If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Southeastern Arizona offers some of the most secluded and serene towns I’ve ever visited. Nestled among rolling hills, desert landscapes, and majestic mountains, these hidden gems provide a peaceful retreat where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
From quaint border communities to remote mountain gateways, each town has its own unique charm and captivating beauty. Join me as I count down my top 25 secluded towns in Southeast Arizona, perfect for those seeking solitude and a slower pace of life.
25. Sunsites: Desert Peace in the Shadow of the Dragoons
Sunsites is a quiet community nestled in the Sulphur Springs Valley, where the Dragoon Mountains rise like ancient sentinels to the west. Life here moves at a pace dictated by the sun and the seasons, with few distractions beyond the call of quail in the mesquite and the soft hum of the wind.
The town feels remote because it is—tucked miles from any major highway, surrounded by wide-open rangeland and sprawling desert. You might spend your days exploring the trails of Cochise Stronghold, wandering the local farmers’ market, or simply watching the stars spill across a night sky untouched by city lights.
Most residents are retirees, artists, or those working in small-scale agriculture. It’s the kind of place where every neighbor knows your name, and the quiet becomes part of who you are.
Where is Sunsites?
Sunsites sits in southeastern Cochise County, about 30 miles south of Willcox and an hour’s drive east of Tucson. You reach it by way of State Route 191, following long stretches of open road bordered by desert plains.
The journey feels like slipping into another world, one defined by mountain silhouettes and endless sky. It’s close enough for a weekend trip, yet far enough to feel like the rest of the world has simply faded away.
24. Pearce: A Ghost Town with Life Left in It
Pearce may be small, but its history is larger than life—once a bustling gold and silver mining hub, now a sleepy remnant of its past. The handful of residents here live among weathered storefronts and creaking wooden porches that whisper of the Old West.
Its seclusion comes from both its location—tucked away off State Route 181—and the sheer quiet that lingers in the air. Visitors come to explore the ruins, browse local art studios, and visit nearby Chiricahua National Monument for its surreal rock spires.
Cattle ranching and heritage tourism keep the town’s heart beating slowly but steadily. Pearce has a way of making time feel like it stopped a century ago, which is precisely its magic.
Where is Pearce?
Pearce lies in the southwestern corner of Cochise County, about 30 miles southeast of Benson. The easiest route is via State Route 191, with a turn onto 181 leading you into its historic main street.
Surrounded by desert and distant peaks, the road there feels almost too quiet—until you realize that’s exactly the point.
23. Mescal: Gateway to the Old West
Mescal isn’t just a town—it’s a living movie set. Once used for filming Westerns, this unincorporated area is wrapped in desert solitude and cinematic history.
It’s far from bustling cities, accessible mainly by I-10 and a short desert drive, which keeps it hidden from casual travelers. You might take a guided tour of Mescal Movie Set, photograph the saguaros at sunset, or explore the surrounding BLM lands.
A few ranches and film tourism provide the economic spark, but otherwise, life here is hushed. Standing in the middle of the dusty street, you can almost hear the echo of cowboy boots from decades past.
Where is Mescal?
Located in Pima County, Mescal sits just east of Tucson, off Interstate 10. From the highway, it takes only a few minutes to reach, but the change in atmosphere is instant—suddenly you’re in a place where time feels measured in sunsets, not schedules.
Its position near the foothills and far from suburban sprawl deepens the sense of stepping into another era.
22. Bonita: Fields, Forest, and Forgotten Roads
Bonita is more a collection of ranches and fields than a traditional town, but that’s exactly why it feels so secluded. Hidden north of Willcox in an area known for agriculture and timber, Bonita is surrounded by rolling farmlands that eventually give way to the Coronado National Forest.
The roads here are quiet, often just gravel or dirt, leading to pastures where cattle graze under big skies. Hunting, hiking, and seasonal harvest events are among the few activities—unless you count porch-sitting and watching the world go by.
Ranching is the lifeblood of the community, and visitors often leave with a sense that they’ve discovered something untouched.
Where is Bonita?
Bonita is located in Graham County, about 20 miles north of Willcox, and is reached via State Route 266. The drive is a patchwork of farmland, mesquite groves, and distant mountain views. Once you arrive, the silence feels complete, as if the world beyond is a hundred miles away.
