18 San Carlos Reservoir Boondocking Locations: Looking to boondock near San Carlos Reservoir? You’ve got a handful of solid spots where you can camp for free, well away from the usual crowds. Sharp Creek and the areas hugging the reservoir offer dispersed camping where you can plop down your rig or tent without shelling out for fees. It’s peaceful out there—just you, the desert, and maybe a few other campers in the distance.
There’s a blend of boondocking areas, some right by the water and others tucked into the forest nearby. Many folks also wander over to Ash Creek Canyon or find a nook along the Gila River if they’re after more solitude. These spots make it easy to fish, hike, and just soak up some nature without a lot of fuss.
Description And Information About This Location
San Carlos Reservoir sits on the Salt River in Arizona, surrounded by a mix of water, desert, and about 150 miles of shoreline. That’s a lot of room to spread out, whether you’re there to hike, swim, or just kick back by the water.
The terrain’s rugged and mostly desert, but you’ll spot some patches of grassland near the shore. There’s plenty of wildlife—mostly birds and smaller critters. You’ll see classic desert plants mixed with whatever’s thriving in or near the reservoir.
It’s not a national park, but it’s close to public lands managed by the Forest Service. Those lands stretch over roughly 400,000 acres across the region, so you can really wander if you want to. They’re great for boondocking and off-grid camping.
The geology’s what you’d expect: desert formations, mesas, and the Salt River system, which messes with the reservoir’s water levels throughout the year. You won’t find any old-growth forests here—it’s just too dry—but the surrounding forests have a decent mix of trees.
San Carlos Reservoir sits south of the US-Mexico border and right by the San Carlos Apache reservation. If you want quiet and wide-open spaces, this place delivers. You won’t run into the crowds you see in national parks.
Location And Access
You’ll find San Carlos Reservoir in southeastern Arizona, not far from the town of San Carlos. Arizona State Route 70 gets you there, and it’s a straight shot from cities like Globe or Safford.
There are a few different ways to get to the reservoir and the boondocking spots. Some are on public lands, including BLM-managed sections that usually allow free camping.
The roads? Well, some are paved or gravel and fine for most cars. Others are rough dirt, so if you’ve got a high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicle, you’ll have an easier time getting to the more remote corners.
You’ll see official campgrounds with fees and group sites, but most boondocking happens on dispersed public land. That means you’re on your own for amenities, so come prepared.
Heads up—cell phone service can be spotty out there. Bring maps or a GPS, and double-check for any road closures before you set out.
Directions: How To Get There And What To Expect
If you’re coming from Tucson, jump on Highway 70 east toward Globe, then follow smaller roads to the reservoir. The last stretch is mostly dirt, and it can get rough.
Once you get near the water, expect narrow, rocky, unpaved roads. If it’s rained, you’ll really want a high-clearance vehicle.
There are plenty of dispersed camping spots nearby—free, but bare bones. Bring everything: water, food, the works. No services out here.
Keep your gear locked up and stay alert. There have been reports of theft and vandalism, so don’t leave valuables out. If you want peace and quiet, skip holiday weekends.
Camping close to town or on public lands near the reservoir keeps you in nature but not too far from a highway. Try to show up while it’s still light out; signage is minimal and the area’s pretty remote.
Checklist before you go:
- Fill up your gas tank
- Pack water and food
- Bring a high-clearance vehicle if you have one
- Have a map or GPS for those off-road routes
- Don’t forget an emergency kit and a way to communicate
Boondocking here is about as primitive as it gets—no hookups, no frills, just you and the wild.
Amenities And Activities
You’ll find camping options for both RVs and tents at San Carlos Reservoir. Some boondocking locations have basic stuff like toilets and picnic tables, but most don’t have hookups, so plan to be self-sufficient.
There’s RV parking and tent camping in several areas. If you need a few more comforts, KOA parks aren’t too far and have showers and dump stations—good for a backup plan.
Want to get on the water? Boat ramps are available, so you can fish or just cruise around. Fishing’s popular, with plenty of shoreline access.
