Best Campgrounds near Carefree, AZ

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Carefree. Carefree is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Carefree. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Carefree, Arizona (245)

    1. Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground

    64 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $15 - $300 / night

    "We stayed in late September and had no neighbors next to us so we felt like we were in the desert. There was no direction that had a bad view."

    "It was an great way to be exposed to trails I may not have chosen on my own."

    2. Cave Creek Regional Park

    15 Reviews
    Cave Creek, AZ
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-0431

    "This is another great park in the Maricopa County Parks network, very similar to Estrella or White Tanks in design and layout, in north Cave Creek/Carefree area (take 32nd Street north from Carefree Highway"

    "Surrounded by homes but for its proximity to town its sunset views are fab. Close to a Frys and Home Depot. My onlllly reason for 4/5 stars is the surrounding homes have very noisy dogs."

    3. McDowell Mountain Regional Park

    19 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 506-2930

    $32 / night

    "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails. Even the overflow area where we had to spend a couple of nights has a very nice bathroom and shower."

    "No sewer, however electric and water are available and conveniently located. NO shade however and in the summer it is HOT! Desert surround's and lots you singing coyotes at night and early morning!"

    4. Stardust trailer park

    5 Reviews
    Carefree, AZ
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (480) 800-2654

    $70 / night

    "I brought my car on the trip but didn’t need it as I biked and walked mostly everywhere."

    "Stardust Trailer Park in Cave Creek, Arizona, is a hidden gem worth raving about!"

    5. Bartlett Flat

    15 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 595-3300

    "If you want to be more secluded keep following the shore line NW, however the more you travel the more ground clearance you’ll need so bring a vehicle with a little off road abilities of you want to be"

    "Great place to get a little bit off road but not really get too off road…."

    6. Pleasant Harbor RV Resort

    18 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 235-6140

    "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."

    "We keep a boat at Lake Pleasant and are part of the Arizona Yacht Club so we are up here all the time."

    7. Tonto National Forest Riverside Campground

    9 Reviews
    Rio Verde, AZ
    16 miles
    Website

    "We got a spot walking distance from the river. Awesome Fishing spots and day camp spots to spend time all day in the water. Then you can just walk back to camp and make dinner relax."

    "In Tonto National Forest Close to Phoenix located near Bartlett Reservoir Fire Rings and Picnic Tables at some sites next to Verde River below Bartlett Dam"

    8. Pioneer RV Resort 55+

    7 Reviews
    Anthem, AZ
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (623) 465-7465

    $39 - $543 / night

    "While out-running a winter storm in Northern Arizona we headed South."

    "I’m not real keen on high occupancy parks but I wanted to stay near Phoenix - just not in Phoenix. Here to attend my grandsons graduation. Close to major shopping and restaurants. Extremely quiet."

    9. Cave Creek Group Site

    3 Reviews
    Carefree, AZ
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (480) 595-3300

    $150 / night

    "Great place to get away from he city and enjoy a little nature. We had a great time sitting around the fire and looking at the stars. Great hikes nearby too to enjoy."

    "Our site had a view of a trail where we watched equestrians ride by sporadically throughout the evening. We saw some snakes, coyotes, and other wildlife."

    10. Maddock Road Dispersed - AZ State Trust Land

    10 Reviews
    Peoria, AZ
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (602) 542-4631

    "The further off carefree you get, the more solitude you’ll find. It’s been pretty windy (25-30mph gusts) which causes a lot of dust but it’s gorgeous and warm during the day, even in January."

    "Numerous campsites available in an area along State Road 74 and New River/Lake Pleasant Roads, at least 2 or 3000 acres with hundreds of establish campsites."

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Showing results 1-10 of 245 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Carefree, AZ

954 Reviews of 245 Carefree Campgrounds



Guide to Carefree

Camping near Carefree, Arizona, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning desert landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Biking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Campers rave about the hiking opportunities, with one reviewer from Lost Dutchman State Park Campground saying, "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."
  • Off-Roading: If you have a UTV or enjoy off-roading, Lost Dutchman State Park Campground is a great spot. A visitor shared, "Dust off your UTVs and get ready for a blast! The washboard washes offer thrilling rides for off-road enthusiasts."
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One camper noted, "We stayed at Lake Pleasant for 2 weeks... There are lots of great trails for hiking in the park."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the breathtaking views at Point of Rocks RV Campground. One happy camper said, "Nestled in the Dells, we had a spot that backed up to the rocks that we were able to easily climb up each night and watch the sunset."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer from Houston Mesa Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms are well-maintained and clean, ensuring a comfortable stay."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the spacious sites and friendly staff at Usery Mountain Regional Park. One family shared, "The camp hosts are incredibly friendly and helpful, adding to the welcoming atmosphere."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground, lack showers and have limited water access. A visitor noted, "No hot water in bathrooms. No showers."
  • Noise Levels: Be aware that some campgrounds can be noisy. A camper at White Spar Campground mentioned, "Quite a bit of highway noise."
  • Cell Service: If you need to stay connected, check the cell service availability. A reviewer from Houston Mesa Campground said, "While Verizon service isn't optimal, it's manageable."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with ample space for kids to play. A family at Usery Mountain Regional Park appreciated the "ample space at each campsite, allowing us to park comfortably and spread out."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes and hiking gear to keep everyone entertained. One camper at McDowell Mountain Regional Park said, "Gorgeous views, very spaced out sites, and access to great mountain biking and hiking trails."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food and drinks on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Verde Ranch RV Resort mentioned, "The staff is outstanding," which can help if you need assistance during your stay.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookup Availability: Make sure the campground has the necessary hookups for your RV. A reviewer from Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground noted, "Water and electric... but no beach for swimming."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some RV parks can be tight. A camper at Verde Ranch RV Resort said, "Sites tight, extremely close to one another."
  • Plan for Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, consider campgrounds further from highways. A visitor at Point of Rocks RV Campground mentioned, "The best sites are in the back farther from the highway."

Camping near Carefree, Arizona, has something for everyone, from stunning views to family-friendly activities. Just remember to check the amenities and plan accordingly for a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Carefree, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, Carefree, AZ offers a wide range of camping options, with 245 campgrounds and RV parks near Carefree, AZ and 59 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Carefree, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Carefree, AZ is Lake Pleasant Regional Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 64 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Carefree, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 59 free dispersed camping spots near Carefree, AZ.

What parks are near Carefree, AZ?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 parks near Carefree, AZ that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.