Glamping near Casa Grande offers a unique blend of comfort in the Sonoran Desert. Located in central Arizona at an elevation of 1,398 feet, this area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F and mild winters with daytime highs in the 60s and 70s. Winter nights can drop below 40°F, making October through April the most comfortable camping season for visitors.
What to do
Desert hiking: 15 miles of trails at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground provide access to the iconic Superstition Mountains. "Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," reports Rebecca G.
Scenic mountain biking: Multiple difficulty levels available at Usery Mountain Regional Park with trails ranging from beginner to advanced. "Close to everything, including some awesome Mountain Biking from green to double black diamond trails," notes Marty P.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk optimal times to spot desert creatures and birds. "Desert beauty surrounds you with beautiful plants, some Saguaros, Yuca, Agave," according to one visitor at Picacho-Tucson NW KOA.
Visit nearby attractions: Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch is just 10 minutes from Picacho-Tucson NW KOA. Jeffrey P. mentioned, "Clean camp with full hookups. We stayed here to get away and visit Rooster Cogburns Ostrich farm. That was fun."
What campers like
Spacious sites with desert landscaping: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA offers well-maintained camping areas with native vegetation. "So many beautiful desert plants, some Saguaros, Yuca, Agave… Really lovely, clean KOA with awesome wifi," says Sophia.
Proximity to Phoenix metro area: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA provides convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a desert camping experience. "Location is about 45 minutes from Phoenix, which was perfect for us. We spent a little time in old town Scottsdale as well which is about the same distance," shares Sarah M.
Mountain views from campsites: Sites at Lost Dutchman State Park face the impressive Superstition Mountains. "Highly recommend this park with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix," writes Terri D.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Usery Mountain Regional Park offers modern amenities. "Restroom and shower facilities were clean. You won't get a 'dark sky' night here, but the light noise from Phoenix makes for beautifully silhouetted saguaro cacti," notes Janet H.
What you should know
Train noise affects some campsites: Picacho-Tucson NW KOA experiences periodic train noise. "Stay for a couple nights on the way up from Tucson. It was perfect and quiet except the trains which is not the fault of the facility," mentions Meagan B.
Light pollution limits stargazing: Being close to Phoenix affects night sky visibility. "The only downside is the light pollution at night being so close to Phoenix," observes Julie F. about her experience at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
Weekend reservations require planning: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Do consider reserving a spot with ample time, they tend to get booked really quick especially during the winter time," advises Jose G.
Some campgrounds have age restrictions: Before booking, check if there are age limitations. "I did not stay here because this is a 55 and older community. Seems strange to have it on an app like this," warns Nathan B. about Sun Life RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Mesa-Apache Junction KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "The KOA features a year round heated pool and jacuzzi. The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills," describes Krista Z.
Consider noise levels when selecting sites: Some areas can get noisy with children playing. "The sites by the playground and clubhouse area are noisy during the day with children playing as children do," notes Nicholas P. about Picacho-Tucson NW KOA.
Look for designated tent areas: Palm Gardens RV Resort and other nearby campgrounds may offer specialized tent camping sections. "Loved the designated tent area. Everything was in great condition and the staff were extremely friendly and helpful," shares Christie N.
Plan for temperature extremes: Desert camping requires preparation for both hot days and cold nights. "It'll be hot during the day and very cold at night depending on the time of year," warns a camper about the regional climate.
Tips from RVers
Reserve premium sites when available: Some campgrounds offer enhanced RV spaces. "You can even upgrade to a pavilion space which has a grill and sink to use," suggests Riley B. who stayed at Mesa-Apache Junction KOA.
Choose level sites for easier setup: Most gravel sites require minimal leveling. "Our site #48 Buckhorn was really spacious and private. Great views all around. Table and fire pit," reports Julie F.
Consider road conditions when selecting campground: Some access roads have limitations. "Roads are narrow and there are unforgiving drop offs on the sides," cautions Terri D. about certain areas in Lost Dutchman State Park.
Use dump stations on departure day: Facilities are available at most developed campgrounds. "Nice dump station on the way out too," mentions Chris P. about the convenient services at Usery Mountain Regional Park.