If hiking’s your thing, trails wind around the reservoir and into the nearby mountains. Some are easy, others a bit more challenging, but all are good for spotting wildlife or just getting some fresh air.
Off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding and biking are options on the local trails, too. Some sites even come with grills if you’re up for a barbecue.
| Amenity | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| RV Parking | Several locations | Limited full hookups |
| Tent Campsites | Many sites | Some with picnic tables |
| Boat Ramp | Multiple ramps | Fishing and boating access |
| Trails | Nearby mountains | Hiking and biking available |
| Restrooms | Select sites | Basic toilet facilities |
It’s mostly primitive camping, so come ready to handle your own needs and enjoy the outdoors.
Camping Regulations And Restrictions
You’ve got options: campgrounds with fees or dispersed camping areas. Most campgrounds charge, and group sites often need reservations. If you want a spot in a popular area, book ahead.
Dispersed camping is allowed in a lot of the San Carlos Ranger District. Park within 30 feet of site markers if you see them. Skip developed areas like trailheads, picnic spots, or parking lots—overnight camping isn’t allowed there.
Follow all fire rules, especially in dry seasons. Use established fire rings, never leave a fire burning, and pack out every bit of trash. Leave no trace is the name of the game.
Check the roads before you go—some sites need a high-clearance vehicle. Always pay attention to any posted camping restrictions or closures.
You can usually camp year-round, but some places close for maintenance or safety. If you’re unsure, call the San Carlos Ranger District before you head out.
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Campground Fees | Most campgrounds have fees |
| Reservations | Required for group sites |
| Dispersed Camping Location | Within 30 feet of site markers |
| No Overnight in Developed Areas | Trailheads, picnic spots restricted |
| Fire Safety | Use fire rings, obey fire bans |
| Vehicle Access | Check road conditions |
Leave No Trace
When you’re boondocking near San Carlos Reservoir, stick to Leave No Trace principles. It keeps the place nice for everyone.
Take out everything you bring in—trash, food scraps, gear, all of it. Leaving stuff behind just messes up the area for wildlife and future campers.
Set up camp on rocks or dry grass, not on fragile plants or soft ground. That helps protect the ecosystem.
If you make a fire, keep it small and use existing rings. Always put it out cold before you leave. Never walk away from a burning fire.
Watch wildlife from a distance—don’t feed animals or mess with their homes. It’s safer for both sides.
Use a portable toilet or dig a hole at least 200 feet from water for waste. Follow local rules so you don’t pollute the reservoir.
Key Points to Remember:
| Action | Reason |
|---|---|
| Pack out all trash | Prevent pollution |
| Camp on durable ground | Protect plants and soil |
| Use existing fire rings | Reduce risk of wildfires |
| Keep distance from wildlife | Ensure safety for all |
| Dispose of waste properly | Protect water and health |
If everyone does their part, San Carlos Reservoir stays beautiful and wild.
Helpful Information Links
Bureau of Land Management
Recreation.Gov
National Park Service
Arizona Park Service
Arizona Trust
Arizona Fish and Game
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
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San Carlos Reservoir Boondocking Locations
Free Boondocking Locations
Hog Canyon Overlook
33.74339, -110.967214
Situated within the Tonto National Forest near Young, Arizona, Hog Canyon Overlook offers dispersed camping with expansive views of surrounding canyons. The area features a few campsites equipped with fire pits and is suitable for both tents and small RVs. Campers are advised to practice Leave No Trace principles, as the site lacks developed facilities.
Things to Do:
Visitors can explore the nearby Hog Canyon Trail, an 8.4-mile out-and-back trail near Gold Canyon, Arizona, considered moderately challenging and popular for birding and hiking. The area is also in proximity to the Sierra Ancha Mountains and the San Carlos Reservoir, offering additional hiking opportunities.
