Camping sites near Anthem, Arizona range from developed campgrounds to remote dispersed locations across Sonoran Desert terrain. The area sits at approximately 1,800 feet elevation, creating milder winter temperatures compared to northern Arizona regions. Local climate patterns typically produce strong afternoon winds through desert corridors, particularly during seasonal transitions in spring and fall.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access several trails directly from Cave Creek Regional Park. The campground connects to a trail network suitable for various skill levels. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities. Some hiking trails are within walking distance of the campground, others you will need to drive to," notes Ellen W.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for wild burros throughout the region. These descendants from mining-era pack animals frequently visit campsites. At Roadrunner Campground - Lake Pleasant, one camper experienced unique wildlife encounters: "Burros would hang out in our camp grazing grass completely unfazed by the barking dogs and screaming kids."
Boating and water activities: Launch from marina facilities near campgrounds. Many campgrounds provide shuttles to boat launches. "Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," reports Margaret T. about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort. Lake access varies seasonally with water levels that can fluctuate significantly.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Space distribution varies significantly by campground. The most spacious sites tend to be in older camping loops. At Maricopa County Park Lake Pleasant, Larry G. appreciates that "sites are huge and everyone has a covered picnic table and a fire pit. Utilities are convenient and easy to use."
Sunrise and sunset views: Mountain profiles create dramatic lighting. The elevated terrain around Anthem provides expansive viewscapes. Linda T. found that at Maricopa County Park Lake Pleasant, "The views are awesome, especially at sunset and sunrise. We enjoyed every minute of our weekend."
Contrast between remote feeling and convenience: Many sites balance solitude with access. While some areas feel remote, shopping centers remain relatively close. At Pioneer RV Resort 55+, Robin P. mentions this advantage: "Close to major shopping and restaurants. Extremely quiet. I'm not real keen on high occupancy parks but I wanted to stay near Phoenix - just not in Phoenix."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Arizona State Trust Land camping requires permits. The annual permit costs $15 and allows limited stays throughout the year. At Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land, The Wanderer advises: "I DO purchase the $15-a-year permit and I DO display it. But in 2 years, I've not seen even one 'official' vehicle and have never been asked to see my permit or how long I have parked."
Road conditions to dispersed sites: Many access roads require careful navigation. Routes can deteriorate significantly during monsoon season. At Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, Russell C. reports: "Nice enough place for dispersed camping, but requires a very bumpy drive to get there."
Gate closing times: Established campgrounds enforce entry restrictions. At Cave Creek Regional Park, Nicole E. cautions: "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm."
Seasonal closures: Some popular dispersed sites face restricted access. Recent changes have affected availability at historically accessible locations. Christopher H. notes about Dispersed Camping off Hwy 74: "Unfortunately, the state has closed this area down. Brand new 'No Motor Vehicle' signs installed. This was a major travel destination for RV'rs and campers."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Several campgrounds maintain swimming pools for cooling off. This provides alternatives to lake swimming for families with small children. Bryan S. found at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort: "Descent pool and small store if you need anything. Marina for boat rentals with a shuttle to take you back and forth. Strong WiFi. Kids were able to zoom without any issues."
Educational opportunities: Visit nature centers for wildlife learning. Several parks offer structured educational programs. Chenery K. describes Cave Creek Regional Park's offerings: "They have a large Nature Center with lots of desert creatures inside including a big fat rattlesnake, gila monster, black widow spider and some scorpions to safely check out up close, plus a big outdoor enclosure for a desert tortoise."
Desert hazards: Cacti pose risks for curious children and pets. Many camping areas feature dense cactus fields that require careful supervision. At Old Airstrip Camping & Staging Area, CrookedSnake shares a warning: "All the cacti so close is a bit hazardous for pets and small children, my dog already got spines in her paws."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose different areas based on trip purposes. Pleasant Harbor offers multiple camping sections with varying amenities. Robert G. explains: "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort: 1) In the resort with Full Hookups, 2) Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site), 3) Out on the 'flat' with no hookups (can also tent/car camp)."
Age restrictions: Verify campground policies before booking. Some RV parks maintain age limits. Multiple reviewers note Pioneer RV Resort's 55+ policy, with Jeremiah M. confirming it offers "Full hookups, pull through and back in sites. Most are level. Great amenities."
Dump station access: Plan for dump station locations if booking partial hookup sites. Some campgrounds offer on-site dump stations while others require traveling to separate facilities. Ted S. notes about Pleasant Harbor RV Resort: "Sites are rustic, they've water and electricity, no sewer. There's a dump station as you leave the park."
