perfect place to just get away without having to go forever away from the valley. Hunting and off roading available."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Tonto Basin, AZ

175 Photos of 98 Tonto Basin Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tonto Basin, AZ

316 Reviews of 98 Tonto Basin Campgrounds

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 2, 2024

    Schoolhouse Point Dispersed

    Free Lakeside camping

    Pretty, dispersed camping near schoolhouse Point in Roosevelt lake. On the road down to the state campground there are two dispersed camping areas on the left easily visible on the left side, (the gps point may not be accurate, I made it after I left) if you pass both there's an easy turn around at the boat ramp even for big rigs. Some dips coming off the paved road but very easy access overall, might be tight for really big rigs. Probably 20+ sites at each of the two pull offs, most have fire rings and decent shade. Couple minutes drive to the boat ramp at schoolhouse Point which has bathrooms, dumpsters, and both drive in and walk-in lake access. Currently (as of 3/24) no potable water even at the paid campground at the end of the road, you can either pump from the lake if you have a filter or Tonto national monument about 10min up the road has a water spigot before the pay gate. 14 day limit per usual for national forests but a really lovely spot to call home for a while! Lots of great hiking nearby as well as swimming and boating on the lake

  • Nolan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 9, 2019

    Bear Canyon Lake and Camping Area

    Bear Canyon

    Bear Canyon campground and lake located off AZ260 north east of payson. Near Woods Canyon lake(larger and more accessible), and Knoll lake(smaller than Bear Canyon)

    Bear Canyon campground is easily accessible and free. No reservations. No water/electric hookups. No picnic tables. No trash service-pack it in, pack it out. It will fill up on weekends during the summer as the weather is so temperate. We came up on a weekday and stayed to the beginning of the weekend and it wasn’t too crowded.

    Pros: The weather was amazing. High of 75-78 in the day and high 40’s at night. There was a constant breeze which kept it cool and fresh feeling. The lake is a short hike(0.2 miles) from the trailhead. And provides good fishing from the shore. There is plenty of free firewood’s around; just bring a saw and splitting axe. Near the Rim and other lakes (Woods Canyon and Knoll). Pit toilets were a far walk depending on where you camped but they were clean.

    Cons: This entire area is very rocky! We have a pop up but I can’t imagine tent camping without an air mattress. Each campsite maybe has a fire pit and that’s it. Boats and Kayaks would be a real challenge to bring down and up as the trail is very steep, rocky, and loose.

    Overall, we were disappointed that we were unable to use our kayaks but the weather make up for it and it was a great, relaxing trip.

  • Harriet D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 16, 2023

    Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88

    Not great for tent campers!

    Beautiful area, but I would only recommend it for high clearance vehicles and people who are NOT tent camping. The ground is very rocky and we couldn't find a great place to get a tent staked down in the windy conditions, so we left. Minimal coverage from wind and sun or for bathroom use. 

    Keep in mind that AZ-88 is CLOSED to motor vehicles slightly after Tortilla Trailhead, so you cannot get to Roosevelt Lake easily from here. There are pit toilets at the road closure area and you can turn around easily there.

  • Nolan S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2019

    Mesquite Wash Dispersed

    Mesquite Wash/Sycamore Creek

    Mesquite Wash is located approximately 20 miles northeast of Fountain Hills, Arizona. Follow the Bee Line Highway, SR 87, a few miles past the Four Peaks turn off. Watch for the Mesquite Wash sign. The main area is on the west side of the highway and is used primarily by off road vehicles. The east side of the highway is quieter and has several pull offs available for dispersed camping.

    There are no facilities; no restrooms, hookups, or trash. Pack it in, pack it out. The best time to go is in the winter months but with the weather being pretty fair it’s not too bad. You can have a fire but it depends on fire danger for the day. Pretty much if it’s hot and or dry, you won’t be able to have a fire.

    It is free and first come first serve, although there are plenty of spots to go around!

    All that being said, this is one of the most beautiful spots in the Sonoran desert! There are so many amazing views! Great for hiking or off roading.

    Side note: Please clean up after yourself! Forest Service has put so many restrictions on this area because people leave their trash out there.

  • Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2021

    Bear Willow Road Dispersed Camping

    Highly Used Dispersed Camping

    Dispersed camping off dirt roads. Highly Used but still space for privacy. Fire restrictions in the summer. No cell service. Some groups were loud and some vehicle traffic throughout the night. Sites are not numbered, just camp near the road. Check out Woods Canyon Lake on the way in!

  • Shari G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2021

    Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    Quiet, Gorgeous, Tons of Hiking!

    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. The unpaved road leads to multiple pull-offs and side roads where you can find the perfect spot to tuck away and camp for as long as you like.  Embrace the sun and bring your solar panels and plenty of cold drinks -- you'll be rewarded with amazing sunrises and sunsets and all the peace and quiet you can stand.  You may get lucky and find some partial shade under a Palo Verde, too.

    Though adjacent to Tonto National Forest and the Superstition Mountains Wilderness Area, the camping along Peralta Rd. is on Arizona State Lands. Use of this land, for any reason or purpose, requires a special individual permit. These annual permits are available online, https://asld.secure.force.com/recreationalpermit/ and cost $20 (plus $1 online processing fee). The permit is good for 1 year (deal of the century!) and allows access to any other Arizona State Lands where a permit is required. 