Directions:
From Globe, Arizona, take AZ-188 N for approximately 15 miles. Turn right onto AZ-288 N and continue for about 30 miles. Turn left onto Forest Road 487 and follow signs to Hog Canyon Overlook.
US Forest Service
Vehicle Access:
High-clearance vehicles are recommended due to the rugged terrain leading to the campsite. The road conditions may not be suitable for large RVs or trailers.
H – Z Wash
33.624193, -110.934556
Situated along the Upper Salt River within the Tonto National Forest, H-Z Wash offers a dispersed camping experience amidst scenic desert landscapes. The area provides opportunities for fishing and non-motorized boating due to its proximity to the river. While the site is not developed, it allows for easy access to recreational activities and is suitable for families or individuals seeking a quick escape.
Things to Do:
Visitors can engage in water-based activities such as fishing and kayaking on the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The surrounding area offers impressive views of mountains, canyons, and wildlife, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Directions:
From Roosevelt, Arizona, take AZ-188 N for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 60 and continue for about 5 miles to reach H-Z Wash.
Vehicle Access:
The access road to H-Z Wash is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, and campers should scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
EADS Wash
33.619939, -110.956455
Located on the Upper Salt River within the Tonto National Forest, EADS Wash offers dispersed camping with river access. The site provides an accessible toilet building and trash receptacles. Campers should be aware that the area is prone to flash floods and should camp out of flood zones while monitoring weather conditions.
Things to Do:
EADS Wash is a popular spot for river rafting on the Upper Salt River and the San Carlos Reservoir. The surrounding area offers opportunities for mountain biking in the Pinal Mountains and hiking or horseback riding at Picketpost Mountain.
US Forest Service
Directions:
From Globe, Arizona, take US-60 E for approximately 5 miles. Turn left onto AZ-77 N and continue for about 10 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 287 and follow signs to EADS Wash.
Vehicle Access:
The access road to EADS Wash is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. High-clearance vehicles are recommended, and campers should scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Eucalyptus Wash
33.628412, -110.942669
Situated near Roosevelt, Arizona, Eucalyptus Wash offers dispersed camping opportunities near the Upper Salt River. The area is known for fishing, water recreation, and wildlife viewing. Campers should be aware that the area is prone to flash floods and should camp out of flood zones while monitoring weather conditions.
Things to Do:
Visitors can enjoy fishing and kayaking on the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers a glimpse into the region’s history with its well-preserved cliff dwellings.
Directions:
From Roosevelt, Arizona, take AZ-188 N for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 60 and continue for about 5 miles to reach Eucalyptus Wash.
Campground Views
Vehicle Access:
The access road to Eucalyptus Wash is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended, and campers should scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Roosevelt Lake Indian Point
33.767, -111.239
Located on the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake, Indian Point offers dispersed camping opportunities with picturesque views of Arizona’s largest lake. The area provides access to several miles of hiking and lake access trails. Campers should be aware that the official campground has been closed for years, but a large crushed stone area is available for dispersed camping.
Things to Do:
Visitors can engage in water-based activities such as boating and fishing on Roosevelt Lake, Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings.
Directions:
From Roosevelt, Arizona, take AZ-188 N for approximately 10 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 60 and continue for about 5 miles to reach Indian Point.
Vehicle Access:
The access road to Indian Point is unpaved but generally accessible to most vehicles. Campers should exercise caution and scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Cottonwood Camp OHV Boondocking
33.623351, -111.448141
Cottonwood Camp OHV is a free-use area within the Tonto National Forest, located along Forest Road 1846 off the Four Peaks Road corridor. This dispersed site is known for its wide-open layout, loose gravel camping pads, and its popularity with both OHV users and weekend campers looking for peace and space.
There are no established sites or services. Camping is allowed in designated dispersed areas along the dirt roads, and visitors can find flat spots surrounded by mesquite, cottonwood, and desert scrub. Fire rings may be present from prior campers, but fire restrictions should always be checked in advance.
