Cave Creek Regional Park offers dispersed camping options within 30 miles of Anthem, Arizona. The park includes 35 sites with electric and water hookups situated in the northern Phoenix metropolitan area at an elevation of 2,000 feet. The desert landscape features saguaro cacti, desert wildflowers, and mountain views with temperatures ranging from 40°F at night to over 100°F during summer days.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: Cave Creek Regional Park provides numerous hiking options for all skill levels. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," notes Ellen W. about Cave Creek Regional Park. Some trails connect directly to the campground while others require a short drive.
Nature Center exploration: Take time to visit the educational facilities at White Tank Mountain. "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," according to Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain.
Off-road adventures: Boulders OHV Area offers extensive terrain for off-road enthusiasts. "Miles of desert and washes to explore with tons of dispersed camping sites. Nearby washes lead to tons of trails near castle hot springs that can lead to various abounded mine sites (including Anderson Mill)," writes Caitlin S.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Sites at Usery Mountain Regional Park provide ample room between neighbors. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit," shares Julie F. about her stay at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Cleanliness of facilities: Many campgrounds maintain excellent standards. "Campsite is clean and very easy to reserve ahead of time on the supported website which is very easy to use and see all the items open," notes Brad B. about Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
Desert wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to observe native species. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," comments Rebecca G. about her experience at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some parks restrict after-hours access. "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm," warns Nicole E. about Cave Creek Regional Park. Check specific entrance policies when making reservations.
Limited shade: Most campsites in the region have minimal coverage from the sun. "No shade here at all but otherwise pretty decent. My spot had water and electric," reports Chris P. about Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Seasonal considerations: The best time for glamping in Anthem, Arizona is during cooler months. "Obviously not ideal camping in the summer but GREAT for the fall/winter/spring months," advises Caitlin S. about Boulders OHV Area.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreation areas for children. "The KOA features a small fenced playground with a tetherball, swing set, merry go round, and a table with an umbrella," describes Krista Z. about Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Educational programs: Look for ranger-led activities. "I've also joined two ranger-led hikes here (Black Rock Loop for sunrise hikes) as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation," shares Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain.
Pet-friendly options: Many sites accommodate four-legged family members. "Really happy with this koa journey. Thoughtfully organized with large pull through spots, picnic tables and loca cactus flare," notes Caitlin B., who found the Mesa-Apache Junction KOA welcoming for pets.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: RV campers should note site configurations. "The spaces are large and spread out making it a great fit for tent campers or RV campers," explains Crystal C. about White Tank Mountain. Sites vary from back-in to pull-through options.
Hookup details: Check utility connections before booking. "Sites are clean and most level with mix of electric and non electric. Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises Debbie W. about Cave Creek Group Site.
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies throughout the region. "Nice park, level sites, spotless bathhouses... Only down side is remote location," reports Chuck T. about Cave Creek Regional Park, highlighting the importance of checking accessibility.