21. Paradise: A Mountain Hideaway
Paradise is a tiny former mining settlement tucked high in the Chiricahua Mountains, where pine forests meet crisp mountain air. Once a bustling gold-mining camp in the late 1800s, it’s now home to just a handful of residents, a historic cemetery, and the charming George Walker House guest lodge.
Its seclusion comes from both its elevation and the narrow, winding mountain road that leads here, far from any main thoroughfare. Visitors often come to hike nearby trails, hunt for gemstones, or simply enjoy the cool shade of the pines in summer.
With no stores, gas stations, or modern bustle, life in Paradise unfolds slowly. It’s the sort of place where the sound of the wind through the trees becomes the soundtrack of your day.
Where is Paradise?
Paradise is located in far southeastern Cochise County, near the New Mexico border, deep in the Coronado National Forest. You reach it via State Route 80 and Forest Road 42, a scenic climb through canyons and switchbacks.
By the time you arrive, the rest of Arizona feels far away, replaced by quiet mountain beauty and the scent of pine.
20. Tres Alamos: A Riverside Retreat
Tres Alamos is a tiny settlement along the San Pedro River, where cottonwood groves shelter wildlife and the air smells faintly of mesquite smoke. The town’s obscurity comes from its location off the main routes, with only ranch roads leading in.
Activities here revolve around the river—fishing, kayaking during the wet season, and birdwatching year-round. Small farms and cattle ranches dot the landscape, and the quiet is punctuated only by the calls of herons and hawks.
For those who seek nature as their neighbor, Tres Alamos is an easy place to fall in love with.
Where is Tres Alamos?
Situated in Cochise County, Tres Alamos lies northwest of Benson, reached by dirt roads from State Route 77. The journey winds through desert plains before giving way to lush riverbanks, a sudden change that feels like stumbling on a secret oasis.
19. Kansas Settlement: Agriculture at the Edge of Nowhere
Kansas Settlement is a community defined by vast agricultural fields under endless Arizona skies. Miles from any major town, its grid of dirt roads stretches between pecan orchards, hay farms, and cattle pastures.
Life here revolves around farming seasons, with few distractions beyond local gatherings and sunsets that set the whole horizon aflame. The nearest store is often a drive away, reinforcing the feeling of remoteness.
It’s the kind of place where the silence is so deep you can hear the wings of passing doves.
Where is Kansas Settlement?
Located about 15 miles southeast of Willcox, Kansas Settlement is reached by long, straight county roads from U.S. Route 191. The openness of the landscape means you can see for miles, yet the absence of traffic or development makes it feel like the edge of the map.
18. Double Adobe: Quiet Canyons and Desert Trails
Double Adobe sits in the rolling hills south of McNeal, where desert grasslands meet rocky outcrops. This unincorporated area has a few scattered homes, a school, and plenty of open space.
Its seclusion comes from being tucked off the main routes, with only narrow country roads to connect it to nearby towns. Hiking, birdwatching, and exploring old homesteads are favorite pastimes.
Ranching and small farms keep the local economy grounded, while the quiet surroundings feel like a world apart.
Where is Double Adobe?
Double Adobe is in Cochise County, about 12 miles north of Douglas, reached via State Route 80 and local roads. The trip takes you through gentle hills and pastures, and once you arrive, it’s easy to forget you’re just a short drive from the border.
17. Gleeson: A Mining Ghost Town in the Hills
Gleeson is a semi-abandoned former mining town perched in the Dragoon Mountains. A few residents still call it home, but most buildings are weathered relics from its copper, silver, and turquoise boom days.
Its seclusion is due to its remote mountain location and the winding roads that lead here. Visitors explore the old jail, rusting mining equipment, and panoramic views over the Sulphur Springs Valley.
Tourism is minimal, keeping the place eerily quiet—just the way the locals like it.
Where is Gleeson?
Gleeson is located northeast of Tombstone, reached via Gleeson Road from State Route 80. The drive is a twisting ribbon through desert hills, with few signs of modern life.
Standing in its dusty streets, it’s easy to imagine you’ve slipped into another century.