Things to Do:
Ideal for OHV access, this area connects to trails used by dirt bikes, quads, and 4WD vehicles. Hiking and exploring the surrounding washes and foothills are possible, and there are occasional wildlife sightings. This is also a basecamp for accessing deeper sections of the Tonto Forest for day trips as well as visits to the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir
Directions:
From Highway 87, take Four Peaks Road east (FR 143), then turn onto FR 1846. The Cottonwood Camp area begins near GPS: 33.623351, -111.448141.
Vehicle Access:
The road is unpaved and may become rutted after rains. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Not ideal for large RVs. Bring all supplies and pack out everything—there are no facilities on site.
Apache Trail – Mesa Boondocking
33.535549, -111.378433
Apache Trail boondocking is located along the historic AZ-88 scenic byway just outside Mesa. This area offers primitive, free camping within the Tonto National Forest. It’s a well-known boondocking route offering desert views, solitude, and quick access to multiple lakes, including Canyon Lake and Apache Lake.
This stretch of Apache Trail includes multiple dispersed pullouts and dirt clearings. There are no amenities—no water, bathrooms, or garbage disposal—so all campers must be fully self-contained. Most sites are visible from the road but still provide enough separation for privacy. Desert brush and mesquite dominate the terrain.
Things to Do:
AZ-88 is a destination on its own, featuring steep canyons, lakes, and historical landmarks like Tortilla Flat. Boaters, hikers, and photographers frequent the area. Nearby attractions include Canyon Lake and the Tonto National Monument and the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir.
Directions:
Head northeast from Mesa on AZ-88. Dispersed camping spots begin past the paved section around Tortilla Flat. Use GPS: 33.535549, -111.378433 to find the general area.
Vehicle Access:
Conditions vary. The first few miles from Mesa are paved, but it turns into a rough, winding dirt road not suitable for large trailers. High-clearance vehicles are preferred. Avoid the area after heavy rain.
Mesquite Flats – Arizona Boondocking
33.545986, -111.337306
Mesquite Flats is a remote, free-use camping area off Apache Trail (AZ-88) within the Tonto National Forest. Known for its rugged landscape and sparse vegetation, this area offers primitive desert boondocking with sweeping views and close proximity to Saguaro Lake and the Salt River corridor.
There are no developed campsites or services. Visitors can camp in level dirt areas scattered among mesquite and creosote bushes. Fire rings may be present, but campers should observe all fire restrictions. The area can be windy and lacks shade. Cell signal may be weak, depending on location.
Things to Do:
Outdoor recreation includes hiking nearby ridges, rockhounding, photography, and off-road trail access. While there’s no direct water access, it’s within a reasonable drive of Canyon Lake and the Salt River Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir for kayaking or fishing. Quiet nights and strong stargazing conditions are a major draw.
Directions:
Take AZ-88 (Apache Trail) northeast from Mesa. Look for turnouts and dispersed camping areas just past the paved section. The site is accessible near GPS: 33.545986, -111.337306.
Vehicle Access:
Apache Trail is partly paved but becomes rough and washboarded past Tortilla Flat. The approach to Mesquite Flats is better suited for high-clearance vehicles. Camping spots are on hard-packed dirt, and access may be difficult in wet conditions.
Arizona Permit Free Locations
Bachelor Cove
33.712795, -111.198456
Situated along the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake in the Tonto Basin area, Bachelor Cove offers dispersed camping in a desert environment characterized by mesquite, cat claw, desert broom, cholla, and saguaro cacti. The site provides scenic views of the Sierra Ancha Mountains and is favored by campers seeking solitude and a connection with nature. There are no developed facilities; campers must practice Leave No Trace principles.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 84 and continue for about 2 miles to reach Bachelor Cove.
The Dyrt
Vehicle Access:
The access road is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Large RVs and trailers may find access challenging.
Three Mile Wash
33.654638, -111.184458
Situated 3 miles south of Roosevelt Dam along the south shoreline of Apache Lake, Three Mile Wash offers dispersed camping with shoreline parking and boat access. The area is surrounded by mountains and abundant wildlife, providing a scenic and tranquil environment. Campers are advised to practice Leave No Trace principles, as facilities are limited.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Apache Trail National Forest Scenic Byway offers opportunities for scenic drives and exploration.
