HikeArizona.COM

So i went down some random rabbit hole and ran into a couple of sources that mentioned that you could get free backcountry camping permits in the White Tanks. This has me a little intrigued as it would represent the shortest drive to a "winter" backpacking trip I could do by far, and something that might be a little kid friendly as well. I've gone out there for car camping a couple of times but when I did that, I took my mountain bike and putted around on that a bit, not with backpacking in mind. I'm curious, anyone gone out there and done any backcountry camping? Can you actually find some established sites out there? If so, any pointers where/mileage would be appreciated.

I went camping on the backside (western slope) of the White Tanks once then hiked up to the summit of Goldwater Peak. It's pretty rugged back there. From what I recall it's a mishmash of old 4x4 roads and game trails and our hiking was a total bushwhack up a drainage.

I recall one water source not far from the TH, but the rest of it seems pretty dry.

@xsproutx

During the '90s and early 2000s I used to backpack the White Tanks frequently. I loved it! Part of this was before the backcountry trail system in the park was redeveloped so when I first started doing taking trips back there, it really felt super empty and remote. There used to be a few reliably year round water sources, with Willow Springs being the best though Mesquite Springs often had water too. However during most winters with any amount of rainfall, the tanks down in the canyon bottoms will also have water.

As far as where to camp, I think it really depends on what kind of experience you're looking to have and whether or not you want to carry water any significant distance. I believe park staff might even recommend spots if you ask. If you have time to hike it before backpacking, I'd recommend trying a hike to/from Willow Springs along Mesquite and then Willow Canyon or trying Mesquite to Willow to Ford Canyon back to Mesquite. If you're feeling like a slightly longer hike, try Waddell to Ford to Willow then back to Mesquite or try the Ford to Goat Camp loop with or without a shuttle.

The last time I was in the park (used to frequent a lot when I lived in the area) the park rangers were very particular about folks staying on the marked trails. Especially around the Willow Canyon area, which I believe was due to some Indian ruins down in the canyon. So whenever they asked where I was heading, I never told them I was heading up to the radio towers. Plus if I recall there are some signs around the Willow, Mesquite and Ford Canyon areas telling you to stay on trail.

But the backside (western side) is a free for all and you have the whole place to explore. Just not that many trails, mostly game trails.