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Best Campgrounds near Apache Junction, AZ

712 Reviews

Apache Junction, located at the eastern edge of the Phoenix metropolitan area, provides a blend of developed campgrounds and dispersed camping options in the Sonoran Desert. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping accommodations with the dramatic Superstition Mountains as a backdrop. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at Bulldog Canyon and along Peralta Road, requiring permits from the Tonto National Forest. The Mesa-Apache Junction KOA features full hookups, a heated pool, and cabins for those seeking more amenities, while Hackamore Road offers free dispersed camping for self-sufficient travelers.

Camping is available year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F from June through September, making winter the peak season. Most developed campgrounds in the region remain open throughout the year, but dispersed camping in forest service areas may have seasonal fire restrictions during hot, dry periods. Permits are required for Bulldog Canyon and other Tonto National Forest dispersed camping areas, with varying stay limits depending on location. Lost Dutchman State Park and other established campgrounds typically require reservations, especially during the busy winter months. A visitor noted, "We stayed here for two nights while visiting family and friends in the area. Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road."

The Superstition Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for many camping areas near Apache Junction, creating spectacular sunrise and sunset views. Developed campgrounds like Lost Dutchman State Park and Usery Mountain Regional Park maintain high ratings for their cleanliness, spacious sites, and proximity to hiking trails. Several campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities. According to a camper at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, "The campground is large and the spots have plenty of space. Campground staff is great." Visitors consistently mention the desert landscape, wildlife viewing opportunities, and nearby ghost towns and historical sites as highlights of camping in this area. Despite being close to the Phoenix metropolitan area, many sites offer a sense of desert solitude with panoramic mountain views.

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Best Camping Sites Near Apache Junction, Arizona (254)

    1. Lost Dutchman State Park Campground

    83 Reviews
    Superstition Mtn, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4485

    $35 - $99 / night

    "After several years away from camping, we are quickly learning the ropes."

    "It kind of poked off the main loop away from other neighbors which is why we picked it, very close to the mtb trail and easy access to the trail leading to siphon draw. Very little shade."

    2. Usery Mountain Regional Park

    35 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 984-0032

    "Campground is about 15 minutes from Apache Junction but still secluded. Great weekend getaway."

    "Beautiful views, water, electic, dump station near sites, very clean campground. Close to Phoenix, Apache Junction and surrounding areas."

    3. Mesa-Apache Junction KOA

    18 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 982-4015

    "This KOA sits on the outskirts of Apache Junction, which itself isn't Phoenix proper but an eastern suburb. The RV park has all of the basics: power, water, sewer plus a pool and a level, clean site."

    "We had plenty of space between us and adjacent sites. The whole KOA has some nice touches as far as landscaping, sites with grills, etc. Very clean and well kept."

    4. Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping - North Entrance

    27 Reviews
    Fort Mcdowell, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $10 - $80 / night

    "I use the north entrance off Bush highway. I've camped here 5 or 6 times. No water or bathrooms. Leave no trace. You need a permit and gate code. Most ATVers but not loud during the week."

    "This is a nice area if you like to off road. We take our trailer out for the weekend to get out of the city. It’s an hour from Tempe/ Phoenix."

    5. Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    18 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    "Enjoyed our December visit to Lake Marina campsite 201. Will say campsites are close together. Awesome families close to us made it fun."

    "So if you had sleepless because of noise and did not call for assistants shame.on you not canyon lake. The gentleman i checked in with would corrected the situation."

    6. Tortilla Campground

    16 Reviews
    Tortilla Flat, AZ
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 610-3300

    $20 / night

    "The road is close by, but you don’t hear much of anything after dark.  "

    "For all the commotion nearby, the campground hears none of it."

    7. Hackamore Road Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 580-5500

    "It's on BLM land, so you are out of the reach of the Arizona Land Permits. The road is a bit tricky."

    "It’s got great views of the mountains, TONS of awesome trails to walk/ride love the access to the little ghost town nearby."

    8. Peralta Road Dispersed Camping

    9 Reviews
    Gold Canyon, AZ
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "Drive through the town of Gold Canyon AZ, and you quickly leave behind the sprawl of suburban Phoenix, but embrace the sprawling landscape of the Sonoran Desert which is brimming with life in the spring"

    "* It's Arizona...but there's GREEN stuff everywhere.

    • Great view of the mountains here.
    • Saguaro cacti everywhere.
    • I fed some carrots to a horse this morning.
    • The main road is pretty"

    9. Encore Countryside

    6 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "Great Campground, close to everything."

    10. Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping

    4 Reviews
    Apache Junction, AZ
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 983-0333

    $30 - $40 / night

    "It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating."