Directions:
From Apache Junction, drive north on State Hwy. 88 for 41 miles (the last 20 miles are unpaved) to Three Mile Wash Recreation Site. Turn left and continue to the site.
Vehicle Access:
State Hwy. 88 is a narrow, winding mountain road with a maximum vehicle length limit of 40 feet. Trailers over 22 feet are not recommended. High-clearance vehicles are advised.
Lower Burnt Corral – Apache Tribe Campground
33.62664, -111.204712
Situated along the south shoreline of Apache Lake, approximately 6 miles south of Roosevelt Dam, Lower Burnt Corral offers dispersed camping in a scenic canyon setting. The area provides shoreline parking and boat access, with views of majestic mountains and abundant wildlife. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Apache Trail National Forest Scenic Byway offers opportunities for scenic drives and exploration.
Directions:
From Roosevelt, take AZ-188 west for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto AZ-88 and continue for about 6 miles to reach Lower Burnt Corral.
go-arizona.com
Vehicle Access:
Access is via the unpaved AZ Hwy 88, which is narrow, steep, and winding in spots. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Trailers over 22 feet are not advised.
Apache Lake Boat Access
33.594383, -111.222916
Situated near the town of Tonto Basin, this campground offers developed camping facilities along the shores of Roosevelt Lake. The area provides amenities such as shade ramadas, fire pits, grills, picnic tables, playgrounds, showers, and toilet facilities. Campers can enjoy a comfortable stay with access to various recreational activities.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing on Roosevelt Lake, Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 5 miles to reach the Roosevelt Lake Tonto Basin Campground.
Vehicle Access:
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is suitable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers.
Paid Campgrounds
Roosevelt Lake Tonto Basin
33.807925, -111.284122
Situated near the town of Tonto Basin, this campground offers developed camping facilities along the shores of Roosevelt Lake. The area provides amenities such as shade ramadas, fire pits, grills, picnic tables, playgrounds, showers, and toilet facilities. Campers can enjoy a comfortable stay with access to various recreational activities.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing on Roosevelt Lake. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 5 miles to reach the Roosevelt Lake Tonto Basin Campground.
Vehicle Access:
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is suitable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers.
Bermuda Flats AZ
33.745087, -111.226773
Situated along the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake within the Tonto National Forest, Bermuda Flats offers dispersed camping opportunities with scenic views of the Sierra Ancha Mountains and Four Peaks Wilderness. The area features miles of sandy shoreline accessible to most vehicles, including RVs. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing on Roosevelt Lake., Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 84 and continue for about 2 miles to reach Bermuda Flats Campground.
Vehicle Access:
The access road is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Large RVs and trailers may find access challenging.
Frazier Horse Campground
33.666391, -111.124325
Situated near the shoreline of Roosevelt Lake within the Tonto National Forest, Frazier Horse Campground is designed for equestrian use, offering amenities tailored for campers traveling with horses. The campground features 11 camp units with shade ramadas, fire rings with grills, picnic tables, potable water hydrants, and a toilet building. Stables are available for horse accommodation.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include horseback riding and hiking on nearby trails such as the Cottonwood Canyon Trail, which connects to the Arizona Trail. The area offers scenic views of the Sierra Ancha, Salome, and Superstition Wilderness areas. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of mule deer, coyotes, geese, foxes, javelinas, and the occasional bald eagle.
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 84 and continue for about 2 miles to reach Frazier Horse Campground.
Vehicle Access:
The access road is unpaved and may be rough in certain areas. Horse trailers under 32 feet are recommended. Campers should scout ahead before driving down dirt roads.
