Established camping areas dot the rugged terrain surrounding Apache Junction, with options ranging from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks nestled at elevations between 1,700-5,900 feet. Winter temperatures average 65-70°F during daytime hours while summer months often exceed 100°F, making October through April the most popular camping season. Flash flooding can occur during monsoon season (July-September), requiring campers to check weather forecasts regularly and avoid low-lying areas during storms.
What to do
**Mountain biking trails: Close to Usery Mountain Regional Park with routes from beginner to advanced difficulty. "We absolutely love this campground. Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," notes a visitor to Usery Mountain Regional Park.
**Hiking with desert views: Trails connect directly to campsites at Lost Dutchman State Park. A camper reports, "Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views. Worth every second. Easily our favorite quick camping trip," about their experience at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
**Wildlife observation: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot desert wildlife. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," shares one reviewer after camping at Lost Dutchman.
What campers like
**Spacious campsites: Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables with ample distance between neighbors. "The campground is large and the spots have plenty of space," mentions a visitor to Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
**Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and common areas. One camper at Cave Creek Regional Park noted, "Our camping lot was wide and very clean. The washroom and the shower were very clean. Free hot shower."
**Family-friendly amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer structured activities for children. A camper at Usery Mountain Regional Park shared, "They offer tons of programs for everyone like night hikes and scorpion hunts."
What you should know
**Reservation requirements: Book 3-6 months ahead for winter camping season. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" advises a visitor to Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
**Access limitations: Some campgrounds have gate closing times and rugged access roads. A Cave Creek Regional Park visitor warns, "Nothing on website said gate closes and can't get back in after 9 pm."
**Alternative glamping options: Beyond traditional tents, Apache Junction glamping includes various accommodation styles. At Picacho-Tucson NW KOA, "The sites are close together and not private unless you have a patio site for an extra cost," according to a recent review.
Tips for camping with families
**Activity planning: Pack games for downtime between desert adventures. "Since we could not use the pool we had a game day with corn hole, washers, and ladder ball," shares a family who stayed at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
**Temperature preparation: Bring clothing for extreme daily temperature fluctuations. A visitor to Upper Pinal Campground cautioned, "Please keep in mind that you are at elevation and temperatures drop significantly."
**Safety conversations: Brief children on desert hazards including cacti and wildlife before arrival. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities," mentions a camper at Cave Creek Regional Park, highlighting educational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
**Site selection considerations: Choose appropriately sized spots for your rig. "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 a visitor to Lost Dutchman State Park Campground.
**Ground clearance requirements: Some access roads require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Pioneer Pass Campground reports, "I wouldn't suggest trying to travel up without decent ground clearance. There was a bit of wash boarding and obvious ruts in the road."
**Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary widely between campgrounds. "Sites are clean and most level with mix of electric and non electric," notes a Lost Dutchman State Park Campground visitor about the varying amenity options.
