Dutchman OHV Staging Area
The Dutchman OHV Staging Area is the main access to the Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone from SR-88 (Apache Trail). Although the turn-off is not easily seen from SR-88, this large staging area was recently improved in 2022 to provide additional parking for both OHV and equestrian users. Ample parking can accomodate large groups. Please be respecful of other users; do not build firepits in the parking lot and pack-out horse droppings with you.
There are several unique non-motorized trails throughout this area, known as the Sonoran Desert Trail System. Feel free to explore the area and enjoy the beautiful Sonoran Desert, along with magnificent views of the Superstition Mountains! Please stay on marked routes; motorized vehicles must stay on motorized routes and should not drive on the non-motorized trails.
OHV use is a large attraction for Dutchman OHV Staging Area; all motorized vehicles entering the Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone need a Tonto NF OHV Permit. Vehicles parked in the staging area do not need a permit, but once you enter the Permit Zone you will need an OHV Permit. Please do not drive around the piperail; this causes resource destruction and erosion.
Check out the FAQ sheet for more information on when and where a permit is required. Please stay on designated trails and check out the Rules and Regulations of the area before heading out on the trails.
General Information
The gate remains open and no locks or gate combinations are needed. The gate will only be closed if an emergency closure (i.e. flooding, wildfire, etc.) is in place.
Year-round
Staging Area is day-use only. No camping within 1 mile of the entrance.
Permits are required for motorized vehicle use in Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone. For more information on when a permit is required, see the FAQ sheet. Purchase an OHV Permit at Recreation.gov. Permits are as follows:
- 3-day Permit: $10
- 6-month Permit: $60
- Annual Permit: $80
OHV Permits are not required for vehicles parked in the OHV Staging Area.
Restrictions
- No overnight camping and no campfires in the OHV Staging Area
- Camping is prohibited for the first mile from each access gate, with the exception of Blue Point access gate; camping is prohibited for the first two miles from this gate. See closure order for more details on camping restriction within Bulldog Canyon.
- Where camping is allowed beyond the 1 mile mark, 14 stay limit within a 30 day period.
- Pack-it-in Pack-it-out!
- Follow all State Laws such as as helmet requirements, eye protection, spark arrestor and muffler, brakes, headlight and taillight, license plate and AZ State OHV Decal, and rearview mirror. Visit Arizona Game and Fish Department's website for more information.
- Stay on designated trails; there is no access to the river within Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone.
No fees are required to park at the OHV Staging Area. Motorized vehicle use into Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone requires a Tonto NF OHV Permit, which can be purchased from Recreation.gov.
Guided tours may be available. A Special Use Permit is required to operate commercially on the Tonto National Forest. Contact your local Ranger District Office for more information.
Address: 5140 E Ingram St, Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: (480) 610-3300
Hours: Open Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (closed noon to 12:30 p.m.) Passes, permits and products not sold after 4 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Latitude / Longitude
Latitude: 33.479027
Longitude: -111.4758029
Directions
Coordinates: Latitude: 33.479106, Longitude: -111.475962
Directions:
- Exit US 60 Superstition Freeway at SR 88 Apache Trail.
- Continue northeast on SR 88 Apache Trail; access point is on your left approximately 1 mile past Lost Dutchman State Park. This access point can be hidden from vegetation and comes up quick!
See Map of Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone that includes the location of the Dutchman OHV Staging Area.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Restrooms are not available at this site.
No restrooms are currently provided, but they will be coming soon!
Water
Potable water is not available at this site.
Picnic Tables
Picnic tables are not available at this site.
Horse/Pack Animal Information
Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site.
Recreation Opportunities
Recreation Groups
Bulldog Canyon OHV Permit Zone motorized use area on the Mesa Ranger District.