16. Huachuca City: Gateway to Quiet Desert
Huachuca City is a small community along the upper San Pedro Valley, known for its wide-open skies and proximity to untouched desert landscapes. While it’s close to the military presence of Fort Huachuca, the town itself moves at a much slower pace, with modest neighborhoods and long stretches of open land in every direction.
Its seclusion comes from being bypassed by most travelers heading to Sierra Vista or Tombstone, leaving its streets peaceful and unhurried. Visitors can explore nearby San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area, wander through local antique shops, or take scenic drives into the Huachuca Mountains.
Many residents work in nearby towns but return home to a place where the sunsets are vivid and the nights are still. It’s the kind of town that quietly keeps to itself, letting the desert speak louder than anything else.
Where is Huachuca City?
Huachuca City is in Cochise County, about 15 miles north of Sierra Vista along State Route 90. The drive there cuts through open desert valleys with distant mountain backdrops, giving the approach a wide, expansive feel.
It’s close enough to amenities for convenience, yet far enough to preserve the calm that defines small-town desert life.
15. Cochise Stronghold: Legends in the Rocks
This isn’t a town so much as a small settlement and campground tucked deep in the Dragoon Mountains. Known for its towering granite cliffs and historical ties to Apache leader Cochise, the area is a sanctuary for hikers, climbers, and history buffs.
It’s secluded because there’s just one winding road in, ending in a cul-de-sac of rock and sky. Life here is quiet, shaped by the rhythms of nature rather than a clock.
The few who live nearby tend to work in tourism or ranching. The sense of history is palpable, making it a place where every shadow tells a story.
Where is Cochise Stronghold?
Located west of Sunsites in Cochise County, it’s reached via Ironwood Road off State Route 191. The road climbs into a world of massive boulders and cool pine groves, far from the desert flats. Once you’re in the canyon, the rest of the world might as well not exist.
14. Willcox Playa: Vast Silence by the Water’s Edge
Willcox Playa is a seasonal lakebed turned birdwatching haven, ringed by desert plains. The only “town” element is a scattering of ranches and a few facilities for wildlife enthusiasts.
It’s secluded due to its flat, empty surroundings and the fact that most travelers speed past on I-10 without realizing it’s there. Sandhill cranes fill the sky in winter, drawing birders from afar.
The rest of the year, it’s a vast and empty place where the silence seems endless.
Where is Willcox Playa?
Just south of Willcox in Cochise County, the playa is accessed by county roads branching off State Route 191. The journey takes you into open land where the horizon feels impossibly far.
Arriving is like stepping into a painting of the desert at its most expansive.
13. Fort Bowie: History at the End of a Trail
Fort Bowie isn’t a typical town—it’s the remnants of a frontier fort, accessible only by hiking trail. Its isolation is built in; you must walk 1.5 miles through rolling hills to reach it.
Once there, the ruins and interpretive signs tell stories of Apache warriors, Buffalo Soldiers, and pioneer struggles. The journey itself is part of the experience, with wildflowers, old cemeteries, and sweeping views along the way.
Rangers and historians keep the site alive, but it remains wonderfully untouched by modern noise.
Where is Fort Bowie?
Located southeast of Willcox, the fort lies within the Dos Cabezas Mountains and is accessed via Apache Pass Road and the Fort Bowie Trailhead. The hike in removes you from the world of cars and asphalt, replacing it with wind, birdsong, and the crunch of gravel underfoot.
12. Pirtleville: Borderland Quiet
Pirtleville is a small community adjacent to Douglas but with a distinctly slower, quieter feel. Set away from main highways and commercial centers, it’s a mix of modest homes, open lots, and dusty streets.
The atmosphere is neighborly and unhurried, with small local shops and plenty of space. People here work in Douglas or on nearby ranches.
It’s the kind of place where the horizon always feels wide, and the evenings are punctuated by the soft glow of distant lights.
Where is Pirtleville?
Pirtleville is in Cochise County, just east of Douglas, and is reached via local roads from State Route 80. It’s close to amenities yet feels separate, buffered by open land and quiet streets. That balance makes it both accessible and deeply peaceful.
