Dispersed camping options near Cashion, Arizona remain limited due to the urban proximity and land management restrictions. The western edge of Phoenix sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in the Sonoran Desert, characterized by extreme temperature fluctuations between seasons. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 40-70°F, contrasting sharply with triple-digit summer heat that makes camping hazardous from May through September without proper cooling systems.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1-mile trail at White Tank Mountain Regional Park leads to seasonal falls and petroglyphs. "The waterfall only runs after heavy rain... There was water in the 'pool' and it is scenic so it was worthwhile to go despite no running falls. There are restrooms, a picnic area and a playground near this trailhead," notes Lee D.
Star programs: Monthly events offer telescope access and astronomy education. "I've also joined ranger-led hikes here as well as a county-sponsored astronomy night with access to multiple large telescopes and an astronomy presentation. Check the park website for their activities calendar," explains Chenery K.
Hammock lounging: Built-in hammock hooks at Skyline Regional Park provide relaxation spots. "Site D especially has no visible neighbors on either side. Kudos to the city of Buckeye – they could have easily crammed a half-dozen more campsites in this area," writes Lee D., who appreciated the spacious layout.
Wild burro viewing: Morning opportunities near campsites at Lake Pleasant. "Woke up to a donkey eating out watermelon, making donkey noises and rolling on the ground so cute!! Campsites always clean, clean bathrooms, great prices," shares Jeana R. about her unexpected wildlife encounter.
What campers like
Desert winter camping: November-March ideal. "Another Maricopa County parks campground which is great for hiking and relaxing. Very well taken care of. The park has beautiful hiking trails and a great nature center, which offers activities and the regional library," writes Ellen W. about White Tank Mountain.
Urban-accessible trails: Multiple difficulty levels within 30 minutes of Phoenix. "Located at about 203rd Avenue, on the westside of Phoenix, in Waddell Arizona is a tiny little Campground with phenomenal views. There is also a large group campground and a very primitive 'camp ground' available," notes Staci R.
Citrus tree camping: Unique setting at Destiny Phoenix RV Resorts where sites are separated by fruit trees. "Near I-10. Close together spots but orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees everywhere. They have 2 fenced dog runs. Pretty pool and hot tub. People are very friendly and helpful," describes Missy C.
Working farm stays: Fresh produce available at Pinnacle Farms South. "There was a self-serve farm stand where we purchased fresh eggs, dates and homemade zucchini bread. The metro Phoenix area has no shortage of things to do and places to eat... and many are in an easy drive from the farm," explains Sheryl V.
What you should know
Military base proximity: Fighter jet noise affects several campgrounds. "Note there is a nearby air force base and you will hear jets flying by, although this was during daylight hours," mentions Lee D. about White Tank Mountain Regional Park.
Seasonal crowds: Winter reservation requirements especially January-March. "This park would be a 5 star plus if it wasn't for the amount of people and the price for a rv site in a county park," George K. notes about popular winter camping periods.
Cell coverage variations: Provider-dependent service. "If you use Verizon, there is little or no signal most of the time," warns Castaway I. about Skyline Regional Park, while most other areas report good coverage.
Cholla cactus hazards: Pet owners beware on trails. "Didn't do any others as 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," cautions Teresa A. at White Tank Mountain Regional Park.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible trails: 0.6 mile paved option for strollers and wheelchairs. "There is a short (.6 mile) ADA-accessible trail. Horseback riding and mountain biking are also activities although we saw neither in our two days at this park," mentions Lee D. about Skyline Regional Park's inclusive options.
Educational centers: Combined library-nature centers offer kids' activities. "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," Ellen W. describes at White Tank Mountain.
Dog-friendly camping: Multiple parks offer pet amenities. "It was a great place to take our dogs (on leash, of course). We had nice strolls around the farm. They got to see chickens, cattle, rabbit and a farm dog (all calmly viewed by our guys and at a respectful distance)," explains Sheryl V. at Pinnacle Farms.
Farm experiences: Agricultural camping provides unique learning. "Camping out in tent with fire going next to Lemmon trees. Stove and sink to cook and clean up showers to wash up and bathroom. Hot water in shower. We just made lemonade. Oases in the desert," shares Melanie S. about her family's experience at Leaf Verde RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Outside loop preferred at developed campgrounds. "I stayed in site 29, on the top of the far side of the loop on the one way drive in. I was a few hundred yards from the restroom facility on a back in space which outlooked toward the desert entirely," advises Crystal C.
Water conservation: Limited facilities at some parks require planning. "There is no water. Neither potable or non-potable," Castaway I. warns about Skyline Regional Park, emphasizing the need for water supplies.
Military discounts: Significant savings at Luke AFB Famcamp for eligible campers. "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.
Full hookup availability: Variable options across the best places to camp near Cashion. "The campground itself is very clean, including the restrooms and showers. It is quiet and the campsites all have electric and water hookups, picnic table and fire pit. Sites are far enough from each other so it doesn't feel crowded," Ellen W. describes about White Tank Mountain.
