The dispersed campsites along Pinery Canyon Road make an excellent home base for exploring Chiricahua National Monument. Small area right off the road. Nearest Gas 3.5 miles away. Please select a reason for flagging this item: 2023 Campendium Inc. All rights reserved. She was twitching and freaking out to the point that I called an emergency vet and almost took her in!! Just shoot me a line: jake@campnado.com, See Also: My Favorite Camping Gear for 2022, Best Free Campsites Near Grand Canyon National Park, dispersed camping in Coronado National Forest, blacktop boondocking in a store parking lot, New Mexicos Best Free Dispersed Campsites. Not only with other recreationalists, but also with work vehicles driving to and from the areas still active mines. As per the other reviews, it was crowded, even on a rainy Sunday evening. This is a good location for boondocking in an RV or trailer. APACHE-SITGREAVES AZ . This lake is set among sun-painted canyon walls, which form scenic backdrops to the lake itself. We're available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Arizona time. If possible, sending a scout vehicle in first is a good idea. We highly recommend arriving during daylight so you can see the washes. Campendium is an Amazon associate site and earns from qualifying purchases. Poll Results: Biggest Boondocking Pet Peeve? Camping is only allowed at designated campsites in Bald Eagle State Forest. If youre looking for free camping in nearby states, our guide to finding free campsites will help you find the best free camping near you anywhere in the United States. An example is Twin Arrows Casino Resort near Flagstaff. From Apache Junction: Drive north on State Hwy. The road is usually in decent condition and rangers visit the area often. The jeeps and dirt bikes rev their engines at all hours of the night. The area is enclosed in barbed wire fence. Just note that its only accessible from late spring to late fall due to its high elevation. Fair amount of trash around which is disappointing. Please always follow the7 Leave No Trace principles(especially packing out all your trash,properly disposing of human waste, respecting campfire bans, and only using previously-used campsites) when dispersed camping in Arizona. It costs just $15 per night. Trash everywhere, actually smelled like urine, and some peopl The lake is known for its trout fishing, with rainbow, cutthroat, brook and Apache being the most sought-after species. We've never boondocked with such close neighbors as the busyness and limited space here requires; I think that plus the bad weather contributed to a community dynamic that we really enjoyed. The western end of the trail accesses a popular target shooting area along Desert Peak Mountain. Last but not least on our list of the best dispersed camping in Arizona is Harshaw Road. Tonto National Monumentprotects two well-preserved prehistoric cliff dwellings and diverse artifacts. Many sites are spacious enough and the access road is smooth enough for large RVs and trailers. Being 200 ft away from the trail and campsite provides you privacy and is good backcountry etiquette. Its very accessible for small RVs, like [read more], Interested in living full-time in a truck camper and exploring North, Central, and South America? The further you drive in, the more likely you are to find a private campsite. For such a beautiful area, its relatively uncrowded here. (Not sure to rate noise 1 for bad/noisy or 5 for loud?) It's called "dispersed camping" just make sure you don't drive off a forest road and if you do to set up camp, the car can't go more than 300 ft off the forest road. Good proximity to town, good views of Superstition Mountains. Heavy rains (3 inches in 24 hours) caused significant pooling in the lower areas of the campground which is, as reported, really just an extra-large horse-trail trailhead. Free camping (dispersed) is allowed on most national forest lands except in highly developed areas - such as trailheads, campgrounds and picnic sites - and in some of our most visited places. Here are a few of the most important things to do: Visit the national forest or BLM website for the public land youre visiting to read up on each areas specific dispersed camping rules and regulations. 87/Beeline Hwy. Drops up to 200 feet are common, so keep children and pets close. And, dont forget to climb up the nearby Grandview Lookout Tower (you can also use this tower as a destination on Google Maps to find the dispersed campsites). This free dispersed camping area isnt very far from Flagstaff (or Sedona) as the crow flies, but its quite a trek to reach in a vehicle. You can also turn off on several other roads (such as Forest Road 307) to access even more campsites. It was kind of crowded, but thats to be expected at this time of year in AZ. Each winter, several BLM-managed Long Term Visitor Areas (LTVAs) in Arizona offer long-term boondocking for just $180 for September 15th to April 15th. It was kind of crowded, but thats to be expected at this time of year in AZ. scattered around the campsite and other trash to include a large metal awning. and a decent price on diesel, especially with any Kroger card (Fred Meyer, Smiths, etc.). Friends were able to work from their RV with a WeBoost. We have a class b van and did ok with deft maneuvering. Gross, I know!! The expansive grounds are interesting and free to walk. Luckily, the state has literally hundreds of others, most located on public lands. Here are 11 of my favorite places for free dispersed camping in Arizona to help you find the perfect campsite for your