The Estrella Wayside Recreation Area is in the Sonoran Desert National
Monument. The area includes parking, picnic tables, grills, and fire rings
just off Maricopa Road. Four primitive campsites are north of Maricopa Road
off route 8002B. The campsites are small and can accommodate tents and
passenger vehicles. High clearance vehicles are recommended along route 8002B.
Dispersed camping is available along route 8002.

Route 8003, which follows the path of the Juan Bautista de Anza National
Historic Trail, is about 4.3 miles north of Maricopa Road along route 8002.
High clearance is required.

## Hours and Seasons

Open year-round, 24 hours a day. It's best to enjoy the monument from late
October to mid-April to avoid summer heat.

## Features and Services

  * **Facilities:** Picnic tables, grills, fire rings, campsites, parking.
  * **Access and Parking** : The recreation area is along route 8002 north of Maricopa Road. A parking and picnic area is near the highway and is flat and unpaved. Campsites are about 3.5 miles from the Maricopa Road turnoff via route 8002 and 8002B. Parking spaces at these campsites are small.
  * **Cell Service** : Limited; reception is spotty in this remote area.
  * **Toilets** : None. 
    * The nearest toilet is at Gap Well, about 6 miles west along Maricopa Road, and about 1.3 miles north along route 8004. 
    * A toilet is also available at Margies Cove East Trailhead, about 6.5 miles north along route 8002, then about 1.5 miles west on route 8002A. High clearance is required. 
  * **Drinking Water** : None.
  * **Pets** : Permitted on leash; please remove pet waste.
  * **Camping** : Four primitive campsites are along route 8002B, north of Maricopa Road. High clearance vehicles are recommended. Primitive, dispersed camping is allowed on nearby BLM lands; check local regulations for fire and camping guidelines.
  * **Nearby Amenities** : Gila Bend and Maricopa offer food, fuel, lodging, and basic medical services.

## Respect and Protect

Historic and archaeological sites are protected by law. Please leave cultural
and historical artifacts untouched. By practicing responsible outdoor ethics,
you help ensure future visitors can enjoy this remarkable site.

<p>The Estrella Wayside Recreation Area is in the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/100280" rel="nofollow">Sonoran Desert National Monument</a>. The area includes parking, picnic tables, grills, and fire rings just off Maricopa Road. Four primitive campsites are north of Maricopa Road off route 8002B. The campsites are small and can accommodate tents and passenger vehicles. High clearance vehicles are recommended along route 8002B. Dispersed camping is available along route 8002.</p><p>Route 8003, which follows the path of the <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/4264" rel="nofollow">Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail</a>, is about 4.3 miles north of Maricopa Road along route 8002. High clearance is required.</p><div><div><h2>Hours and Seasons</h2><p>Open year-round, 24 hours a day. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April to avoid summer heat.</p><h2>Features and Services</h2><ul><li><strong>Facilities: </strong>Picnic tables, grills, fire rings, campsites, parking.</li><li><strong>Access and Parking</strong>: The recreation area is along route 8002 north of Maricopa Road. A parking and picnic area is near the highway and is flat and unpaved. Campsites are about 3.5 miles from the Maricopa Road turnoff via route 8002 and 8002B. Parking spaces at these campsites are small.</li><li><strong>Cell Service</strong>: Limited; reception is spotty in this remote area.</li><li><strong>Toilets</strong>: None. <ul><li>The nearest toilet is at Gap Well, about 6 miles west along Maricopa Road, and about 1.3 miles north along route 8004. </li><li>A toilet is also available at <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/102080" rel="nofollow">Margies Cove East Trailhead</a>, about 6.5 miles north along route 8002, then about 1.5 miles west on route 8002A. High clearance is required. </li></ul></li><li><strong>Drinking Water</strong>: None.</li><li><strong>Pets</strong>: Permitted on leash; please remove pet waste.</li><li><strong>Camping</strong>: Four primitive campsites are along route 8002B, north of Maricopa Road. High clearance vehicles are recommended. Primitive, <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping" rel="nofollow">dispersed camping</a> is allowed on nearby BLM lands; check local regulations for fire and camping guidelines.</li><li><strong>Nearby Amenities</strong>: Gila Bend and Maricopa offer food, fuel, lodging, and basic medical services.</li></ul><h2>Respect and Protect</h2><p>Historic and archaeological sites are protected by law. Please leave cultural and historical artifacts untouched. By practicing responsible <a href="https://www.blm.gov/outdoorethics" rel="nofollow">outdoor ethics</a>, you help ensure future visitors can enjoy this remarkable site.</p></div></div>

