Best Dispersed Camping near Tucson, AZ

Dispersed camping areas surround Tucson, Arizona, offering free primitive sites on public lands. Popular locations include Snyder Hill BLM, Redington Pass, Cactus Forest, and Ironwood Forest National Monument. These sites operate on a 14-day stay limit and provide no amenities. Snyder Hill BLM, located just off Ajo Highway, offers convenient access to Saguaro National Park West. According to camper Carol W., "The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four-legged camper," though entrance roads can be rough with multiple dips.

Road conditions vary significantly between sites. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for most areas, with 4WD necessary for Redington Pass and remote sections of Cactus Forest. As one camper noted, "The road is rough but if you don't mind driving slow over the holes and bumps then no big deal." Access roads to Snyder Hill feature steep entrances that should be scouted before bringing in larger rigs. Arriving during daylight hours is strongly advised for all sites.

These areas provide no water, toilets, or trash service. All waste must be packed out. Cell service is generally good near Snyder Hill and Pipeline Road but diminishes in more remote locations. Fire restrictions frequently apply; always check current BLM fire regulations before camping. When fires are permitted, clear a minimum 10-foot radius around any fire ring due to dry vegetation. Several campers report target shooting activity in some areas, particularly Cactus Forest. Arizona State Trust Lands adjacent to BLM areas require a separate $20 annual permit for camping. Summer temperatures can be extreme; winter and spring offer more comfortable camping conditions.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Tucson, Arizona (42)

    1. Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area

    33 Reviews
    Cortaro, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Bureau of Land Management site. 14 day limit. Easy access and we were able to park our 42 ft motor home easily. The area is quiet with trails and lots of area to walk your four legged camper!"

    "This BLM property, right off the Ajo highway near Tucson, is extremely convenient for a short or extended stay. Anyone can stay up to 14 nights, free of charge. "

    2. Redington Pass - Dispersed Camping

    15 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    22 miles
    Website

    "It’s just past the Tanque Verde Falls trailhead parking lot. Beautiful views and lots of RVs around. Off-road route can be bumpy but worth it. Car camping OK."

    "We brought our small tow-behind popup camper up the winding road until we reached the information pull-off, and decided to unhitch there and continue up the road in search of an empty spot with just our"

    3. BLM off of W Valencia Rd | Wild Camping

    3 Reviews
    Tucson, AZ
    12 miles

    "Turn north on the dirt road just west of the casino and follow the power lines north up a coupe hundred yards and you will see the camping area just off your right."

    "Very flat, can get a size RV in here. Only reason I’m giving 4 stars is there are a few people you can tell live here. Therefore, a little noisy with people coming in/out all day. No gate."

    4. Mount Bigelow Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Willow Canyon, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 388-8300

    "Just make sure you have 4wd and go all the way to the back"

    "Great way to escape the summer heat of Tucson! Bring your hats and gloves!"

    5. BLM Ironwood Forest National Monument - Reservation Road Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Plenty of easy dirt roads that we were able to take our ebikes on. Good sites…but watch for rain in the forecast…the desert floor turns to mush and you might find yourself stuck until it dries out."

    "Spent a night here, the site was great if you’re looking for a mostly flat area to camp. There’s a herd of bulls / cows that graze in the area."

    6. Reddington Pass Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Saguaro National Park, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 749-8700

    "It’s a fun trail if you like a challenge of off roading. I wouldn’t recommend larger trailers or RVs to travel too far up the trail, we’ve seen them get stuck trying to turn around."

    "40 mile scenic drive on a 4x4 road, dispersed camping along the way. Extremely popular view to park off the road in the saguaros."

    7. Cactus Forest Dispersed

    33 Reviews
    Marana, AZ
    37 miles
    Website

    "Classic BLM-style camping, meaning no amenities, dispersed, and pack out all waste.

    This campground’s name is quite apt; it is indeed a cactus forest, and a beautiful one at that."

    "This area is about 30 minutes away from Rilloto for supplies. Picacho Peak State park is 20 minutes away for hiking. Overall, it is a quiet area with beautiful views."

    8. Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area - Las Cienegas National Conservation Area

    15 Reviews
    Sonoita, AZ
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 258-7200

    "Dispersed camping. No amenities. The spots at the cieneguita camp are full Everytime we have camped at the preserve but there is plenty of open area to pick a spot."

    "I was traveling from Tucson to Sonoita and had myself a nice overnight. I saw one other camper here, but never heard them. Pulled down the road then through the gate and went about a mile."

    9. The Lake - Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Vail, AZ
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (520) 378-0311

    "This was the perfect place to have my first dispersed camping experience."

    10. Charouleau Gap Trailhead Camp

    3 Reviews
    Catalina, AZ
    25 miles

    "Several spots off a dirt road that parallels the main road here. Accessed relatively easily (slowly) in my 23 Ft Class C. Some road noise."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Tucson, AZ

223 Reviews of 42 Tucson Campgrounds



Guide to Tucson

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Tucson, Arizona, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Tucson, Arizona

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Cieneguita

  • The Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area is known for its isolation and well-spaced campsites, making it a peaceful retreat away from highway noise.
  • Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse fauna, including Coues deer and pronghorns, often spotted around the Cieneguita Dispersed Camping Area.
  • With no permit required and free access, this area is perfect for spontaneous trips, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature without the hassle of reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Tucson, AZ is Snyder Hill BLM Camping Area with a 3.3-star rating from 33 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 42 dispersed camping locations near Tucson, AZ, with real photos and reviews from campers.