next trip. Located within the Tonto Basin of the Upper Sonoran Desert, this National Park Service site provides opportunities to experience a thriving culture deeply rooted in its natural setting, while encouraging our own connections to our environment. We were in the area over this past weekend and primitave camped east of Tortilla Flats. Apache Trail Dispersed Camping Tonto National Forest Write a Review Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85119 480-610-3300 Official Website GPS: 33.4864, -111.4675 Add Photos View 23 Photos Overview Q&A Cell Service Reviews (9) Amenities Overview of Apache Trail Dispersed Camping The location is great! Dont forget to check it out in addition to Chiricahua National Monument. Call the North Kaibab Ranger District for more information: (928) 660-2443, Get Directions to Saddle Mountain Overlook. Once you get in there are many roads that arent as terrible that snake ar black river az dispersed campingfast growing firewood trees australia black river az dispersed camping Men university of virginia track and field coaches Strong winds are common. Bumpy road on the way in. 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Plus, its just a short walk into Tortilla Flat to get an ice cream. Because of the popularity of the Mogollon Rim, many of the areas dispersed campsites are actually designated. Lightning storms here are extremely scary (and not at all uncommon). We were very close to the road though, so there was a fair amount of traffic noise. Tortilla Flats Campground - Apache Junction, Arizona Campers awake to a scenic backdrop of rugged bluffs, saguaro cactus and desert skies. With so many options to choose from, this is one of the most pocket-friendly ways to spend some time with . We loved the Superstition Mountain Museum! With North Americas Signup for Roadpass Pro to get premium access to all of these great road travel apps. Nearby are views of mountains with abundant wildlife. If you can tough out the crowds for a night or two, then youre in for a real treat. The numerous OHV trails in the area makes for some road noise and the likelihood of dust. The dispersed campsites on Peralta Road are on Arizona State Trust Land. Not satisfied with the free campsites on my list? The best campsites are located near a small stream about 5 miles after turning onto Pinery Canyon Road from Highway 181. Pinery Canyon Road is part of Coronado National Forest. Nearly always there would be "room for one more" if you just need a place to overnight and aren't too picky. This location provided a reliable water source and other resources in an otherwise harsh landscape. Thats not to mention the abundance of border patrol vehicles which drive through the area at all hours, including the middle of the night. Be the first to add a video for Hackamore Road Dispersed Camping! The best campsites along the rim fill up fast and get crowded. "Dispersed camping," as it's called, is legal camping in undeveloped campsites, often just off of forest access roads. Harshaw Road is part of Coronado National Forest. East of Phoenix, Arizona, is the historic Apache Trail which travels through the Superstition Mountains region. The closest towns are 30+mins away, but the drive to Carlsbad Caverns was worth it for the scenery and experience. Not homeless (though they may well have looked it; they played HARD here.) We were there to check out the area and bike some of the trails behind the dispersed camping as we had to bike. We once camped near Taos, New Mexico, beside an old homestead which was very picturesque. Expect minor washboarding, but nothing too serious. Mike, Thanks for the write up. Snakes, tarantulas, and other critters are common here so watch your step and keep dogs close. Youre out relaxing and enjoying your favorite, secluded spot with your family and then it happensTwo trucks pulling toy haulers stop [read more]. The road in is very rutted and bumpy. While the road noise wasn't bad, someone ran their generator all through the night. USFS (United States Forest Service) allows dispersed camping in all six of its Arizona national forests. Although not as popular as other lakes located near Phoenix, the reservoir and surrounding area is now a major center for fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and general vacationing. Be the first to add a review to the Apache Trail Dispersed Camping. They will be here patrolling overnight for a few weeks to clean things up as complaints have mounted. We cover all types of truck campers here at Truck Camper Adventure. are located west of Highway 83 along Gardner Canyon Road as it winds its way towards Gardner Canyon and the Gardner Trail. Arizona is a wonderful place to explore with countless free camping opportunities. One thing very frustrating was the number of trucks and recreation vehicles speeding through the roads at all hours of the day and night. Home. Past the lakes, the original route continues in more traditional fashion to the former copper mining town of Globe , but it is the western half which is the most scenic and well-known, however caution is required when driving and it is not recommended for large RVs or caravans. In the winter through early spring, snow makes the road impassable. Another favorite of mine (also with views of the Grand Canyon) is the area near Marble Viewpoint. If you are into mud and rough, rutted roads, you will be in pig heaven here!! Wanderland Travelers would stay here again. We were able to get a spot in the back along the fence with a nice view, so we were pleasantly surprised at the feeling of