Estrella Wayside Campsite

Estrella Wayside Recreation Area

The Sonoran Desert National Monument contains magnificent examples of
untrammeled Sonoran Desert landscape. The monument sits in the most
biologically diverse of the North American deserts and captures a significant
portion of that diversity. The most striking aspect of the plant community in
the monument is the extensive saguaro cactus forest. The monument contains
three distinct mountain ranges, the Maricopa, Sand Tank and Table Top
mountains, as well as the Booth and White hills, all separated by wide
valleys. The monument also contains three congressionally designated
wilderness areas, archaeological and historic sites, and remnants of several
important historic trails.

## Hours and Seasons

The monument is open 24 hours a day, year-round. It's best to enjoy the
monument from late October to mid-April to avoid summer heat.

## Places to Go

  * North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness Area
    * Margies Cove West Campground, Margies Cove West Trailhead, Margies Cove East
    * Brittlebrush Trailhead
  * Estrella Wayside Recreation Area
  * Table Top Wilderness Area
    * Table Top Trail
    * Lava Flow Trail

## Getting Around

Interstate 8 and State Route 238 cross the monument. Most other roads are
unpaved, primitive, and not maintained. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive
vehicles are recommended in some areas. More than 460 miles of posted roads
are available for back country, off-highway vehicle driving and mountain
biking; however, by law, vehicles and bicycles are prohibited in wilderness.

## Camping

Camping on Public Lands

**Dispersed Camping**

  * Dispersed camping and picnicking is allowed throughout the monument, unless otherwise posted. Desert camping allows visitors to take short scenic hikes, survey unique vegetation, and relax with friends under a blanket of stars.

**Campgrounds**

  * Two small campgrounds at Margies Cove West and Table Top trailheads offer a toilet and three small campsites with a picnic table and barbecue grill. Four small campsites are also available at Estrella Wayside Recreation Area. No water or hookups are available. Sites are first-come, first-served.
  * The BLM’s Painted Rock Campground is located about 26 miles west of Gila Bend. 

## Your Safety

This is a remote area and access roads are not maintained. Cell phones do not
work in many areas of the monument.

**Heat and Sun**

The monument's elevation ranges from 1,000 to 4,400 feet, so summer is rough
on visitors. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April.
If you are visiting in summer, take extra precautions to drink plenty of
water, as temperatures may exceed 110°F. We recommend sunscreen, sunglasses
and a hat. Weather forecast

**Water**

Bring all the water you will need. There is no drinking water available on the
monument. Plan on drinking one gallon (4 liters) per person per day—more if
you're engaged in strenuous activities.

**Your vehicle**

Make sure your gasoline tank is full, carry additional water and full-size
spare tires in your vehicle, and make sure your vehicle is in good working
condition. Winter is the most popular time to visit.

**Wildlife**

The desert sun stirs up **rattlesnakes** and other reptiles as early as
February.

**Flash floods**

Flash floods caused by sudden storms can be dangerous in washes, so it is best
to have a survival plan to prevent emergency situations. Have good maps with
you and know how to use them.

**Border Concerns**

The southern part of the monument is a corridor for drug and human smugglers.
Be alert for illegal activities and law enforcement operations.

**Respect and Protect**

The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice
outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique
environment by leaving no trace during your visit.

Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets,
fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is
prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.

Report resource crimes including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at
1-800-637-9152.