Roosevelt Lake Schoolhouse
33.648417, -111.011162
Situated along the eastern shores of Roosevelt Lake within the Tonto National Forest, Schoolhouse Campground offers a developed camping experience at an elevation of 2,100 feet. The campground features 41 campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site includes a shade ramada, picnic table, fire ring with grill, and paved parking. The campground provides access to Roosevelt Lake, Arizona’s largest lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and lakeside hiking. Vault toilets and potable water are available on-site.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking along the shoreline at the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Tonto National Monument offers historical insights with its well-preserved cliff dwellings. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of mule deer, coyotes, and various bird species.
Campsite Photos
Directions:
From Tonto Basin, take AZ-188 north for approximately 8 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 84 and continue for about 2 miles to reach Schoolhouse Campground.
Vehicle Access:
The access road is paved and suitable for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Campers should be prepared for limited cell service in the area.
Burnt Corral
33.626348, -111.203905
Situated along the southern shoreline of Apache Lake within the Tonto National Forest, Burnt Corral Campground offers a developed camping experience amidst the canyon walls of the Sonoran Desert. The campground features 82 campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and access to vault toilets and potable water. The campground provides direct access to Apache Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking in the surrounding area at the Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Apache Trail National Forest Scenic Byway offers opportunities for scenic drives and exploration. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of bighorn sheep, mule deer, and various bird species.
Directions:
From Roosevelt, take AZ-188 west for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto AZ-88 and continue for about 6 miles to reach Burnt Corral Campground.
Vehicle Access:
Access is via the unpaved AZ Hwy 88, which is narrow, steep, and winding in spots. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Trailers over 22 feet are not advised.
Crabtree Wash
33.574178, -111.255597
Situated along the southern shoreline of Apache Lake within the Tonto National Forest, Crabtree Wash offers dispersed camping opportunities in a desert environment characterized by rugged terrain and sparse vegetation. The area provides shoreline parking and boat access, with scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Campers should be prepared for primitive conditions and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Things to Do:
Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing on Apache Lake, Upper Salt River or the San Carlos Reservoir. The nearby Apache Trail National Forest Scenic Byway offers opportunities for scenic drives and exploration. Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding Tonto National Forest.
Directions:
From Apache Junction, drive north on State Hwy. 88 for 32 miles (the last 20 miles are unpaved) to Forest Road 79. Turn left and continue for about 1 mile to reach Crabtree Wash.
Vehicle Access:
Access is via the unpaved AZ Hwy 88, which is narrow, steep, and winding in spots. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Trailers over 22 feet are not advised.
San Carlos Reservoir Frequently Asked Questions
Boondocking near San Carlos Reservoir gives you a bunch of choices, each with its own quirks. Knowing where to park and what to expect helps you have a smoother trip.
What are the best boondocking spots near San Carlos Reservoir?
Some good areas are near State Route 70 and along Indian Route 3. You’ll find open spaces with decent water access. Most spots are dispersed, not official campgrounds, so look for flat, clear ground.
What are the regulations for free camping around San Carlos Reservoir?
Rules change depending on whether you’re on state, federal, or tribal land. Usually, free camping is allowed for a limited time and only in designated areas. Always check local postings and avoid private land.
How can I ensure my boondocking site is legal in the San Carlos Reservoir area?
Double-check the land ownership before you set up. Use maps or call the local ranger office to make sure camping’s allowed. Skip areas marked private or restricted.
Are there any amenities available at boondocking sites near San Carlos Reservoir?
Most boondocking spots don’t have water, toilets, or trash cans. Bring your own supplies and plan to haul out all your garbage.
Is it safe to boondock around the San Carlos Reservoir, and what precautions should I take?
Generally, yes, but weather can turn in a hurry. Bring plenty of water and food, keep an eye out for wildlife, and let someone know your plans. Don’t count on cell service everywhere.
What’s the maximum duration I can stay while boondocking near San Carlos Reservoir?
Usually, you can stick around for up to 14 days on public lands. After that, you’ll need to move at least 25 miles away. Rules can change, though, so it’s smart to double-check the area’s guidelines—no one wants a surprise fine.