11. Palominas: Green in the Desert
Palominas is a rural community along the San Pedro River, where irrigation and riverbanks keep the land unexpectedly lush. It’s tucked away on the backroads between Sierra Vista and Bisbee, far from the interstate and commercial sprawl.
The community is small and friendly, with a focus on ranching, gardening, and outdoor life. Birdwatchers and hikers come for the nearby nature preserves, while locals enjoy cool evenings on wide porches.
Palominas is one of those rare desert places where green fields meet mountain views, and peace is easy to find.
Where is Palominas?
Located in southern Cochise County, Palominas is reached via State Route 92 south from Sierra Vista. The drive follows rolling hills and open valleys, ending in a riverside community that feels a world apart from Arizona’s busy corridors.
10. Naco: A Quiet Cross-Border Community
Naco is a small town with a population of around 1,000 residents, offering a peaceful atmosphere right along the U.S.-Mexico border. I enjoy visiting its local golf course and exploring the historic sites that tell stories of its rich past.
The main industries here revolve around border trade and local services, contributing to a close-knit community feel. What makes Naco truly secluded is its location away from major highways and the absence of urban noise, allowing you to experience tranquility in a unique cross-border setting.
Where is Naco?
Located in Cochise County, Naco sits directly on the border with its sister city, Naco, Sonora, Mexico. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from bustling cities and limited through traffic.
To get there, I usually take State Route 92 south from Bisbee, enjoying a scenic drive through the rolling hills and desert landscapes. Naco’s remote location makes it a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to unwind in a quiet community.
9. McNeal: Wide Open Spaces and Tranquility
McNeal is a tiny unincorporated community with a population of just over 200 people. One of my favorite activities here is bird watching at the nearby Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, especially during the migratory season.
Agriculture is the main industry, with vast fields and ranch lands defining the area. The large lot sizes and minimal development contribute to a serene atmosphere, making McNeal an ideal spot for those who appreciate rural living and wide open spaces.
Where is McNeal?
Situated in the Sulphur Springs Valley of Cochise County, McNeal lies between Bisbee and Douglas. Its seclusion is due to its remote rural setting and sparse population.
To reach McNeal, I drive along U.S. Route 191 and turn onto State Route 80, enjoying the expansive views of the desert plains. The quiet roads and surrounding agricultural land emphasize the tranquility and isolation of this peaceful community.
8. San Simon: Solitude in the Borderlands
San Simon is a small town with approximately 165 residents, offering a quiet lifestyle near the Arizona-New Mexico border. I appreciate its proximity to the Peloncillo Mountains, which provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural landscapes.
The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and ranching, contributing to its rural charm. San Simon’s vast open spaces and minimal commercial development make it a secluded haven away from the busy world.
Where is San Simon?
Located in eastern Cochise County, San Simon is right off Interstate 10 near the state line. Its isolation comes from the surrounding desert and mountains, and the distance from major urban centers.
When I travel there, I take Interstate 10 east from Tucson, enjoying the journey through the desert vistas. The town’s remote location and sparse population provide a sense of solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere.
7. Cochise: Rural Living Under Big Skies
Cochise is a small community with around 50 residents, known for its expansive ranch lands and stunning views of the Dragoon Mountains. I love visiting the historic Cochise Hotel and exploring the area’s rich history linked to the famous Apache leader, Chief Cochise.
Agriculture and ranching are the primary industries here, lending to its rural character. The low housing density and vast landscapes offer a peaceful environment far removed from city life.
Where is Cochise?
Nestled in the San Simon Valley, Cochise is accessible via U.S. Route 191 and State Route 186. Its seclusion is due to its remote location amidst the desert plains and the backdrop of nearby mountain ranges.
When I drive to Cochise, the journey itself feels like stepping back in time, away from the modern rush. The town’s isolation and serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility under vast Arizona skies.
6. Bowie: Quiet Desert Community
Bowie is a small unincorporated community with a population of about 500 people. The town is famous for the nearby Fort Bowie National Historic Site, where I enjoy hiking and learning about the area’s rich history.
Agriculture, especially pecan and pistachio farming, is a significant industry here. Bowie’s remote location in the desert plains and its sparse settlement provide a sense of seclusion and a taste of authentic desert living.
