RV camping near Ajo, Arizona provides access to the rich Sonoran Desert ecosystem at elevations averaging 1,750 feet. Winter temperatures typically range from 65-75°F during the day and 45-55°F at night, making it a popular destination for snowbirds from November through March. Summer brings intense heat, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument is located about 35 miles southwest of Ajo, offering multiple hiking trails through pristine desert landscapes. Visitors staying at Coyote Howls East RV Park recommend exploring during full moon evenings. "Very quiet and peaceful. Could hear coyotes off in the distance... Surprisingly peaceful," notes Rollie C.
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies around Why, Arizona provide excellent stargazing conditions. Mev W. from Coyote Howls West RV Park mentions, "Nice view of the sunset and starry skies," while Tim at Oasis RV Park adds, "You do hear the big trains coming through but the starry skies make up for that."
Local culture exploration: The town of Ajo offers historical and cultural attractions within walking distance of camping areas. "It's also nice that it's in town and you can easily walk or bike out and explore the small cute town of Ajo," shares a camper from Belly Acres RV Park.
What campers like
Community activities: Winter months bring increased social opportunities at certain parks. A camper at Coyote Howls East RV Park explains, "December came into full swing with all kinds of activities & events: Pickleball, Hiking Groups, Creative Writing Groups, Crafter Meets, Evening Dances, Potlucks, Game Nights, and so much more."
Affordability: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the reasonable rates in the area. Greg L. notes that Coyote Howls East "is like a large dispersed camping area but with numbered long-term sites, bathroom shower houses, water spigots, trash dumpsters, and wifi at library bldg," making it "a good option if you are a boondocker."
Pet amenities: Several RV parks near Ajo offer specialized pet facilities. "They have an enormous dog park where your dogs can run free," mentions a reviewer at Oasis RV Park at Aztec Hills, while at Sonoran Desert RV Park, Melinda R. found "the most amazing K-9 Park ever. 3 separate secure areas with large grass areas in two of them."
What you should know
Limited services: While basic amenities exist, some services require planning. A reviewer at Sonoran Desert RV Park notes, "There are a couple small spots for food and incidentals 2 miles away and a couple travel stops, too." For Coyote Howls West, Mev W. explains, "Nothing really in Why - a gas station, convenience store and breakfast/lunch restaurant. But it's a short (and beautiful) drive to the national monument and Ajo, if you need groceries or other supplies."
Seasonal crowding: Winter brings significantly higher occupancy. One long-term camper at Coyote Howls East reports, "We pulled in on October 2nd. Thought we would stay a week but have been here for months now," indicating the appeal of the winter season.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from various sources. Laura M. at Palms Mobile Home RV Park describes, "The night was loud here, roosters crowing (all night!), dogs barking, trains, and cars," while Tim at Oasis RV Park mentions, "You do hear the big trains coming through."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy observing desert wildlife. "We weren't planning very long there but we will be going back for a week or two soon," mentions Rollie C. at Coyote Howls East, adding, "Could hear coyotes off in the distance."
Park selection for amenities: Choose parks with family-friendly facilities for longer stays. At Sonoran Desert RV Park, Leslie J. found "a beautiful park. Sites are huge! They have full hookups, a dog park, a car washing station, laundry and a bath house."
Local food options: Kids might enjoy the unique local food options. One camper shares this tip about Belly Acres RV Park: "Pro tip: the Chevron across the street has a little separate food service establishment in the convenience store where you can get pizza, burritos, breakfast burritos, fresh baked cookies, etc to go! The pizza was surprisingly great!"
Tips from RVers
RV service planning: Schedule maintenance before arriving as repair facilities are limited. At Ajo Community Golf Course and RV Campground, Greg L. notes it's "a small RV park next to the community owned golf course. Full and partial hookups and also a dry camping area. Cell signal very good and close to AJO."
Site selection strategy: Look for parks with appropriate space for your RV size. Mev W. at Coyote Howls West explains, "Simple gravel pull-throughs. Not sure how really big rigs would do, but my little Casita snuggled in just fine with a decent amount of room around."
Utility management: Many campers operate on solar power in dry camping areas. Greg L. observes at Coyote Howls East that "no electric hookups or sewer hookups though...most folks are using solar."