<p>The Sonoran Desert National Monument contains magnificent examples of untrammeled Sonoran Desert landscape. The monument sits in the most biologically diverse of the North American deserts and captures a significant portion of that diversity. The most striking aspect of the plant community in the monument is the extensive saguaro cactus forest. The monument contains three distinct mountain ranges, the Maricopa, Sand Tank and Table Top mountains, as well as the Booth and White hills, all separated by wide valleys. The monument also contains three congressionally designated wilderness areas, archaeological and historic sites, and remnants of several important historic trails.</p><h2>Hours and Seasons</h2><p>The monument is open 24 hours a day, year-round. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April to avoid summer heat.</p><h2>Places to Go</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/102455" rel="nofollow">North Maricopa Mountains Wilderness Area</a><ul><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/102022" rel="nofollow">Margies Cove West Campground</a>, <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/101698" rel="nofollow">Margies Cove West Trailhead</a>, <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/102080" rel="nofollow">Margies Cove East</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/102377" rel="nofollow">Brittlebrush Trailhead</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/417016" rel="nofollow">Estrella Wayside Recreation Area</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/101158" rel="nofollow">Table Top Wilderness Area</a><ul><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/100332" rel="nofollow">Table Top Trail</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/100317" rel="nofollow">Lava Flow Trail</a></li></ul></li></ul><h2>Getting Around</h2><p>Interstate 8 and State Route 238 cross the monument. Most other roads are unpaved, primitive, and not maintained. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended in some areas. More than 460 miles of posted roads are available for back country, off-highway vehicle driving and mountain biking; however, by law, vehicles and bicycles are prohibited in wilderness.</p><h2>Camping</h2><p><a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/camping" rel="nofollow">Camping on Public Lands</a></p><p><strong>Dispersed Camping</strong></p><ul><li>Dispersed camping and picnicking is allowed throughout the monument, unless otherwise posted. Desert camping allows visitors to take short scenic hikes, survey unique vegetation, and relax with friends under a blanket of stars.</li></ul><p><strong>Campgrounds</strong></p><ul><li>Two small campgrounds at <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/margies-cove-west-campground" rel="nofollow">Margies Cove West</a> and <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/100332" rel="nofollow">Table Top</a> trailheads offer a toilet and three small campsites with a picnic table and barbecue grill. Four small campsites are also available at <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/417016" rel="nofollow">Estrella Wayside Recreation Area</a>. No water or hookups are available. Sites are first-come, first-served.</li><li>The BLM’s <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/painted-rock-petroglyph-site" rel="nofollow">Painted Rock Campground</a> is located about 26 miles west of Gila Bend. </li></ul><h2>Your Safety</h2><p>This is a remote area and access roads are not maintained. Cell phones do not work in many areas of the monument.</p><p><strong>Heat and Sun</strong></p><p>The monument's elevation ranges from 1,000 to 4,400 feet, so summer is rough on visitors. It's best to enjoy the monument from late October to mid-April. If you are visiting in summer, take extra precautions to drink plenty of water, as temperatures may exceed 110°F. We recommend sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. <a href="https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?zoneid=AZZ559" rel="nofollow">Weather forecast</a></p><p><strong>Water</strong></p><p>Bring all the water you will need. There is no drinking water available on the monument. Plan on drinking one gallon (4 liters) per person per day—more if you're engaged in strenuous activities.</p><p><strong>Your vehicle</strong></p><p>Make sure your gasoline tank is full, carry additional water and full-size spare tires in your vehicle, and make sure your vehicle is in good working condition. Winter is the most popular time to visit.</p><p><strong>Wildlife</strong></p><p>The desert sun stirs up <strong>rattlesnakes</strong> and other reptiles as early as February.</p><p><strong>Flash floods</strong></p><p>Flash floods caused by sudden storms can be dangerous in washes, so it is best to have a survival plan to prevent emergency situations.  Have good <a href="https://www.blm.gov/documents/arizona-phoenix-do/public-room/map/sonoran-desert-national-monument-map" rel="nofollow">maps</a> with you and know how to use them.</p><p><strong>Border Concerns</strong></p><p>The southern part of the monument is a corridor for drug and human smugglers. Be alert for illegal activities and law enforcement operations. </p><div><p><strong>Respect and Protect</strong></p></div><div><p>The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/16816" rel="nofollow">outdoor ethics</a> and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.</p></div><div><p>Check for <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/regional-info/arizona/fire-restrictions#GID" rel="nofollow">fire restrictions</a> before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.</p></div><div><p><a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/4206" rel="nofollow">Report resource crimes</a> including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.</p></div>

Commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a special
recreation permit. Contact the monument office for more information.

Visits to the **Sand Tank Mountains** , located south of Interstate 8, require
a Barry M. Goldwater Range permit. These permits are **only available online**
and not at the local Bureau of Land Management office.

Recreational activities on any nearby state trust land require a permit from
the State of Arizona.

Sonoran Desert National Monument

Quartz Peak Trail, in the 14,400-acre Sierra Estrella Wilderness, leads
visitors from the floor of Rainbow Valley (elevation 1,550 feet) to the summit
ridge of the Sierra Estrella at Quartz Peak (elevation 4,052 feet) in just
three miles. Along the way, visitors are treated to a variety of Sonoran
Desert plants and wildlife, scenic vistas, and evidence of the area's volcanic
history.