privacy we had. Hackamore Rd is not maintained and is basically a dirt bike track. The spacious, flat campsites here are easily accessed by all rigs, so they can fill up with RV boondockers. Terms of Use, Three Mile Wash Shoreline Area- Apache Trail, Tonto National Forest- Tonto Basin Ranger District. Schnebly Hill Road is popular so its often busy and noisy. Although these are the best spots (for views, at least), remember to be alert. The overlook (a small turnaround area) gets plenty of visitors during the daytime, but not many stick around to camp, at least in my experience. Edge of the World is hands down one of the most amazing places to camp in Arizona, free or paid. Call the Douglas Ranger District for more information: (520) 388-8436. The campsites along Crystal Hill Road are another good bet. The views are spectacular, its too bad this area is being abused. Another one of my favorite places to camp on the Mogollon Rim is actually south of Highway 260 on Old Rim Road (FR 171), known as FR 171 Campground. Find these campsites by setting Google Maps to Saddle Mountain Overlook. Follow the gravel access road for roughly 14 miles from where it turns off Highway 67 near the North Rim Country Store (about 6 miles north of the national parks North Entrance). At about 7 miles in, the road is much rougher. Once you reach Edge of the World itself, youll find plenty of space to spread out in the forest with the best spots located on the rim of a canyon overlooking the beautiful Red Rock Wilderness. Jump to the free campsite you want to know more about: Or, browse our Arizona dispersed camping map to find a dispersed campsite near you. FYI No facilities. Mogollon Rim is just two hours from Phoenix so it gets very busy. Neither one is developed. Look at a map, know before you go. The 23-mile dirt access road is rough and windy. The road is quite busy with ATV and OHV traffic which means campsites can get dusty. Learn more: Boondocking 101, Campendium users haven't asked any questions about Apache Trail Dispersed Camping, I will preface this by saying that we didnt camp here, and thank goodness for that. OHV riding is allowed, so theres a lot of road noise depending on where you camp. White Mountains Links . For campground inquiries, please call: 928-735-7313. If youre lucky enough to score one of these, then youre in for a real treat sunrise and sunset against the canyon walls is indescribably beautiful. It rained so the area was very muddy. Turn right onto State Hwy. The paved road then follows meandering Harshaw Creek through a sycamore-shaded canyon until crossing over into Coronado National Forest. Not down in this deep canyon, though you will find AT&T 3G service further east near the Apache Lake Marina and AT&T 4G service at the end of the trail at Roosevelt Lake. Lots of hiking trails are located nearby (Wave Cave Trail is a short, sweet, and popular option). The North Kaibab Ranger District offers countless dispersed camping opportunities. It is convenient to the Maverick ATV Trail. The BLM access road is a bit bumpy, but doable in all vehicles. The campground is very close to the town of Apache Junction, so it isnt far to go for propane or groceries. Class A busses probably wouldn't make it. All rights reserved. FWIW? This is my first review on this website and unfortunately it is going to be an extremely negative one because it was an extremely negative experience. ), its only open from October 1 to March 31. For example, there is ample BLM camping on Palm Canyon Road before it crosses into the wildlife refuge. If you use your a/c great, windows open, youll be eating dust with the traffic! Reservations and permits are required and can be made online or over the phone. In any manner or place whereby any person or property is exposed to injury or damage as a result of such discharge (36CFR 261.10d) With any tracer bullet or incendiary ammunition (36CFR 261.5b) Choose a remote area with an earthen backdrop. 9 tenths of a mile past mile marker 202 on st. rt. The views from the end of the road are what make Edge of the World home to arguably the best free camping in Arizona. Overview of Tower Road Designated Dispersed Campsite 64. And, if you still have questions, Im here to help. La Posa LTVA and Midland LTVA are located near Quartzsite while Imperial Dam LTVA is located near Yuma. Three Mile Wash Shoreline Area, located3 miles south of Roosevelt Dam on the south shoreline of Apache Lake, offers shoreline dispersed camping. Around 42% of Arizona is made up of public lands like national forests and BLM land, so its not surprising there are literally hundreds of dispersed camping and boondocking opportunities throughout the state. Its very close to the geologic wonders of Chiricahua National Monument. Overall it seems there is a good bit of turnover. The existing Apache Trail in Arizona is a 120 mile circle route through the Superstition Mountains. This boondock site is sandy gravel with dips and hills, and no marked sites; you just park wherever. While were were camped we were fortunate to have a full moon which bathed the canyon in an eerie yet spectacular glow during the night. * RVs and trailers should avoid traveling beyond this point. Although it gets busy, visitors willing to brave the rough road can certainly snag quiet and relatively private sites. Southeastern Utahs Valley of the Gods is a great place to boondock. There are fire rings, but we ended up making our own because someone had left tons of trash laying around (shame). Just make sure you take Woody Mountain Road and youll arrive at the correct spot. Some areas