    "Great trails out from camp. Water at corrals. Nice showers and restroom a short walk away. Plan to go back!!"

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Recent Camping Photos near Apache Junction, AZ

158 Photos of 254 Apache Junction Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Apache Junction, AZ

712 Reviews of 254 Apache Junction Campgrounds

  • Jaimy M.
    Oct. 18, 2025

    Box Bar Road Dispersed

    Box bar rec area

    Three pretty small parking lots to choose from. Mostly just open space that you camp in. There are dumpsters for trash and a vault toilet. There was so much trash around the entire recreation area even next to the river! I’ll never understand the thought process of people littering especially in nature! There’re wild horses and a few people fishing but still very peaceful!

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Goldfield Ghost Town Dry Camping

    Fun Ghost town and Camping

    We happened upon this cool campground on our way to the state park that doesn’t have check in until 2 even though when I called at 9 they had tons of sites open. The Goldmine sites are clean and level. All have fire pits and most have a picnic table. It was fun to walk right up to the town and walk around. Cowboy Dan who owns and runs the steakhouse is hilarious and his wait staff was helpful and accommodating. They have train rides and you can visit a mine. The coffee shop opens at 9 and they have a great menu for breakfast, lunch and snack time. The restrooms are clean and the camp host was very helpful. We were able to unload our side by side and we traveled up to Tortilla Flats where you can have lunch and then onto Apache Lake and campground. That road does require 4 WD but we did see a Tesla on it so I guess if you like a challenge and don’t have 4WD then anything is possible!!
    Great spot and cheaper than the state park for dry camping $30 here and the same price for hook ups here $50.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Apache Lake Marina & Resort

    Middle of no where but amazing

    This is out in the middle of nowhere but simply amazing location. The lake has amazing views and park is nice and level. Has a grocery store and restaurant as well. Worth the trip to stay at this lake.

  • Alisa P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Canyon Lake Marina & Campground

    Nice location on the water

    This campground is right on the water. Close to Tortilla Flat which is a cool spot for the whole family. Lots of boats in the marina but we never say one on the lake. We did see kayakers and paddle boards those were venturing up the river. Road is very twisty on the way here but paved the whole way. Great spot!

  • N
    Oct. 5, 2025

    Hackamore Road Dispersed

    The Beginning

    I went and personally checked out this dispersed camping area that's about half a click or so away from the Goldfield Ghost Town.

    Hackamore Road is a straight up OHV Trail, and last night I learned that on a total whim.

    I'm confident enough to hop on here and say that it was a pretty nice experience overall. There were some dudes shredding it pretty late last night, (pretty sure I overheard them mentioning their tire got flat).

    So expect a little bit of company; although no one bothered me

    The coyotes started howling around 4am, but they started dying down after they had migrated.

    I'm a country guy so the sounds don't really bother me, but if you're particular about your sleep I would recommend bringing a camping trailer + earmuff combo.

    The ground is hard as concrete, but I have no complaints. I got some of the best sleep I've had in a long time.

  • Hans V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Cave Creek Regional Park

    Cactus place

    Nice campground, serene with a large cactus next to every spot. Power and water at the spot, toilets & bathrooms available.

  • Stacy R.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    High Chaparral RV Park

    100 Out of 10 – The Ultimate Adult RV Community in Arizona!

    We stayed 4-months last winter as snowbirds at High Chaparral RV Resort, and all I can say is this place is a 100 out of 10! This isn’t just an RV resort—it’s a full-on adult community bursting with FUN and SUN. The management here goes above and beyond to keep everyone entertained. From casino nights with real tables, dealers, and prizes, to bingo nights, live concerts, unbelievable cookouts, pickleball tournaments, frisbee golf, ladies’ luncheons, and the guys’ morning coffee gatherings—there is ALWAYS something happening. It’s impossible to be bored here. The 24-hour pool and spa was perfect for relaxing any time of day, and the whole community vibe makes you feel like you’re part of one big family. The staff is beyond amazing—friendly, helpful, and genuinely fun to be around. High Chaparral is hands-down the best adult RV community in Arizona. If you’re looking for sunshine, friendship, endless activities, and memories that will last a lifetime, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to come back!

  • Stacy R.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Tonto Creek Trail RV Park

    Quiet Desert Gem with Beautiful Mountain Views

    We loved our stay at Tonto Creek Trail RV& MHC! From the start, the staff was warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The park is peaceful, clean, and well-maintained—exactly what we were looking for in a relaxing getaway. The location couldn’t be better. Nestled in Tonto Basin, the park is just minutes from Roosevelt Lake, which was perfect for fishing, boating, and soaking in the views. We also enjoyed exploring the nearby Tonto National Forest trails—ideal for hiking and ATV adventures. As pet owners, we were thrilled that pets stay free! The community is very pet-friendly, which made traveling with our furry family stress-free. The grounds are safe and quiet, with beautiful mountain views all around, giving us plenty of space to relax after a day of exploring. Between the friendly community vibe, the great amenities, and the unbeatable location, this is a hidden gem in Arizona. We’re already planning our next trip back to Tonto Creek Trail RV—highly recommend it!