    While there are no services available at any of the camping spots, water, gas, or groceries are a short drive back into town. The hiking, and biking opportunities are amazing right around camp via the numerous and unlabeled OHV trails, or a short drive to the Peralta Canyon trailhead. This Forest Service parking area requires either a Tonto Pass, or Interagency Pass, or$10 day pass (available through a self-pay kiosk) serves as the start of many trails that will lead you into the gorgeous Superstition Mountains. Both the road, parking areas and trails are super busy on the weekends, so plan accordingly. During the popular hiking months, Forest Service Volunteers will regulate the parking area, so don't think that you'll get away without buying a pass. The ticket is more expensive.

  • Ariel & John W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 12, 2020

    Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt

    Great boondocking on Roosevelt Lake

    One of our all-time favorite boondocking spots. There are many forests roads off 188 on the southern shore of Lake Roosevelt where dispersed camping is allowed. Some have spectacular views of the lake but are high up and difficult to get to. We found the most easily accesible dispersed camping off Forest Rd 83 between the national monument and little town of Roosevelt. There are large level sites here right off the forest road. As you go further up the forest road, sites get smaller but more private.

    This is all working open range with lots of stock. We woke up many mornings to cattle rooting through our stuff and one morning to a real roundup with cowboys on horses. Amazing. There are lots if Saguaro and jumping Cholla cactus around as well as rattlers and scorpions so be alert.

    We stayed nearly three weeks here and will go back. Lots to do around and across the lake.

    No amenities but there is a dumpster at the head of FS83. Otherwise nearest towns are Punkin Center to the west and Roosevelt to the east, Globe being the nearest large town about 40 min away.

    Note there is also dispersed camping off 88 along the Salt River, also worth taking s look. No cell service along 88, no amenities and roads get much more steep and difficult.

  • J
    Jul. 21, 2022

    FS 609 - Dispersed Camping

    Perfect Getaway

    I was very skeptical about visiting this campsite at first, because I felt the information that I could find online was minimal. After visiting, however, I would definitely recommend this campsite to anyone. It was spacious enough to spread out from other campers. It was lovely to be right in the middle of the forest. I'd recommend driving further in to be away from the noise of the highway. I saw some reviews saying the gate was closed, but it was open when we were there in July 2022. Important things to note: This campground is located in the Coconino National Forest, please follow their rules and fire restrictions. No reservations are necessary for this campground. We found service to be a little spotty, but not impossible. Dogs are allowed. The turn in was pretty subtle, so definitely keep an eye out for it and use Google Maps over Apple Maps, because Apple Maps has no idea where this site is! All in all, I would visit again!

  • Gillian C.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2021

    West Clear Creek Dispersed Camping

    Pretty Dispersed Camping

    Standard dispersed camping along many off-road trails. Quiet and clean with no amenities. Fire restrictions in the summer. The West Clear Creek trailhead is nearby, so light vehicle trafiic for the trail. Tons of available spaces with privacy. No cell service.

Guide to Tonto Basin

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tonto Basin, Arizona, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities. This area offers numerous spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Outdoor Activities While Free Camping Near Tonto Basin

  • Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails near Reynolds Creek Dispersed, where you can explore the natural beauty and spot local wildlife like deer and elk.
  • If you're into off-roading, the Mesquite Wash Dispersed area is popular for its rugged terrain and scenic views, perfect for adventurous spirits.
  • Fishing is a highlight at Bermuda Flat Recreation Site, where you can cast your line and enjoy a peaceful day by the water.

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • Enjoy the serenity of Box Bar Road Dispersed, where you can find secluded spots near the river, ideal for a quiet getaway.
  • The Apache Trail North Camp offers a unique camping experience with stunning views and the opportunity to explore the historic Apache Trail.
  • For a more social atmosphere, Sycamore Creek Recreation Area features well-spaced sites that allow for interaction with fellow campers while still providing privacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Tonto Basin near Roosevelt Lake?

The southern shore of Roosevelt Lake offers excellent dispersed camping opportunities. Schoolhouse Point Dispersed is a popular spot with easy access - look for two clearly visible camping areas on the left side of the road leading to the state campground. Another top choice is Tonto National Forest Dispersed Camping at Lake Roosevelt, where many forest roads off Highway 188 provide spectacular lake views. Some sites are high up with amazing vistas but require more challenging access, while others offer easier lakeside camping. These areas are free but remember to practice Leave No Trace principles.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Tonto Basin?

Dispersed camping in Tonto Basin is generally permitted for up to 14 days within any 30-day period. All camping must be at least 100 feet from water sources and 150 feet from roadways. Camp only in previously used sites to minimize environmental impact. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping requires a permit and gate code for access. Fire restrictions frequently occur during summer months, so always check current regulations before your trip. Pack out all trash as there's no garbage service. Some areas within Tonto Basin may be on Arizona State Trust Land, which requires a separate recreational permit. Always verify current regulations with Tonto National Forest before your visit.

Is 4WD required to access dispersed camping areas in Tonto Basin?

Four-wheel drive requirements vary by specific location in Tonto Basin. Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88 is only recommended for high-clearance vehicles due to rocky terrain. Similarly, some of the best views at Mesquite Wash Dispersed campground may require higher clearance to access. While many main roads are accessible with standard vehicles during dry conditions, unpaved forest roads can deteriorate quickly after rain. For the most accessible dispersed camping, stick to established sites along main forest roads. Always check recent conditions before heading out, especially during monsoon season when washouts can occur.

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