Quartz Peak Trail is extremely steep and difficult to follow in places. This
is a hike for experienced and well-conditioned hikers only! The trail begins
at Quartz Peak Trailhead by following a closed four-wheel-drive track for
approximately 0.25 mile. Look to the left as you walk up the old road and see
a narrow trail ascending the ridge to the north. The trail is poorly marked in
places and does not extend to the summit — the final 0.25 mile to Quartz Peak
is a scramble over boulder and talus slopes that requires careful footing.
Quartz Peak is a point on the spine of the Sierra Estrella capped with an
outcrop of white quartz.

The views from the summit are spectacular. To the west, there is a dramatic
panorama of rugged mountain ranges and desert plains. To the east,
metropolitan Phoenix unfolds over the valley of the lower Salt River.

## Hours and Seasons

Trail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November
through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used due to
high temperatures.

Summer temperatures may often reach 115 degrees. Wear a hat, long sleeve
shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water!

## Features and Services

  * **Drinking Water** : There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.

  * **Toilets** : Accessible vault toilet onsite.

  * **Cell Phone and Internet:** Cell phone service may be unreliable. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.

  * **Pets** : Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Pack out all waste.

## Safety and Conditions

You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law
enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire.

While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available
on-site.

Expect potential hazards such as venomous snakes, extreme heat, and flash
floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather
warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.

## Respect and Protect

The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice
outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique
environment by leaving no trace during your visit.

Check for fire restrictions before your visit. Using exploding targets,
fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is
prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.

Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious
activity at 1-800-637-9152.

<div><p>Quartz Peak Trail, in the 14,400-acre <a href="https://www.blm.gov/node/101007" rel="nofollow">Sierra Estrella Wilderness</a>, leads visitors from the floor of Rainbow Valley (elevation 1,550 feet) to the summit ridge of the Sierra Estrella at Quartz Peak (elevation 4,052 feet) in just three miles. Along the way, visitors are treated to a variety of Sonoran Desert plants and wildlife, scenic vistas, and evidence of the area's volcanic history. </p></div><div><p>Quartz Peak Trail is extremely steep and difficult to follow in places. This is a hike for experienced and well-conditioned hikers only! The trail begins at Quartz Peak Trailhead by following a closed four-wheel-drive track for approximately 0.25 mile. Look to the left as you walk up the old road and see a narrow trail ascending the ridge to the north. The trail is poorly marked in places and does not extend to the summit — the final 0.25 mile to Quartz Peak is a scramble over boulder and talus slopes that requires careful footing. Quartz Peak is a point on the spine of the Sierra Estrella capped with an outcrop of white quartz.</p></div><div><p>The views from the summit are spectacular. To the west, there is a dramatic panorama of rugged mountain ranges and desert plains. To the east, metropolitan Phoenix unfolds over the valley of the lower Salt River.</p><div><h2>Hours and Seasons</h2></div><div><p>Trail can be used year-round; however, it is recommended for use from November through April. At other times of the year, the trail is seldom used due to high temperatures. </p></div><div><p>Summer temperatures may often reach 115 degrees. Wear a hat, long sleeve shirt, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Drink plenty of water!</p><div><h2>Features and Services</h2></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Drinking Water</strong>: There is no drinking water available. Bring plenty of water.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Toilets</strong>: Accessible vault toilet onsite.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Cell Phone and Internet:</strong> Cell phone service may be unreliable. There is no public internet or Wi-Fi.</p></li></ul></div><div><ul><li><p><strong>Pets</strong>: Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. Pack out all waste.</p></li></ul><div><h2>Safety and Conditions</h2></div><div><p>You are responsible for your own safety. Call 911 to contact local law enforcement, obtain emergency services, or report a fire.</p></div><div><p>While enjoying your visit, keep in mind that there is no first aid available on-site.</p></div><div><p>Expect potential hazards such as venomous snakes, extreme heat, and flash floods. Be prepared for changes in weather and stay informed on weather warning alerts. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, food and water.</p><div><h2>Respect and Protect</h2></div><div><p>The area is home to many species of wildlife. Please remember to practice outdoor ethics and recreate responsibly. Help us protect this unique environment by leaving no trace during your visit.</p></div><div><p>Check for <a href="https://www.blm.gov/programs/public-safety-and-fire/fire/regional-info/arizona/fire-restrictions#GID" rel="nofollow">fire restrictions</a> before your visit. Using exploding targets, fireworks, sky lanterns, tracer ammunition and other incendiary devices is prohibited on BLM-managed public land in Arizona.</p></div><div><p>Report crimes to resources including vandalism, dumping and suspicious activity at 1-800-637-9152.</p></div></div></div></div></div>

There are no permits, passes, or fees required to visit this trail or
wilderness area. It is free.

