Dispersed camping options abound near Willcox, Arizona, where the Chiricahua Mountains meet high desert plains at 4,167 feet elevation. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-60°F while summer days regularly exceed 100°F, dropping to the 70s at night. Many sites offer minimal facilities but provide accessible camping within 20 minutes of town.
What to do
Bird watching at Cochise Lake Wildlife Viewing Area Dispersed: Catch thousands of sandhill cranes from mid-October through March. "Watching them take flight at daybreak is absolutely breathtaking. Many return around 1 p.m., and sunset brings another spectacular show," notes Wade N., who stayed at Cochise Lake Wildlife Viewing Area Dispersed.
Rock climbing at Happy Camp: Scramble up boulder formations and explore historic areas. "There is endless rocks to explore and climb. It will keep your attention for days," reports Taylor, who camped at Happy Camp Trail. The site provides multiple elevation points with views across the valley floor.
Local dining in Willcox: Several campers recommend trying the on-site restaurant at Willcox-Cochise KOA. "Cafe has a full menu and it was clean and well run," says James P., who appreciated the convenience after a day of outdoor activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites at Willcox-Cochise KOA: Full-hookup camping with room to spread out. "The sites are super roomy. Staff is very friendly. I10 is noisy but really didn't mind that at all being tired from our travels," notes Tonya B., who stayed at Willcox-Cochise KOA.
Internet connectivity at Grande Vista RV Park: Reliable service for remote workers. "I have Verizon and management stated Verizon is the best in this small town and look at my screen shot, it's no joke. This is on top of their 2 free wifi access they provide which are already fast," reports C.W., who was impressed with the connectivity at Grande Vista RV Park.
Open desert solitude at Playa Dispersed Campsite: Free camping with minimal crowds. "March 6th 2024 camped here. Got here about 6 PM and the lagoon was filled with cranes. Got amazing pictures of them. In the morning the lagoon was empty," shares Ken, describing his wildlife photography experience.
What you should know
Highway noise affects some sites: Several campgrounds sit near Interstate 10. "Very well maintained with decent size sites and ample area to run your dogs. I would give this 5 stars if not for Highway noise," Mary F. explains about her stay.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Pack everything needed including water. "This is BLM so the camping is FREE. There is however a private property further up the dirt road (property is gated and fenced off). Spots are adequate for tents, smaller RVs or trailers," advises Laura M. about Playa Dispersed Campsite.
Weather considerations: Temperature swings can be extreme. "It's mid May and it felt like the temperatures dropped into the high 40s and hover there until about 6:30 AM. Once the sun takes over the mountain, the heat skyrocket and you'll want to be getting packed up pretty quick," James D. cautions about camping at Willcox Lagoon.
Tips for camping with families
Cattlerest RV Park offers recreational options: Activities for kids and adults alike. "The saloon is not only a bar but has ton of activities such as pool, corn hole, shuffle bored, line dancing, music and more," reports Priscilla, who enjoyed her stay at Cattlerest RV Park and Saloon.
Some campgrounds restrict children: Check policies before booking. "I was told they accepted children and then told my kids were not welcome. Very disappointed," warns Savannah about Fort Willcox RV Park, highlighting the importance of verifying family policies.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bird migrations create educational experiences. "I had the pleasure of staying at this resort and watching thousands of sandhill cranes during my visit. The kids were absolutely fascinated," shares a parent who visited during winter migration season.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at dispersed sites: Large rigs have limited options at some free camping areas. "After enduring the 3 mile washboard road and pulling through the last cattle guard you'll find it was well worth the journey. That's if you have a small to medium rig because for the big rigs their are only a couple sites," advises George K. about camping at Happy Camp Trail.
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Willcox vary in amenities: While most permit pets, facilities differ significantly. "Tent camping spots are in front of the park, where the truck wash across the street can be heard prevalently. Cats everywhere are cute and sweet but I'm pretty sure they use the tent spots as their litter box," notes Anna S. about Lifestyle RV Resort & Fitness Center.
Road conditions affect accessibility: Some pet-friendly camping requires navigating rough terrain. "Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful," explains Laura M. regarding access to dispersed camping with pets.
