Best Dispersed Camping near Tortilla Flat, AZ

The Sonoran Desert around Tortilla Flat, Arizona has several free camping spots for those who don't mind going without amenities. Dispersed camping in the Tortilla Flat Recreation Area means bringing everything you need, as these sites have no water or toilets. When camping in Arizona National Forest land near Tortilla Flat, you'll need to stay at least 200 feet from water sources and roads. Many campers find spots in the undeveloped sections of the Tortilla Flat Area State Park, but remember the pack-in, pack-out rule applies everywhere. Most roads to good camping spots require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rainfall turns dirt roads muddy. The standard 14-day limit applies to all public lands around Tortilla Flat. Some people camp at Tortilla Flat City Park Campground, though it's just as basic as the other options. Stock up on supplies in Apache Junction, about 20 miles away, since you won't find services closer. Watch for rattlesnakes and scorpions, particularly during warmer months. Many campers use Tortilla Flat as a base for day trips, with the Salt River recreation areas just a short drive away. The desert roads can wash out quickly during monsoon season, so always check conditions before heading out. Following basic wilderness camping guidelines helps keep these areas open and pristine for everyone.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tortilla Flat, Arizona (55)

    1. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    11 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
    8 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
    11 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. Superstition Mountains -- Dispersed Sites along Hwy 88

    3 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    4 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"

    5. Horse Trails Boondock

    2 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    1 mile

    "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."

    6. Dispersed Site Near Tonto National Forest

    4 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    7 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."

    7. Apache Trail North Camp

    1 Review
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    1 mile

    8. Stewart's Camp

    1 Review
    Tonto National Forest, AZ
    8 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."

    9. Saguaro Cove

    2 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    "Takes a little 4 wheeling to get there or you can access it from the water.  Basic dispersed camping but gets a little warm during the summer months. "

    10. Old Corral

    2 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    4 miles
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Showing results 1-10 of 55 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tortilla Flat, AZ

171 Reviews of 55 Tortilla Flat Campgrounds



Guide to Tortilla Flat

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tortilla Flat, Arizona, where stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures await. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape into nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Dispersed campers should check out Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

  • Access to this area requires a permit, but the effort is worth it for the beautiful and clean camping spots just a couple of miles in.
  • A 4x4 vehicle is necessary to navigate the terrain, especially past the first two miles where the scenery becomes even more breathtaking.
  • Be prepared for some dust kicked up by off-highway vehicles (OHVs), as this area is popular for both camping and OHV activities.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Tortilla Flat, Arizona

  • Consider visiting Hackamore Road Dispersed for a more accessible option that is friendly for larger rigs and does not require a permit.
  • The road conditions can be rough, so having a vehicle with high clearance is advisable, especially if you want to explore deeper into the area.
  • Keep in mind that this location can get noisy due to nearby vehicle traffic, so plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.

Top activities while free camping near Tortilla Flat

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Tortilla Flat, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tortilla Flat, 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 Tortilla Flat, AZ?

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