Where is Bowie?
Found in Cochise County along Interstate 10, Bowie is situated between Willcox and San Simon. Its isolation is heightened by the vast deserts and mountains that surround it.
I generally access Bowie via Interstate 10, and the quiet stretches of highway contribute to the feeling of remoteness. The town’s distance from larger cities and its tranquil environment make it an ideal getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
5. Sasabe: Secluded Border Outpost
Sasabe is an extremely small community with a population of less than 50 people, located right on the U.S.-Mexico border. One of the things I find fascinating here is the Rancho de la Osa Guest Ranch, offering a historic and rustic retreat experience.
The town’s main industry revolves around border services and ranching. Surrounded by vast desert landscapes and minimal human habitation, Sasabe offers a profound sense of isolation and peace.
Where is Sasabe?
Located in Pima County, Sasabe sits along State Route 286. Its seclusion is magnified by its position in the Altar Valley, far from urban centers and major roads.
When I visit Sasabe, the drive through the Sonoran Desert emphasizes the remoteness of the journey. The town’s location amidst untouched desert terrain makes it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
4. Dragoon: Serenity Amidst Historic Peaks
Dragoon is a small unincorporated community home to around 200 residents. I enjoy exploring the nearby Texas Canyon, known for its spectacular granite rock formations and bouldering opportunities.
The area doesn’t have significant industry, contributing to its quiet ambiance. Nestled near the Dragoon Mountains, the low population density and untouched natural surroundings offer a serene environment that’s perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Where is Dragoon?
Dragoon is located in Cochise County, just north of Interstate 10 between Benson and Willcox. Its seclusion stems from its mountainous surroundings and absence of urban development.
When I travel there, I often take the scenic exit off the interstate into Texas Canyon, which enhances the feeling of stepping into a hidden world. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make it a charming escape from everyday life.
3. Elgin: Vineyards in Seclusion
Elgin is a small community with a population of around 160 people, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and wineries. I love touring the local wineries and tasting rooms, savoring the unique flavors of Arizona wines.
The main industry here is viticulture, which adds a touch of sophistication to its rural setting. The expansive acreages and minimal development provide a peaceful retreat, making Elgin a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts seeking tranquility.
Where is Elgin?
Situated in Santa Cruz County, Elgin lies along State Route 82, nestled in the rolling grasslands of the Sonoita Valley. Its seclusion is due to its rural location and the surrounding open landscapes.
When I visit Elgin, the drive through the scenic highways, dotted with ranches and vineyards, adds to the sense of escape. The town’s remote setting and serene environment make it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the finer things in life.
2. Portal: Gateway to the Chiricahua Mountains
Portal is a tiny unincorporated community with a population of about 50 people, located at the entrance of Cave Creek Canyon. I find it to be a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering incredible hiking, bird watching, and stargazing opportunities.
There isn’t much in the way of industry, which enhances its peaceful atmosphere. Portal’s remote setting among rugged landscapes makes it an ideal location for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Portal?
Located in Cochise County near the New Mexico border, Portal is accessible via State Route 80 and Portal Road. Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding Chiricahua Mountains and the limited number of residents.
When I make the journey to Portal, the winding roads through dramatic canyons and dense forests create a sense of entering a secluded world. The town’s isolation and natural beauty make it a hidden gem in Southeast Arizona.
1. Arivaca: A Hidden Gem Near the Border
Arivaca is an unincorporated community with approximately 700 residents, surrounded by rolling hills and ranch lands. I enjoy exploring the historic Arivaca Cienega Trail and visiting the local art galleries that showcase regional talent.
The area doesn’t have a significant industrial presence, which contributes to its tranquil atmosphere. Arivaca’s remote location and the vast natural landscapes around it make it a secluded retreat perfect for those wanting to get away from it all.
Where is Arivaca?
Situated in Pima County, Arivaca is located about 60 miles southwest of Tucson, near the Mexican border. Its seclusion comes from its distance from major highways and urban centers, nestled within the picturesque high desert.
When I drive to Arivaca, the journey through scenic backroads enhances the feeling of escape. The town’s hidden location and serene surroundings make it a true gem for anyone seeking peace and quiet in Southeast Arizona.
