Free dispersed camping at Sheeps Bridge requires serious preparation before leaving the pavement. The route runs roughly 40 miles through open desert, and reviewers consistently flag that a high-clearance 4WD vehicle is non-negotiable. One frequently used approach follows Seven Springs and Cave Creek Road to Bloody Basin Road, which connects to the site and then back out to I-17. Cell service disappears well before you arrive. Stock up on supplies beforehand, as there are no amenities along the way.
The Verde River is the first water source campers encounter, so arriving with enough water to last the trip is essential. The Sheep Bridge itself is a draw, and several reviewers confirm that hot springs exist north of the bridge, tucked behind vegetation and easy to miss on a first pass. A rope swing off the bridge adds another reason to linger. Conor C. describes the descent to the water as "kidney rockers on the way down," so airing down tires before that stretch is worth doing.
Camping spots are dispersed along the road approaching the bridge, with multiple pull-off areas to choose from. Not all are level or well-positioned, so some scouting is typical. Shade is limited across most of the area, with occasional cover from desert vegetation. The Catfish Point Picnic and Dispersed Camping Area and Horseshoe Campground sit further south along the Verde River corridor for those wanting nearby alternatives. Campers who give the route the respect it demands tend to stay more than one night.
Description
This is for SHEEPS Bridge BLM in Arizona There is a different listing on The Dyrt for SHEEP Bridge BLM in Utah
VERY rugged road to get to this campground. Please be advised if you have an RV or a low clearance vehicle.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSheeps Bridge BLM Area is located in Arizona near Carefree
Coordinates
34.090399636248 N
111.71093829324505 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Pets
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Sheeps Bridge BLM Area - Arizona needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 42 min from Prescott Valley, AZ
- 2 hrs 58 min from Phoenix, AZ
- 3 hrs 25 min from Flagstaff, AZ
- 4 hrs 45 min from Tucson, AZ



















