Camp Spot (BLM)

For many Arizonans, the true spirit of camping lies not in manicured sites and full hookups, but in the open, expansive landscapes of the desert. Camp Spot, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) area near Morristown, offers just that: a genuine, no-frills boondocking experience. This isn't your typical developed campground with paved roads and a camp host. Instead, it's a vast stretch of public land where you can find your own spot, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Located within sight of Lake Pleasant, this area is a haven for those who are fully self-sufficient and prepared to embrace the wild. It’s a place for adventurers, off-road enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to witness stunning sunsets and wake up to the sight of wild burros roaming freely. This guide is designed to provide you with a realistic and factual overview of what to expect, ensuring you arrive prepared for the unique challenges and incredible rewards of camping on BLM land. From the rugged terrain to the quiet solitude, Camp Spot offers a very different, and for many, a more authentic, kind of Arizona escape.

The beauty of a BLM camp spot is its simplicity. There are no reservations, no site numbers, and no long list of rules beyond the basic principles of "leave no trace" and respect for the environment. This freedom is what attracts so many to this style of camping. However, as with any primitive area, preparation is key. You are your own camp host here, responsible for your safety, your supplies, and packing out everything you bring in. This includes all your trash, as there are no on-site services or garbage cans. The lack of amenities is a trade-off for the stunning views, peaceful solitude (especially on weekdays), and the pure, unadulterated access to nature. The area is known for being a popular gathering point for off-roaders and ATV enthusiasts, which adds a lively, adventurous atmosphere, particularly on weekends. While some find the noise a downside, others enjoy the energy and sense of community. The views of Lake Pleasant and the surrounding desert landscape are a constant highlight, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife, from coyotes to the area's famous wild burros, makes the experience truly special. We'll explore the details of this unique camping area to help you decide if it's the right fit for your next desert adventure.

This article will provide a balanced look at the realities of camping at Camp Spot, based on public data and real customer feedback. Understanding that this is dispersed camping is the most important factor in a successful trip. The landscape is beautiful but rugged, and being prepared for the conditions, from the bumpy roads to the potential for mud after rain, is essential. For those who are ready to embrace a more rustic camping style, the rewards are immense, offering a truly unforgettable experience under the wide-open Arizona sky.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Spot (BLM) is located in the Morristown, AZ 85342 area, offering a convenient yet secluded camping experience. Its general location is situated with views overlooking Lake Pleasant, providing a stunning backdrop of water and mountains. Access to the area is typically via unpaved roads, which can be challenging to navigate, particularly for larger vehicles or after rainfall. Customer reviews note that the roads can be "rutted up and bumpy," which can turn the journey to a campsite into an adventure in itself. This dispersed camping area lacks official addresses or designated entrances. Visitors must be prepared to scout for a suitable spot that fits their vehicle and camping needs. Given the rough terrain, a vehicle with higher clearance is recommended, especially if you plan to venture far from the main access points. The area is considered a staging ground for off-road vehicle activities, so you will often find other campers with ATVs and dune buggies. While the provided information mentions "on-site parking," this is referring to the ability to park your vehicle at your chosen campsite, as there are no paved lots or designated parking areas in the traditional sense. The beauty of the location lies in its expansive, open nature, giving you the freedom to find a spot that offers the perfect view and a sense of privacy. Accessibility for those with mobility issues would be challenging due to the unpaved, uneven roads and lack of developed infrastructure.

Services Offered

• Tent Sites: Campers are free to set up tents anywhere in the designated BLM area.
• Hiking: The area provides opportunities for on-site hiking, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding desert landscape.
• On-site Parking: Dispersed camping allows for on-site parking at your chosen campsite.
• Wild Burros: A unique highlight of the area is the presence of wild burros, often seen roaming freely.

Features / Highlights

• Free Camping: As a BLM location, camping is free of charge, with no fees or reservations required.
• Dispersed Camping: This is a dispersed or "boondocking" site, meaning there are no services, amenities, or designated campsites.
• Off-roading Hub: The area is popular with off-roaders and is a common staging point for ATVs and other recreational vehicles.
• Scenic Views: Campers are treated to beautiful views of Lake Pleasant and the surrounding desert, with spectacular sunsets.
• Abundant Wildlife: The presence of wild burros is a major highlight, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.
• Quiet and Secluded: Despite being a popular spot for off-roaders, the area offers plenty of quiet and secluded spots, especially during the week.
• Good for Kids: The vast open space and opportunity for adventure make it a fun place for kids who are prepared for rustic conditions.

Contact Information

Address: Morristown, AZ 85342, USA (General Area)

Please note that this is a dispersed camping area and does not have a physical office or phone number. For general information on BLM land, you would need to contact the Bureau of Land Management office for the Arizona field office responsible for this region.

What is worth choosing

Camp Spot (BLM) is worth choosing for the camper who values freedom, solitude, and an authentic connection to the Arizona desert. This is the ideal spot for experienced boondockers, van lifers, and tent campers who are fully self-sufficient. The main reason to choose this location is that it is entirely free, offering an affordable way to access some of the state's most beautiful landscapes. The ability to choose your own spot in a vast, open area means you can find a location that provides the perfect view or the most privacy, a luxury you often don't get at a traditional, designated campground. The views of Lake Pleasant and the spectacular sunsets are a constant reward for the rugged journey to your site. Furthermore, the unique opportunity to encounter the wild burros of the area adds a magical and memorable element to the experience, making it stand out from other camping spots. For those who enjoy off-roading, this area serves as an excellent base camp, with plenty of space to set up and get right to the trails.

However, it is crucial to set your expectations correctly. This is not a place for those seeking amenities, paved roads, or on-site services. As noted by real customers, there are no restrooms, no garbage disposal, and no hookups of any kind. This means you must pack in all your water, food, and supplies, and, most importantly, pack out all of your trash, adhering to the "Leave No Trace" principles. The roads can be a challenge, especially after rain, when they can turn into mud pits. The lack of services also means there's no place to dump grey or black tanks, so RVers must be fully prepared. For those who are well-prepared and appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of the desert, Camp Spot offers an unparalleled experience. It’s a place for adventurers who are willing to trade the comforts of a developed site for the freedom and pure, rugged beauty that only a true desert escape can provide. If you’re a camper who lives by the motto "less is more," and is prepared for the elements, this BLM spot is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Camp Spot (BLM)

Morristown, AZ 85342, USA