Tent camping near Animas, New Mexico offers accessibility to southeastern Arizona's Coronado National Forest, where elevations range from 4,000 to 8,000 feet providing relief from desert heat. Most dispersed sites in this region sit along creek beds that come alive during monsoon season between July and September. Road conditions deteriorate significantly after rainfall, with many access routes requiring 8-10 miles of travel on unmaintained dirt roads.
What to do
Climbing opportunities: At Happy Camp Trail near Bowie, Arizona, the rock formations provide excellent climbing and scrambling options. "There are endless rocks to explore and climb. It will keep your attention for days," notes Taylor, who camped here during a road trip. The area also contains archaeological features worth exploring.
Waterfall hunting: Following seasonal rains, the creeks in West Turkey Creek Dispersed create small waterfalls and swimming holes. Jonathan E. shares, "The only con is that it is a bit out of the way, with 8-10 miles of unmaintained dirt road to get there. In my experience, the road was pretty washboard the whole way." The effort pays off with creek-side explorations.
Wildlife observation: Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the region. Tracy T. reported from West Turkey Creek: "The creek was flowing and quite a few animals at dawn and dusk. Not a lot of traffic, and a trail right up the road to hike or follow the creek."
What campers like
Privacy and isolation: The remote nature of these camping areas means you'll rarely encounter crowds. Jonathan E. describes West Turkey Creek as "quiet, isolated, beautiful, and serene. I didn't see anyone else here when I went and didn't hear/see any wildlife besides birds."
Natural water features: Seasonal creeks create appealing camping environments. At Sycamore Campground, Cole M. notes: "Nice, small campground with pit toilets, fire rings and bear boxes. Saw many deer and turkeys in the area. Plenty of shade available; unfortunately, only stagnant pools of water in the creek this time of year."
Night sky viewing: With minimal light pollution, the stargazing opportunities excel throughout the region. Holly W. mentions that near Herb Martyr Campground, "The night sky is unparalleled. The drive from the campground to other trailheads and other areas is fine."
What you should know
Road conditions: Most camping areas require navigating rough dirt roads. At Gila Lower Box Canyon, Dennis P. warns: "Three roads fork off Fuller Rd. (A027) toward the river... We went farther west and had a steep hike into the canyon. I didn't camp, but advise there are no facilities, amenities, or anyone to hold your hand."
Wildlife concerns: Free-range cattle and wild animals frequent many camping areas. Tony S. mentions at Happy Camp Trail: "Was a little busy and the bulls can get aggressive in your campsite." Similarly, at West Turkey Creek, campers report deer and wild turkey sightings regularly.
Communication limitations: Cell service varies significantly between camping areas. Jonathan E. notes about West Turkey Creek: "I also didn't have any cell reception (T-Mobile), which was fine by me!" In contrast, at Happy Camp Trail, Scott B. reports: "I had 3 solid bars of AT&T."
Tips for camping with families
Bear box availability: Certain established campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. Cole M. mentions that Sycamore Campground includes "pit toilets, fire rings and bear boxes," making it more suitable for families with young children who need secure food storage options.
Water access considerations: Creek levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting swimming opportunities. Monique R. notes about Sycamore Campground: "Campgrounds are next to a creek with a trailhead leading to a waterfall, couldn't ask for more for a free campsite."
Bathroom facilities: Most dispersed sites lack toilets, while established campgrounds offer basic facilities. At Camp Rucker in Coronado National Forest, campers have access to pit toilets and trash collection, though no drinking water is available.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: RV options are restricted primarily to smaller rigs at most locations. About Happy Camp Trail, George K. advises: "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."
Driving challenges: Approach roads often have tight turns and rocky sections. Laura M. reports about Happy Camp Trail: "Some sketchy parts of the road, rocky and narrow with some dips, but it can be done if you're careful."
Camping spot selection: Early arrival increases chances of securing suitable RV spots. Antony V. suggests about Happy Camp Trail: "This area has five to ten campsites suitable for small rigs (we pull a 17-ft trailer, wouldn't go much past 20ft)... As you continue along the road it gets worse and you'll need decent clearance."
