Camping sites near Avondale, Arizona range from primitive desert settings to full-service resorts. Located in the Sonoran Desert at approximately 955 feet elevation, the area experiences summer temperatures frequently exceeding 110°F during July and August, making late fall through early spring the optimal camping seasons. Most campgrounds in the region maintain clean facilities despite challenging desert conditions.
What to do
Desert hiking trails: White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers numerous hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels. "Some hiking trails are within walking distance of the campground, others you will need to drive to. Maricopa trail runs through the park," notes Ellen W., who appreciates the well-maintained trails. The park's most popular trail is the waterfall trail, which requires driving to the trailhead.
Stargazing opportunities: The desert sky provides excellent night viewing despite proximity to Phoenix. "Fantastic park for seeing the stars and getting away from Phoenix city lights," writes Chenery K. about White Tank Mountain. Some parks even host special astronomy events, as one camper mentions: "I've also joined county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation."
Educational activities: Several campgrounds host nature programs and guided tours. "The park has an excellent nature center, great hiking, archaeology and good water/power hook-ups," shares Marc about White Tank Mountain Regional Park. Skyline Regional Park also offers educational opportunities with "ranger-led hikes here (Black Rock Loop for sunrise hikes)."
What campers like
Desert landscaping: The unique Sonoran Desert environment features iconic saguaro cacti. "Super clean trails with amazing views and saguaro cacti for days," writes Michelle W. about her experience at White Tank Mountain. Another camper describes it as a "lush desert campground" that is "quiet and well run."
Fruit trees: Destiny Phoenix RV Resorts features citrus trees throughout the property. "Near I-10. Close together spots but orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees everywhere. They have 2 fenced dog runs. Pretty pool and hot tub," reports Missy C. The trees provide both shade and fresh fruit depending on the season.
Farm camping options: Pinnacle Farms South offers a working farm experience. "We anticipated having a wonderful stay at Pinnacle Farms and we weren't disappointed. Our 19' trailer was in a quiet, private spot next to a large grassy area sometimes used for canine agility. It was lovely walking along rows of pomegranate, citrus, dates with beautiful South Mountain as a backdrop," writes Sheryl V. The farm also has a self-serve stand where campers can purchase fresh eggs and produce.
What you should know
Aircraft noise: Luke Air Force Base operations affect several campgrounds. "This park is on the flight path for an airbase and can get noisy but the amenities far outweigh the short bursts of noise," explains Peg C. about Pueblo El Mirage RV Resort. Similarly, at Skyline Regional Park, a camper notes it's "under a flight path for Luke Air Force Base, and I had several noisy jets pass overhead just as I was settling in for the night."
Pet restrictions: Some properties have strict animal policies. "Don't even apply if you have a 'mixed' dog," warns Jeff H. about Cotton Lane RV Resort. "We went through the extensive application to stay a night and then called back and were told we could not have a reservation because our dog was 'mixed'...if our dog was a purebred Lab she would be permitted."
Limited water access: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. At Skyline Regional Park, one camper cautions: "There is no water. Neither potable or non-potable." They also advise to "bring lots of water. Though there are fresh water stations around, the water seemed to have an odd taste to me."
Tips for camping with families
Look for educational facilities: Several parks have nature centers ideal for children. "The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities and the regional library. There are a couple of playgrounds in the park as well," writes Ellen W. about White Tank Mountain. These facilities provide learning opportunities and activities during hot afternoons.
Consider lake access for summer visits: Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers water activities to beat the heat. "Great campground with full hook ups and bathrooms. Close to town still but far enough out makes it great," notes Chris P. Another camper adds, "All kinds of water sports and rentals. UTV trails are great."
Watch for wildlife encounters: Desert camping includes meeting local animals. "Woke up to a donkey eating out watermelon, making donkey noises and rolling on the ground so cute!!" shares Jeana R. about Lake Pleasant. Families should also be vigilant about desert hazards: "Our dog had an encounter with a stray cholla ball. This would be the only concern for those traveling with pets. There are quite a few loose even along trails."
Tips from RVers
Military discounts available: Service members have specialized options. "Great place to stay if your military active or retired. Clean and well maintained. Right next to the commissary and AAFES. Bathhouse is excellent. Laundry is free," reports Luis G. about Luke AFB Famcamp.
Confirm reservation policies: Some parks have extensive application processes. Multiple campers note varying reservation experiences, from simple self-pay systems at farm stays to detailed applications at certain RV resorts. One RVer mentions: "I called twice to get a confirmation and never did get one."
Check laundry facilities before arrival: Quality varies considerably between properties. "1/2 the Laundry machines did not work with card. Had choice of 8 quarters per load or card. I had plenty of cash if they'd had a change machine, but they didn't," notes Cindy I. about her stay at Destiny Phoenix, suggesting bringing quarters if laundry will be needed.