allow camping in designated sites . Turn right onto State Hwy. Get it with Truck Camper Adventure's weekly newsletter. Plenty of campsites along the access road accommodate RVs and trailers, but those near the overlook are best for passenger vehicles only (high-clearance and/or four-wheel is beneficial, but not a must). I have a very low clearance van, if I can make it then I almost guarantee you can. black river az dispersed camping. Campendium is an Amazon associate site and earns from qualifying purchases. Even though it was very busy, we thought there were at least three different places we could have stayed in our 33' motorhome. Just know that theres not much room to turn around at the end of the road. Rather than list them all, Ive narrowed down your options to just 11 of the very best. Great hiking. Tennis Has Met Its Match: Play Pickleball at These 45 RV Campgrounds, 18 Campgrounds Where You Can Stay Cool This Summer. The ground is packed dirt, very unlevel and with many washes BUT the views are breathtaking and lush desert trails are easily accessible. Have you written a blog post about Hackamore Road Dispersed Camping? The wind can get annoying if you dont have an adequate wind block. The views of the Colorado River from the cliffs above are hard to beat. Would not recommend for rigs over 24ft. Description; Amenities; Details; Learn more: Boondocking 101 The road itself is a little bumpy but not horrible. Not homeless (though they may well have looked it; they played HARD here.) Kofa National Wildlife Refuge is a unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The red rock canyon views from the overlook are amazing. Perform an online search using the name of the national forest combined with "dispersed camping" to learn more. Download from Quite a few people living in mini vans but I was not bothered. more. The US Army cut this pass to facilitate rapid movement between Fort Bowie and the San Pedro Valley in an effort to quell the Chiricahua Apache in the late 19th century. But you have the homeless camping there with their kids swinging from the trees, very trashy area and deep holes and with this last storm there was water everywhere. Arizona Few camping experiences are more exhilarating than sleeping under the stars. The road has several large holes and dips along the trail, when we arrived and parked I saw large pieces of broken tiles (possibly roof tiles?) However, not all campsites in the Phoenix area are created equal so you'll want to come prepared with an idea of where you'll camp. The exception is near the borders of the park, just off Highway 95. Those who are willing to forgo a few luxuries will find extra solitude and scarcely touched wilderness in our national forests, where you can often find free camping. I only stealth camp when I cant find anywhere else to stay, although many other campers use this method on a regular or even nightly basis. Bring an awning or canopy for shade. There is some sort of mine on the other side of the road; they start work well before sunrise at 5am. Hackamore Rd is not maintained and is basically a dirt bike track. Try one of these campgrounds located nearby, AZ Camp Guide 2023 All Rights Reserved. Just of AZ 60, this park is a perfect size and caters to both RV Owners & Mobile home owners there for a longer Stay. Call the Arizona State Land Department for more information: (602) 364-2753, For more information on the Superstition Wilderness, call the Mesa Ranger District of Tonto National Forest: (480) 610-3300. The beautiful views and quiet forest atmosphere always make me happy I stopped here for a night. Visitor Center/Park Store Monday-Sunday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. (starting Nov. 1) (Summer hours may vary) Thanksgiving - 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. Christmas Eve - 6 a.m. - 2 p.m. Christmas Day - closed Park Entrance Fee Per Vehicle (1-4 Adults): $10 Campfires are prohibited from March 1 - May 25 without authorization from the District Forester. Its also very windy here. The road into this huge maze is extremely rutted with massive pits and you will have to take a perfect line in once you pass the fenced building on your left. For Sale: 2020 Rugged Mountain Granite 11RL Truck Camper ($49,900), 5-Star Boondocking: Utahs Valley of the Gods, Kid and Gypsy Enjoy Truck Camper Life Abroad. Located within the Tonto National Forest, the Apache Trail is also one of Arizonas most scenic drives and has been designated a USFS Scenic Byway. Roosevelt Lake is among the most spectacular natural wonders in the Grand Canyon State - but the drive to get there is almost, if not equally, as beautiful. Located a little over an hour south of Tucson and just 15 minutes from Patagonia, Harshaw Road (sometimes called Harshaw Creek Road) is the ideal location for those exploring southern Arizona near the Mexican border. Chase P. recommends March 31, 2022 Apache Park and Trail Great Views, Great Location! Most campsites are spacious and flat, although the access roads can be quite rough. Although youll see good camping spots almost immediately, its important to continue down the dirt road until you pass the sign for Kaibab National Forest (just past the first cattle guard). Camp at Saddle Mountain Overlook for the Grand Canyon views. It has equally good views, although the road in is rougher and narrower. Its also just a little over a mile from Walmart. Consistently busy area with campers and horse trailers. black river az dispersed camping; February 26, 2023 . Check your inbox or spam folder now to confirm your subscription.