Guide to Apache Junction

Camping near Apache Junction, Arizona, offers a mix of stunning desert landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a place to park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Exploring: There are numerous trails for all skill levels. One camper mentioned, “Lace up your boots and conquer one of the park's diverse hiking trails. From challenging climbs to scenic strolls, there's a path for every level and every desire” at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
  • Off-Roading: If you have a UTV or enjoy off-roading, you’re in luck! A visitor shared, “Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts” at the same campground.
  • Fishing and Boating: For those who love water activities, Burnt Corral Campground is a great spot. One reviewer said, “Beautiful waterfront sites and seems like a great spot for fishing and water sports.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. A review from Usery Mountain Regional Park states, “Prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking scenery. Jagged mountain peaks pierce the azure sky.”
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at McDowell Mountain Regional Park noted, “The bathrooms are immaculate, and the staff is friendly and helpful.”
  • Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy having space between sites. One review for Lost Dutchman State Park Campground mentioned, “Spots are close but not too close to each other.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Burnt Corral Campground, have basic facilities. A camper mentioned, “Bathrooms are pit toilets. Pretty smelly but clean and well-stocked.”
  • Cell Service: Be prepared for limited cell service in certain areas. A reviewer at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground advised, “While you're busy conquering the trails, keep in mind that cell service can be limited.”
  • Weather Considerations: Summers can get hot. One camper noted, “It gets a little warm during the summer - after all, it is AZ,” at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and open spaces. A family camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park said, “There are tons of trails and the views are awesome.”
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. One visitor at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground mentioned, “You can launch your boat and then bring it to the campsite for easy access.”
  • Plan for Meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. A camper at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA noted, “The staff were helpful and friendly,” which can be a plus when asking for local dining options.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A reviewer at Canyon Lake Marina & Campground mentioned, “Water hookup and electrical hookup. No sewer.”
  • Road Conditions: Be aware of road conditions leading to campgrounds. One RV camper at Bulldog Canyon Dispersed Camping said, “The road is in the worst condition; we had to turn back.”
  • Respect Quiet Hours: Many campgrounds have quiet hours. A visitor at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA noted, “A bit noisy at night from traffic but almost all campgrounds are.”

Camping around Apache Junction, Arizona, offers a variety of experiences, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best tent camping sites near Apache Junction?

Lost Dutchman State Park Campground offers excellent tent camping with spectacular views of the Superstition Mountains. Located close enough to Apache Junction for supply runs yet far enough to feel immersed in nature. Another great option is Tortilla Campground in the Superstition Mountains, where $12/night gets you water hookups and restrooms with running water. For those seeking a more rustic experience, dispersed camping along Highway 88 provides stunning sunrise and sunset views of the mountains without amenities.

What campgrounds are available in and around Apache Junction?

Usery Mountain Regional Park offers spacious sites about 15 minutes from Apache Junction with desert scenery and mountain backdrops. The campground features water, electric hookups, and a dump station. For more primitive camping, Cottonwood Canyon Rd. Dispersed provides free camping east of Highway 74 between Apache Junction and Florence. This area is popular with off-road enthusiasts. Several other options include Canyon Lake Marina & Campground near Tortilla Flat and Tonto National Forest sites, giving campers a range of experiences from developed facilities to completely undeveloped wilderness.

Where can I find RV parks in Apache Junction, Arizona?

Mesa-Apache Junction KOA is located on the outskirts of Apache Junction and offers all the essential amenities for RVers including full hookups (power, water, sewer) plus a pool and level, clean sites. La Hacienda RV Resort is another excellent option with beautiful trees, a pool and spa, and clean air-conditioned laundry facilities. Additional RV-friendly options in the area include Encore Countryside and Carefree Manor, both offering the amenities RVers expect while staying near Apache Junction.

Are there senior-friendly RV parks in Apache Junction, AZ?

Apache Junction is known for its senior-friendly RV parks that cater to seasonal and full-time older adults. Many parks in the area function as retirement communities with amenities specifically designed for seniors. Look for resorts with accessible facilities, planned social activities, and community spaces. Many offer amenities like shuffle board, pickleball courts, fitness centers, and organized events that appeal to active seniors. Most parks in this area provide level sites with full hookups, making them suitable for longer stays. When booking, inquire about age restrictions, as some parks may be designated as 55+ communities with specific policies.

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