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Desert Vista OHV Area

Carefree, Arizona · Maricopa County · Facility

Located in the Cave Creek District about one hour from Phoenix, this 33,500 acre area has more than 100 miles of open routes that vary in width. The primary access point is the Wildcat staging area located on Bartlett Dam Road approximately 1 mile east of Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek AZ. All routes are two-way travel ra…

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33.84980, -111.81623
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About Desert Vista OHV Area

Located in the Cave Creek District about one hour from Phoenix, this 33,500 acre area has more than 100 miles of open routes that vary in width. The primary access point is the Wildcat staging area located on Bartlett Dam Road approximately 1 mile east of Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek AZ. All routes are two-way travel ranging in technical challenge from easy to very difficult with the majority of routes falling in the moderate to more difficult category. A highlight of this area is Camp Creek Wash (FR413) which provides access to the Verde River and the Needle Rock Recreation area. Please remember to stay on the routes. Driving off-road is prohibited on the Tonto National Forest.

How to Get There

Directions:Exit 101 freeway at North Pima Road. Continue north on Pima Road to North Cave Creek Road. East on Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Dam Road. East on Bartlett Dam Road, approximately one mile to the turn-off for the staging area on your right Download a map of the Desert Vista OHV area (PDF)

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Desert Vista OHV Area

Heading to Desert Vista OHV Area? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Desert Vista OHV Area?

No central reservation system listed for Desert Vista OHV Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10049225) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Desert Vista OHV Area?

Directions:Exit 101 freeway at North Pima Road. Continue north on Pima Road to North Cave Creek Road. East on Cave Creek Road to Bartlett Dam Road. East on Bartlett Dam Road, approximately one mile to the turn-off for the staging area on your right Download a map of the Desert Vista OHV area (PDF)