Arizona's desert camping areas near Gilbert offer varied terrain from 1,200 to 2,800 feet elevation. The Superstition Mountain range creates natural barriers with dramatic temperature changes between exposed desert and shaded canyon areas. Winter nights can drop below 40°F while maintaining pleasant daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range, creating ideal conditions for seasonal campers.
What to do
Hiking at base of mountains: Lost Dutchman State Park provides direct access to numerous trails with varying difficulty levels. "Perfect for just getting away for the weekend. Only a 45 minute drive from the house, yet far enough that you still feel like you got away. Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views," notes camper Chad E.
Mountain biking nearby trails: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers extensive mountain biking opportunities across different skill levels. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," shares Marty P.
Observe wildlife and night skies: Bulldog Canyon provides more remote experiences for wildlife viewing. "For us Washingtonians, camping in the desert amongst the saguaros was perfect. Sunsets were so pretty. We heard coyotes in the night, which was exciting," notes a visitor. Plan for evening temperatures that drop quickly after sunset.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: The Mesa-Apache Junction KOA receives high marks for its upkeep. "The spaces have very little shade if any! The KOA features a small fenced playground with a tetherball, swing set, merry go round, and a table with an umbrella," explains one camper detailing the amenities.
Spacious camping areas: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers generously sized sites. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit. The park has tons of trails for hiking and MTN biking," reports Julie F.
Desert landscape immersion: The Sonoran Desert environment creates unique camping backdrops. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," shares a visitor about their experience at Lost Dutchman State Park.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Bulldog Canyon requires advance permits that recently changed in cost and duration. "They also just changed the price from $6 for 6 months to $80 for the year," notes Matt F. about the area's access requirements.
Site reservations fill quickly: Plan well ahead for popular camping areas. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises a Lost Dutchman visitor. Many campgrounds book completely during peak season from November through March.
High clearance vehicles needed: Many dispersed camping sites require appropriate vehicles. "You might be able to get back there without 4x4 but certainly it is strongly recommended. Very rough road and about a 2 mile drive," warns a camper about accessing remote camping spots.
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions at some sites: Not all campgrounds welcome children. "When she showed up, she was told she would have to leave as children were not welcome. They should've caught this in the reservation information weeks in advance," warns a visitor about age restrictions at one RV resort.
Noise considerations: Sound carries in desert camping areas. "The campground was great! Clean and nice bathrooms with showers, nice places to park. Gorgeous views of the mountains. The only complaint is that it's a little crowded," notes a visitor.
Playground access: The Mesa Gardens RV Park provides kid-friendly amenities. "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs. Park is fully fenced with gate. Very clean and well kept," reports Julie S., making it suitable for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection caution: Check dimensions carefully when booking RV sites. "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig. Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," advises an RVer.
Central convenience: Some RV parks offer strategic locations for exploring the region. "Great campground centrally located to Phoenix and Scottsdale. Was only planning to stay 2 nights but ended up extending my stay. Full hookups and laundry/showers in house," notes a reviewer.
Winter stays: Snowbirds find ideal conditions from November through April. "One of my favorite winter camp spots," shares a camper about the moderate temperatures during cooler months when daytime highs average 65-75°F.