However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a
special recreation permit. Contact the local managing field office for more
information about special recreation permits.

Recreational activities on any nearby state trust land require a permit from
the State of Arizona.

Bird's eye view of the park

Quartz Peak Trail

The 14,400-acre Sierra Estrella Wilderness, located just 15 miles southwest of
Phoenix, contains one of the most rugged mountain ranges in Arizona. The
knife-edged ridgelines, steep slopes and rough, rocky canyons provide
challenges for hikers, backpackers, climbers and hunters. Butterfly Mountain
rises 2,600 feet above the desert plain to an elevation of 4,119 feet in only
two miles. The Quartz Peak Trail takes you to the summit of the Sierra
Estrella.

The extreme elevation differences have cause diverse plant and animal
communities. Plants in lower areas include saguaro and cholla, ocotillo, palo
verde, and elephant bush. Small, protected sites on top of the mountains have
shrub-live oak and even juniper. A remnant herd of desert bighorn sheep roam
the mountains and Gila monster, desert tortoise, mountain lion, mule deer,
coyote, javelina, giant spotted whiptail lizard, golden eagle, prairie falcon
and Cooper's hawk also inhabit the wilderness.

## Know Before You Go

In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities and
extraordinary opportunities for solitude. Please follow the regulations in
place for this area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when visiting to ensure
protection of its unique natural and experiential qualities.

  * Although distinguished as one of the closest wilderness areas to metropolitan Phoenix, four-wheel-drive vehicles are required to approach the wilderness boundary. Primitive dirt roads near the wilderness boundary are extremely sandy or silty, and wash crossings are rugged and deep. Only the western boundary of the wilderness is accessible to the public; elsewhere the area is bounded by the Gila River Indian Reservation.
  * Some lands around and within the wilderness are not federally administered. Please respect the property rights of the owners and do not cross or use these lands without their permission.

<p>The 14,400-acre Sierra Estrella Wilderness, located just 15 miles southwest of Phoenix, contains one of the most rugged mountain ranges in Arizona. The knife-edged ridgelines, steep slopes and rough, rocky canyons provide challenges for hikers, backpackers, climbers and hunters. Butterfly Mountain rises 2,600 feet above the desert plain to an elevation of 4,119 feet in only two miles. The <a href="https://www.blm.gov/visit/search-details/16525/2" rel="nofollow">Quartz Peak Trail</a> takes you to the summit of the Sierra Estrella.</p><p>The extreme elevation differences have cause diverse plant and animal communities. Plants in lower areas include saguaro and cholla, ocotillo, palo verde, and elephant bush. Small, protected sites on top of the mountains have shrub-live oak and even juniper. A remnant herd of desert bighorn sheep roam the mountains and Gila monster, desert tortoise, mountain lion, mule deer, coyote, javelina, giant spotted whiptail lizard, golden eagle, prairie falcon and Cooper's hawk also inhabit the wilderness.</p><h2>Know Before You Go</h2><p>In wilderness, you can enjoy challenging recreational activities and extraordinary opportunities for solitude. Please follow the regulations in place for this area, and use Leave No Trace techniques when visiting to ensure protection of its unique natural and experiential qualities.</p><ul><li>Although distinguished as one of the closest wilderness areas to metropolitan Phoenix, four-wheel-drive vehicles are required to approach the wilderness boundary. Primitive dirt roads near the wilderness boundary are extremely sandy or silty, and wash crossings are rugged and deep. Only the western boundary of the wilderness is accessible to the public; elsewhere the area is bounded by the Gila River Indian Reservation.</li><li>Some lands around and within the wilderness are not federally administered. Please respect the property rights of the owners and do not cross or use these lands without their permission.</li></ul>

There are no permits, passes, or fees required to visit this wilderness area.
It is free.

However, commercial, competitive, and large organized group events require a
special recreation permit. Contact the local managing field office for more
information about special recreation permits.

Estrella Wayside Recreation Area

Hours and Seasons

Features and Services

Respect and Protect

Directions

Stay Limit

Reviews

Nearby Parks

Sonoran Desert National Monument

Quartz Peak Trail

Sierra Estrella Wilderness