The One Incredible Sand Dune Every Arizonan Must Explore
By Catherine Armstrong|Published August 14, 2017
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Arizona’s desert landscape might seem forbidding, but it’s also beautiful – and full of recreation opportunities. Whether you bring an ATV, dune buggy or dirt bike, Hot Wells Dunes Recreation Area is a place you must explore.
Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area is in the middle of nowhere, but it's well worth the trip. You'll find it about 32 miles southeast of Stafford.
This 2,000-acre recreation area is overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, and it's pretty rustic. You'll find a small campground with 10 campsites, vault toilets and some soaking tubs. You'll want to bring plenty of water - there's no fresh water available here.
The fee to enjoy this park? Just $3 per vehicle, per day! Make sure that your vehicles have safety flags - this pretty spot can get crowded during winter months and you'll want to make sure you're visible to other riders.
After a long day of riding, you might want to check out the soaking tubs. An artesian well pumps out 106-degree water into the tubs, making them the perfect spot for a relaxing soak. These tubs are not clothing-optional, however, so bring a swimsuit with you.