Off Highway 85 between Why and the Mexican border, Gunsight Wash BLM Dispersed camping area spreads across open desert terrain managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The entrance sits just past mile marker 55, accessed through a cattle guard and dirt roads that accommodate big rigs without difficulty.
Campers find scattered sites throughout the expansive area, with spacing that allows for privacy despite occasional crowds during peak winter months. Greg L. notes that "the farther west into the area the less road noise" from Highway 85, which carries steady traffic to the border crossing during daylight hours. The area goes back several miles, offering quieter spots for those willing to drive further from the main road. Cell service reaches four bars for Verizon and T-Mobile users, though AT&T coverage remains spotty.
The location provides convenient access to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, located just three miles south. Existing fire rings dot the landscape among saguaro cacti and desert shrubs, and campfires remain permitted year-round. Border Patrol maintains an active presence due to proximity to international boundaries, with a checkpoint at mile marker 57.5. Aliza N. observed that "everyone around was quiet and respectful" and noted hearing coyotes throughout the night.
The nearby town of Why offers gas, ice, and supplies within two miles of the turnoff. Filtered water costs one dollar for five gallons at the community center kiosk across the highway. For additional camping options, visitors can explore places to camp around Ajo or consider nearby Hickiwan Trails Tribal RV Park. The 14-day camping limit and free access make this area popular with long-term visitors, particularly during cooler months when temperatures become more manageable.
Description
Dispersed camping near Why, AZ in the Sonoran Desert.
Fee Info
none
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Dispersed CampingGunsight Wash BLM Dispersed camping area is located in Arizona
Directions
Approximately 1.2 miles south of intersection of hwy 85 and 86 in Why on right side of road BLM land. Entrance just south of bridge over wash, through gate.
Address
Lower Sonoran Field Office
21605 North 7th Ave
Phoenix, AZ 85027
Coordinates
32.23948 N
112.75063 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/4/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/4/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 49 usersLast on 4/4/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 7 usersLast on 4/4/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 4/4/26
- AT&TLTEGood CoverageVerified by 49 usersLast on 4/4/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
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 Gunsight Wash BLM Dispersed camping area needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 53 min from Tucson, AZ
- 2 hrs from Phoenix, AZ
- 2 hrs 24 min from Yuma, AZ
- 2 hrs 50 min from Sierra Vista, AZ





































