RV campgrounds in Buckeye, Arizona provide varying levels of accessibility to the Sonoran Desert landscape at elevations around 1,000 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F between June and September, creating significant seasonal differences in camping patterns and availability. Most parks near Buckeye feature gravel pads with paved interior roads designed to accommodate large rigs while minimizing dust.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Pleasant: The Pleasant Harbor RV Resort provides access to one of the few large bodies of water in the region. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort... Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site)," notes Robert G., who mentions boating opportunities. Margaret T. adds: "RV camping on big water in Arizona! We have stayed here a couple of times. Make sure to book a spot up on cliff overlooking the water. Great sunsets. Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp."
Citrus picking in winter: At Destiny Phoenix RV Resorts, seasonal fruit trees provide a unique activity. "Near I-10. Close together spots but orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees everywhere," according to Missy C. Another camper, Cindy I., confirms this natural amenity: "Very neat with orange trees."
Golf access: The Pueblo El Mirage 55+ RV Resort incorporates an on-site golf course. "This is a self described 5 star RV long stay park. It has Almost every amenity you can think of. The park is slowly being converted to all homes. 18 hole golf course on site and a bar and grill," reports Randall Z.
What campers like
Spacious dog areas: The Sonoran Desert RV Park receives consistent praise for its pet facilities. "Although I was just spending one night on my way home I was so surprised to find the most amazing K-9 Park ever. 3 separate secure areas with large grass areas in two of them. My pup had so much fun. They have water, toys and baggies readily available," writes Melinda R. Another camper mentions: "We stayed in a deluxe pull-through for two days. Our site has a small fenced-in play area for our mutt."
Clean facilities: Hygiene standards are frequently highlighted in reviews. At Sonoran Desert RV Park, one camper states: "The shower house and laundry were newer, had plenty of room, and were very clean." Another notes: "Very clean and well laid out spots- with space."
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities, with varying quality. Jen H. notes about Leaf Verde RV Resort: "The pool is refreshing and if you aren't into swimming there is a pool table, dog park and shuffle board to keep you busy." Another family appreciated this amenity: "Pool was a great bonus for our family after a long day of driving."
What you should know
Age restrictions: Several parks near Buckeye enforce strict age policies. A reviewer at Encore Paradise RV explains: "'At least one person travelling and staying in any unit must be able to show proof of age 55 or older.' This is not a traditional campground in any way- it is a beautiful, amenity filled and active adult activity park of a five star level. Minimum requirements for RV size and class are strictly adhered to."
Breed restrictions: Some parks enforce pet policies beyond standard rules. At Cotton Lane RV Resort, Jeff H. reports: "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'. We were actually going to drop the dog off with family in Phoenix, but were told if we even enter the gates with the dog in our truck they would cancel our reservation. BTW, our dog is half Lab, half rhodesian ridgeback."
Seasonal considerations: Winter months attract "snowbirds" while summer sees dramatically lower occupancy. "Leaf Verde is in Buckeye, AZ which is only 30 minutes from Phoenix. The pool is refreshing and if you aren't into swimming there is a pool table, dog park and shuffle board to keep you busy," mentions Jen H., highlighting activities available year-round.
Tips for camping with families
Evaluate park atmosphere: Many rv campgrounds near Buckeye cater to older adults. Vinay M. warns about Sunflower RV Resort: "55 and older resort. Not sure how to rate it, but it should be listed somewhere that it's not family friendly."
Consider laundry facilities: Family trips often require laundry access. Mikki S. appreciated the facilities at Leaf Verde: "We stopped here on our way westward and it was just what we needed. Although the sites are a bit close to each other than we prefer, the amenities were very well taken care of. The laundry facility was one of the nicest we've ever used!"
Check noise factors: Transportation corridors impact some parks. At Sundial Mobile & RV Park, Cheri H. notes: "There's a train that goes by at least five times a day and night and a freeway just a few blocks away. So it's not super quiet, however, the noise hasn't really bothered me either."
Tips from RVers
Larger rigs need specific sites: Buckeye-area rv campgrounds vary in their capacity to accommodate big rigs. Dawn F. from Leaf Verde RV Resort explains: "Easy to get to from the 10 freeway, good sized RV park w decent sized sites, park is kept clean, pool, Pickleball courts, cornhole area, dog park, huge laundry room, and the people are nice. Regular pull through spots are kind of like buddy spots as your doors face each other. Back in and deluxe sites are decent sized. Roadways are asphalt and large enough to maneuver bigger rigs through."
Check shower access policies: Some parks maintain restricted shower facilities. D37 explains about Destiny Phoenix RV Resorts: "Clean restrooms, pools, grounds, roads, sites. Nice folks working there. Refundable $20 deposit to get bathroom key."
Confirm office hours for services: Limited staffing affects service availability. At Destiny Phoenix, Cindy I. found: "Staff very helpful when we came to help us park, but office & store were closed at 3pm on a Saturday. Couldn't get supplies or change for laundry."
